Understanding Liquor Licensing for Bona-Fide Eating Establishments in Los Angeles County.

California Liquor License

Opening a restaurant in Los Angeles County can be an exciting endeavor, but navigating the liquor licensing process can be daunting. Understanding the type of liquor license you need for a bona-fide eating establishment is crucial for serving alcohol legally in Los Angeles County. Here’s a guide to help you understand the requirements and process for obtaining the right liquor license for your establishment.

California Eating Establishment Liquor License

Type 47 License:

For a bona-fide eating establishment in Los Angeles County, the most common liquor license is the Type 47 license. This license allows for the sale of beer, wine, and distilled spirits for consumption on the premises of a bona-fide eating place. To qualify for a Type 47 license, your establishment must meet certain criteria:

  1. Food Sales Requirement: Your establishment must have a full kitchen and derive at least 51% of its gross annual sales from the sale of meals.
  2. Seating Requirement: Your establishment must have enough seating to accommodate at least 35 guests at a time.
  3. Operating Hours: Your establishment must be open to the public and serving meals during normal meal times.
  4. Good Moral Character: The owner(s) of the establishment must demonstrate good moral character and pass a background check.

Application Process:

To apply for a Type 47 license in Los Angeles County, you will need to follow these steps:

  1. Complete the Application: Obtain an application from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) and complete it with all required information.
  2. Submit Required Documents: Along with your application, you will need to submit documents such as floor plans, menu samples, lease agreements, and financial statements.
  3. Public Notice: Publish a notice of your intent to apply for a liquor license in a local newspaper. This notice must run once a week for four consecutive weeks.
  4. Background Check: The ABC will conduct a background check on all applicants to ensure they meet the requirements for a liquor license.
  5. Local Approval: You may need to obtain approval from the local city or county government before your application can be processed by the ABC.
  6. ABC Review: The ABC will review your application, background check, and any other relevant information before issuing a decision.

Obtaining a liquor license for a bona-fide eating establishment in Los Angeles County requires careful planning and adherence to state and local regulations. By understanding the requirements and following the application process diligently, you can increase your chances of obtaining the right liquor license for your establishment.