How to Obtain a One Day Liquor License in California
If you are holding an event in California and plan to serve liquor, you may need a one-day liquor license to comply with state licensing regulations. These regulations apply to nonprofit organizations such as charities, fundraising organizations and social clubs. Failure to obtain a license prior to the event can result in a fine up to $1,000 and a jail term up to five years. The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control administers one-day licenses. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Download and print an application form for a one-day liquor license from the ABC website.
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Complete the application form. You must include specific details about the event and the people responsible for the event. The property owner must sign the form to grant authorization. In addition, local law enforcement must also endorse the form if you're hosting an event in a public space, using a venue for the first time, holding a casino night or hosting a large number of people. The department has discretion over this requirement, so if you have doubts about any of these conditions, consult the ABC before submitting your application.
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Submit your application and fee to the ABC district office. Refer to the application form to figure out the fee for your event. You can pay by cashier's check or money order payable to the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. You must submit the application no less than 10 days before an event, but no more than 30 days before the event. See the first page of the application form for a list of ABC district offices.
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Tips & Warnings
If your organization is applying for a one-day liquor license for the first time, you need pre-approval from the ABC. Submit IRS documents that show your tax ID number and tax exempt status.
If you are holding an outdoor event, you must complete and submit form ABC-253, which includes a detailed diagram.
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- Photo Credit beer in beer-mug image by Witold Krasowski from Fotolia.com
