Definition

Noun: A liquor license is an official permit or authorization granted by a government authority that allows the holder (typically a business) to legally sell alcoholic beverages.

Usage

A liquor license is a specific type of business license. It is required for establishments like bars, restaurants, hotels, and retail stores to sell alcohol for consumption on the premises (on-trade) or to take away (off-trade). The requirements and types of licenses vary by jurisdiction.

Examples

• The new restaurant had to apply for a liquor license before it could serve wine and beer.
• The city council revoked the bar's liquor license after repeated violations of serving hours.
• Obtaining a liquor license can be a lengthy and expensive process for small business owners.

Advanced Usage

• "To hold a liquor license": To be the legal possessor of such a permit.
  • The corporation holds the liquor license for all of its franchise locations.
• "Liquor license application/hearing": Refers to the formal process of requesting or disputing the granting of this permit.
  • The neighborhood association attended the liquor license hearing to voice their concerns.

Variants and Related Words

• Liquor licence: The British English spelling.
• Alcohol license: A more general term that may encompass licenses for beer, wine, and spirits.
• On-license / Off-license: Specific types of licenses in some jurisdictions. An permits consumption on the premises (e.g., a bar), while an permits sale for consumption elsewhere (e.g., a liquor store).

Synonyms

• Alcohol permit
• Beverage license
• Tavern license (specific to bars/taverns in some regions)

Related Terms and Concepts

• Regulatory compliance: Adherence to the laws governing the sale of alcohol.
• Licensee: The person or entity to whom the license is issued.
• Revocation/Suspension: The act of a government authority taking away or temporarily invalidating the license due to legal violations.

Noun

1. a license authorizing the holder to sell alcoholic beverages