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What is the legal process for obtaining a liquor license in New York?

Picture of Chris Battis By   ·  1 minute read

In New York, obtaining a liquor license requires following a specific legal process. The New York State Liquor Authority (NYSLA) oversees the issuance of liquor licenses.

To obtain a liquor license in New York, an applicant must follow these steps:

  1. Determine the appropriate liquor license type. There are several types of liquor licenses in New York, including on-premises licenses, off-premises licenses, and manufacturing licenses. Each license has different requirements and restrictions.
  2. Complete the application. The NYSLA provides a standard application form for liquor licenses. The application includes personal information about the applicant, information about the business and its location, and details about the intended use of the license.
  3. Submit the application and fees. The application and fees must be submitted to the NYSLA along with supporting documents, including a certificate of incorporation or business registration, a lease or deed of the property, and a menu if it is an on-premises license.
  4. Background investigation. The NYSLA conducts a background check on all applicants, including criminal history, credit history, and business history.
  5. Public notification. The NYSLA is required to notify the public of the application by posting a notice on the premises and in a local newspaper.
  6. Approval or denial. The NYSLA will either approve or deny the application based on the information provided and the background investigation.

It is important to note that there are potential limitations or exceptions to the liquor license process, depending on the specific circumstances of each case. For example, certain locations may have restrictions on the issuance of liquor licenses or may be subject to zoning laws that limit the issuance of these licenses.

If an applicant is denied a liquor license, they can appeal the decision through an administrative hearing process. It is recommended that an applicant seeking a liquor license seek the advice of a licensed attorney to guide them through the process and ensure that they are in compliance with all legal requirements.