There is a lot of nightlife to be had in El Paso, Texas, which has prompted many people to open establishments, from upscale nightclubs and restaurants to dive bars in artsy areas. To sell alcohol, though, businesses must first comply with state and local regulations. The first thing any establishment wishing to sell liquor must do is obtain the proper licenses or permits from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC). This process is very in-depth, though, and sometimes people need help applying.
TABC License RequirementsÂ
In order to apply for licenses and permits to sell alcohol and alcoholic beverages in Texas, there are certain criteria applicants must meet. They can be found through a local TABC office or online.
Age Requirements
The applicant for any of the permits must be of the legal drinking age. In Texas, and the United States as a whole, this is 21 years old.
Selling Interests
Businesses can only apply for a Texas liquor license or permit under one tier of what is known as the three-tier system. The three tiers are:
- Retail Permits — Applies to individual Texas establishments, such as restaurants or bars that serve alcohol on-premise, and liquor stores that sell hard liquor, beer, wine, or other alcoholic beverages for off-premise consumption directly to customers.
- Manufacturing Permits — Applies to companies that make and then sell beer, wine, or other alcohol to another business.
- Distribution Permits — Applies to those who import the beverages in large quantities and then sell them to a local business for resale.
Criminal History
While convicted criminals are not barred from obtaining a liquor license in Texas state, the convictions must be old. By Texas law, that means no felonies within a 5-year period preceding the application. Additionally, the applicant should have no convictions or be under suspicion of violations of moral turpitude within 6 months preceding the application date.
Navigating the Process
Whether you are looking to complete your application for the first time or are renewing an existing one in El Paso, navigating the TABC licensing process can be challenging. Here are some things you will need to keep in mind when completing your TABC permit paperwork.
Supporting Documents
It is better to be overprepared than underprepared in this instance. Make sure you check with a local office to ensure exactly what you need. This could include insurance paperwork, zoning permits, floor plans, and menus, for starters. Make copies of all the necessary documents in advance.
AIMS Onboarding
AIMS is short for Alcohol Industry Management System and is the online platform for applying for a TABC license or permit in the State of Texas. It can help outline everything you’ll need.
Public Hearing Appearance
To obtain your license to sell alcohol in Texas state, and especially in El Paso, you may need to appear at a public hearing if someone protests your application. Here, you will be given a chance to defend your chance to receive a license or permit.
Obligations as a TABC License Holder
One of the main requirements as TABC license or permit holder is that you conduct business in good faith. That means once you are licensed, you must ensure customers meet the legal drinking age and know when someone is too intoxicated to keep serving.
Most TABC license or permit holders are required to display the appropriate signs in a place that is visible to the public. The exact signs you might need depend on the type of permit you are applying for. If you have questions about this, it’s important to reach out to the TABC office for clarification.
Additionally, the TABC has restrictions against allowing illegal activities onsite in Texas where alcohol is present, such as drug use, prostitution, or gambling.
Violations of any of the above rules can result in risk — such as revocation or suspension — to an existing TABC license or permit in El Paso. If a business, such as a restaurant, is found to be selling alcohol without the proper license or permit, it can be barred from ever obtaining a license or permit in the future.
Let Us Guide You
Texas TABC applicants sometimes need help completing their applications. Monshaugen & Van Huff, P.C. has multiple services to help navigate the process and help you learn the ins and outs, whether you are applying in El Paso, Austin, San Antonio, or other Texas cities. Just contact us today to get started.