Myths About Obtaining A Liquor License For Your Business
Being able to legally serve alcohol to your patrons can help to give your restaurant a valuable source of additional revenue. However, there are many people that are simply unaware of the realities that are involved with having this privilege. Therefore, many restaurant owners will find themselves surprised by the process of applying for a liquor license. This risk can be greatly reduced if some frequently held myths about liquor licenses are dispelled.
Myth: Obtaining A Liquor License Only Involves Paying The Licensing Fee
It is a common assumption for individuals to assume that a liquor license will only involve paying a fee. However, many communities will strictly regulate the ability of restaurants to serve alcohol. As a result, the process of applying for one of these licenses can be far more involved. In addition to paying these fees and submitting the required paperwork, you may also have to go through a public hearing before the licensing board votes on whether or not to approve your request.
Myth: There Are No Special Liabilities That Come With Serving Liquor
It is a reality that liquor can have a profound impact on a person's senses and judgment. As a result, there is typically a responsibility for restaurants to avoid allowing patrons to become excessively intoxicated. In fact, it can be possible for these businesses to be held liable for damages that patrons suffer as a result of being over-served. For this reason, it is advisable for any business that serves liquor to invest in insurance to cover these liabilities and to develop a rigorous training program for the staff.
Myth: A Liquor License Is Permanent
Due to the fact that the process for obtaining a liquor license is extensive, many business owners will assume that this license will be permanent once it is awarded. However, it will be necessary to regularly renew this license by paying the appropriate fee to the licensing board. Furthermore, if it is determined that your enterprise is violating the terms of the liquor license, you may have it revoked. To ensure compliance, it is common for the alcohol licensing board to regularly investigate businesses by sending undercover representatives to attempt to violate the liquor laws. A common example of this will be underage individuals attempting to purchase alcohol. These investigations place further importance on the need to ensure that all of your staff members undergo regular training regarding the best practices for selling liquor to patrons.
For more information, contact a local liquor licensing company like Arizona Liquor Industry Consultants.
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