One of the main draws of restaurants, bars, and clubs is the kind of alcoholic beverages they offer. Establishment owners can make a killing all year round if they have a variety of liquor-based drinks on their menu. Customers will always want beer, wine, or a cocktail to accompany their food. Many patrons will also simply order their drink of choice more than once while they are at the restaurant or bar.
Because of this, dining and drinking establishments in Florida should always prioritize applying for, getting, and renewing their Florida liquor license before it expires. And to get this crucial permit so that you can serve alcohol in your establishment, you need to prepare these 7 important requirements and documents:
- Application forms.You can visit the Department of Business & Professional Regulation or DBPR’s website to download the necessary liquor permit application forms. Make sure you fill the form honestly and completely. Keep in mind that if you will be opening a new restaurant, you have to apply for a liquor license. In case you bought or have taken over an existing restaurant, apply to have the liquor license transferred to you.
- A food service plan review. A food service plan review has to be submitted by owners of:
- New restaurants
- Remodeled restaurants
- Re-opened restaurants that have been closed for at least one year
- Restaurants that have been converted from another use
This document has to be submitted to the DBPR for approval. If you will be opening a new restaurant, it is best that you submit the plan prior to construction to avoid costly modifications.
- Employer Identification Number (EIN). All businesses must obtain an EIN or tax ID number. This is one of the main requirements you have to submit to get a liquor license.
- An inspection report. In Florida, all restaurants are required to pass a safety and sanitation inspection before opening. The DBPR is also the government agency responsible for issuing an inspection certificate. You will have to schedule an inspection with them.
- Sales tax registration.Similar to an inspection report or certificate, you should also have a sales tax registration number or proof of exemption issued by the Department of Revenue before formally opening your restaurant.
- Other county and local requirements.Depending on your location, you may also have to submit other requirements and permits such as:
- Health department permit
- Flammable materials permit
- Certificate of occupancy
- Sign or signage permit
- License fees.Lastly, you will have to pay a license fee based on the type of food service operation you have and the number of seats in your establishment. To get an idea of the amount you will have to pay, you can use the DHR website’s food service fee calculator.
Once you have all these requirements, you can start with the whole process of applying for or renewing your liquor license.