News Summary
California is set to open its applications for new liquor licenses on September 8, 2025, allowing both on-sale and off-sale general licenses. The process will accept applications until September 19, providing opportunities for new businesses. Applicants must file at local ABC offices, and only one priority application per type will be permitted per county. The application fees are $19,315 for new licenses and $7,320 for inter-county transfers. Applicants are encouraged to file early to avoid delays and will have a chance to recoup fees if unsuccessful in the license lottery.
California will officially open its applications for new liquor licenses starting September 8, 2025, as announced by the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC). The new process will accept applications until September 19, 2025, for both on-sale and off-sale general licenses, providing new business opportunities in the state.
Director Paul Tupy provided an update on the licensing process, emphasizing that applications for new licenses must be submitted directly at local ABC offices situated in counties where these licenses are available. Additionally, priority applications for inter-county transfers will be accepted during the same time frame.
Aspiring applicants should note that only one priority application per type of license will be permitted from each applicant per county. This limitation aims to streamline the process and ensure fairness among applicants seeking to establish or transfer their liquor licenses.
The application fee for a new original general license is set at $19,315, while the fee for a priority inter-county transfer application is $7,320. This pricing reflects the costs associated with processing and reviewing the applications.
Application Process and Requirements
In cases where the number of applicants does not exceed the number of available licenses, applicants will be granted 90 days to complete a formal application following their initial submission. However, if the number of applicants surpasses the licenses available, a virtual drawing will determine those who will proceed in the application process.
To qualify for the drawing, all participants must have been residents of California for at least 90 days prior to the drawing date. Those who are selected in the drawing will receive a total of 90 days to finalize their formal application for their intended business premises.
Unsuccessful drawing participants will be eligible for a refund of their application fee, subject to a $100 service charge, within a timeframe of 90 to 120 days after the drawing. Importantly, unsuccessful applicants will still retain their priority ranking for future applications until August 1 of the following year, giving them another opportunity to secure the necessary licenses.
It’s also worth mentioning that any outstanding debts owed to California taxing agencies may be deducted from the refund amount for priority application fees.
Encouragement for Early Filing
Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications early in the designated period to avoid any delays in processing. Early filing can mitigate potential issues and streamline the overall application experience.
Further Information
The ABC plans to release additional information and detailed instructions on its website in the coming weeks. This will include specific guidelines on how to fulfill the application process effectively, as well as any updates or changes pertaining to the upcoming liquor license application period.
This opportunity will likely attract a significant number of applicants eager to enter the competitive liquor market in California. The forthcoming application period not only aims to regulate new licenses but also supports the growth of local businesses looking to offer liquor sales.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Action News Now
- Wikipedia: Liquor License
- Los Angeles DUI Attorney
- Google Search: California liquor license application
- San Francisco Examiner
- Google Scholar: liquor license California
- Redding.com
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Liquor License
- Daily Journal
- Google News: California liquor license updates
