How to Acquire a Liquor License for the Restaurant Industry in Florida

Introduction to the Liquor License for the Restaurant Industry in Florida

Restaurant business owners in the state of Florida know that one of the ways to gain an advantage in the industry is to be able to serve all types of alcohol at their establishment. Although some restaurants choose to serve beer and wine only, having a license to be able to serve all types of alcoholic beverages provides a competitive advantage and may make the difference in having a customer become a regular.

Obtaining a liquor license for the restaurant industry in Florida can be a complicated process. Beverage License Specialists can walk new and existing restaurant owners through the entire process of obtaining a Florida liquor license, taking out the guesswork and confusion.

Why Restaurants Need This License

It’s no secret that customers prefer to be able to order any type of drink while dining at an establishment. It’s up to the restaurant owner to make sure the business in compliance with the applicable state requirements and municipal ordinances concerning the sale and service of alcoholic beverages. Beverage License Specialists stands ready to guide and assist you in making sure your business remains compliant.

Steps in the Process of Getting a Liquor License for the Restaurant Industry in Florida

The application process for a liquor license in Florida requires complete and proper documentation and acknowledgment of specific criteria. Beverage License Specialists will assist you in making sure you meet the requirements and gathering all of the required documentation.

If your licensing requirements result in the need to purchase a license, the broker service at Beverage License Specialists will assist you to buy an existing license with great care and assistance. Otherwise, if you qualify for a Special Food Service License, Beverage License Specialists will work together with you in preparing and processing the application for the timely issuance of your new license. To follow is a list of some of the steps necessary to obtain issuance of your liquor license.

Meet licensing criteria. Beverage License Specialists assists with determining which license you are eligible to obtain by reviewing your business operation information and informs you of options available for the requirements of licensure as well as any needed changes before you proceed.
Gather the required documents. A volume of documentation, including business, health and zoning approvals, needs to be obtained before a liquor license application can be processed and the license issued. Beverage License Specialists will make sure you have all the necessary and required documents on the list.
Complete application and fees. The team at Beverage License Specialists walks you through any associated costs and helps you finalize the application process.
Purchase an existing license. Beverage License Specialists is your one-stop-shop for licensing since our broker service includes a comprehensive process for purchasing a current license for a seamless and trouble free transition.

Determine the type of alcoholic beverage license for your establishment.
Type of alcoholic beverage license

2COP (Beer & Wine only)
4COP SFS (Special Food Service License f/k/a SRX). This license enables you to purchase & sell beer, wine & liquor if you meet ALL three of the below requirements. These may change depending upon the county or municipality where the restaurant is located.

1. 2,500 s/f of gross floor area
2. The ability to serve 150 patrons at one time. This will be shown on your occupancy load and the number of seats contained in your Permanent Food Service license.
3. 51% or greater of your gross revenue must be derived from the sale of food and non-alcoholic beverages.
4. 4COP Quota—This license enables you to purchase and sell Beer, Wine and Liquor with none of the SFS license requirements.

Main requirements

Find the right location. Find a location that is properly zoned for a 2COP, a 4COP SFS, or a 4COP Quota license.
File for Plan Review with the Division of Hotels & Restaurants for a Permanent Food Service License. Or, if a takeover of an existing restaurant with no changes, then file a change of ownership.
File for a Sales Tax Number with the Florida Department of Revenue. If a takeover of an existing restaurant operation, you will need the Department of Revenue Clearance on the transfer of the license.
Include a copy of your lease for proof of the Right of Occupancy.
The hours of operation are regulated by the local municipality having jurisdiction over your location.
Each of the officers/directors/shareholders of the applicant entity will need to be disclosed with fingerprints and personal questionnaires. If an LLC, then the Managers, Managing Members and Authorized Members need to be disclosed with fingerprints and personal questionnaires.

Why Choose Beverage License Specialists

Acquiring a liquor license in Florida can be a lengthy and confusing process, but Beverage License Specialists provides help all along the way. If you are ready to start the process or have any other licensing needs, contact Beverage License Specialists today.

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