Guide To Florida's 4COP (Quota) Application

Having the correct licensing is essential for the success and compliance of your business. In Florida, a 4COP (consumption on premises) or quota license is required to sell beer, wine, and liquor. They are limited in each county based on population. For example, the state makes available for issuance through the liquor license lottery a new license for every 7500 persons living in a county. There are various steps in the application process, so it is important that you comply with all government regulations to ensure you can optimize your drink sales and build a high valuation for your business.

At Beverage License Specialists, our goal is to facilitate the process and ensure you complete each step within the allotted timeframe. We will help you collect the required documentation, pass the licensing process, and make the application process as seamless and painless as possible.

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Essential Pre-Application Steps and Eligibility Requirements

If you plan to apply for a 4COP Quota license, you must ensure your business and the license itself meet specific regulatory standards. Unlike standard permits, 4COP Quota licenses are limited by county population and are typically acquired through the open market or a state lottery. This license allows you to sell beer, wine, and spirits for both on-premises consumption and package sales (carry-out).

Before beginning the application process, please ensure you meet the following criteria:

Acquisition of License: You must either win a license in the annual Beverage District lottery or, more commonly, purchase an existing license from a current holder within the same county.
Zoning Approval: You must provide certified documentation from your local municipal or county zoning department proving that the specific location is approved for the sale of distilled spirits.
Health & Safety Compliance: The premises must pass an inspection by the Division of Hotels and Restaurants (if food is served) or the Department of Health (if no food is served).
Background Clearance: All interested parties (owners, officers, and shareholders) must pass a background check and submit fingerprints to the DBPR.
Financial Disclosure: You must be prepared to show a “Right of Occupancy” for the location (such as a lease or deed) and disclose the source of funds used to purchase the license.

Required documents must be available:

Owners FEIN and SSN
Arrest disposition records (Certified)
Sketch of the location to be licensed
Get fingerprinted from an approved Livescan Device Vendor
Pay the applicable fee.
Submit application.

We suggest you start early, as the process can be lengthy and complex. Approvals may take a while.

Mastering the 4COP Quota Drawing Process

Though the drawing process is random, being prepared with the required documentation is not required to apply for a license in the liquor license lottery. The drawing takes place typically from mid-August through the end of September (45 days). Winners are chosen on a county-by-county basis and can only be associated with one application entry per county. Having an expert in your corner to ensure you are in compliance within your time frame is an investment in your and your company’s future success.

Your Path to Florida’s 4COP Quota Success

Florida’s 4COP application can take time and diligence. Not applicable. We can help. Contact our friendly and professional experts at Beverage License Specialists for a free consultation to see how we can help.

Contact Beverage License Specialists

Address: 1015 NW 9th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311

Office Phone: 954-369-5858

Toll Free: 800-523-7651

Fax: 954-727-9001