Getting a Liquor License for Your Florida Hotel Bar

A hotel liquor license is mandatory for everyone running a hotel bar in Florida. The liquor licensing requirements in Florida are extremely complex and can deter even the most dedicated of business owners from even attempting to secure one for their hotel bar.

The process involves securing a multitude of approvals and fulfilling numerous requirements. Beverage License Specialists has served businesses across Florida for more than 30 years in getting a liquor license. We’re familiar with the legal hurdles in all sectors of business, from salons to hotels. If you’re curious about the process for getting a liquor license for hotels, continue reading as we provide a brief explanation today.

Liquor Licenses for Hotel Bars in Florida

There are two common liquor licenses for hotels in Florida. These include the 2COP and the 4COP Quota. Each of these licenses grants varying alcohol sales rights. Here is an overview to go over each one and which type of business they’re suited for.

2COP (Beer & Wine only)

The 2COP alcoholic beverage license permits hotels to sell beer and wine, but no liquor, for on-premises consumption. It is the most common since it is easy to secure. However, depending on local regulations, acquiring a 2COP can still be competitive.

4COP “S” (Full Liquor)

The 4COP, series S license, is issued based upon the statutory requirements set forth in Florida Statute 561.20 (2) (a) 1. Based upon the population in the county you are seeking licensure would determine the number of required rooms for transient guests for issuance of the 4COP “S” license. The “S” license also permits the sale of beer, wine & spirits for both on and off premise consumption for your motel or hotel operation..

The Application Process

Applying for an alcohol license in Florida involves many crucial steps that Beverage License Specialists are all too familiar with. For one, you’ll need zoning approval from your local authority. The approval determines whether you can sell alcoholic beverages in your selected location.

After securing zoning approval, we’ll proceed with the following steps when securing a liquor license for hotels.

Getting the Right Documentation and Approvals

Gathering all the appropriate documentation and approvals needed to secure the license. Some of these documents and approvals include a lease or proof of right of occupancy for the premises. We would also gather floor plan sketches and health approvals for the license application.

Completing the Application

It is the Florida Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco which processes applications for liquor licenses. The complete application can be sent to the Division online and/or delivered in person. Alongside your liquor license application, the following documents are usually requested as well:

• Proof of fingerprinting
• Social security number
• A detailed sketch or layout of your business space
• Business registration number
• Arrest disposition, if applicable

It’s important to note that these are only a few of the necessary steps when applying for a liquor license for hotels. Depending on the license, there could be additional steps we’d take care of on behalf of your business.

How Beverage License Specialists Can Help

Our company, Beverage License Specialists, has been helping businesses process hotel liquor licenses for the past 30 years. Owing to this experience, we know what it takes to navigate Florida’s complex alcohol licensing process.

We will help you handle every aspect of the application process. These include processing paperwork and finding approvals. Moreover, we will help you make the application, ensuring you take advantage of important details.

Liquor License for Hotel Bars in Florida

A liquor license permits you to sell alcohol in compliance with state regulations. With it, your hotel bar would avoid fines or even closure. At Beverage License Specialists, we take the stress of obtaining the license off your shoulders.

We use our 3-decades of experience to help you secure the right liquor license. Contact us to learn how we can help you maneuver the hotel liquor license process with ease so you can focus on the important aspects of your business.

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