Alcohol License Guide: Steps, Costs & Tips

If you’re thinking about opening a bar, restaurant or hosting an event that serves drinks, the first thing you need to sort out is an alcohol licence. Without it, you can’t sell beer, wine or spirits legally, and you could face heavy fines. This guide walks you through what’s needed, how much it costs and where most people slip up.

Key Requirements for Getting a Licence

The process starts with the local municipality. You’ll fill out an application form that asks for details about your business – address, type of venue, opening hours and who will be in charge of serving alcohol. Most places also need to show a floor plan that marks where the bar area is, how many seats you have and how you’ll control access for minors.

Next up is a background check. The authorities look at any criminal record related to violence or drug offences. If you’ve been convicted of a serious crime, getting a licence can be tough.

You also need to pay the application fee. In South Africa the cost varies by province and venue size, but expect anywhere from R2 000 to R10 000 for the initial paperwork. After approval there’s an annual renewal fee that can be similar or higher, depending on your sales volume.

Finally, you’ll have a health and safety inspection. Inspectors will check that your premises meet fire codes, have proper ventilation and that drinks are stored safely. Once they sign off, the licence is issued and you can start serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One big mistake is forgetting to display the licence prominently. The law says it must be visible at the bar or service area; hiding it can lead to fines or suspension.

Another slip-up is not training staff properly. All employees who serve alcohol need a responsible service certificate. Skipping this step not only breaches regulations but also puts your customers at risk.

Many owners underestimate the paperwork timeline. Applications can take 4‑6 weeks, sometimes longer if there are objections from nearby residents. Start early and keep track of every document you submit.

Lastly, don’t ignore changes in your business. If you expand seating, change opening hours or move to a new location, you must update the licence. Failing to do so can result in penalties.

Getting an alcohol licence isn’t rocket science, but it does need attention to detail. Follow each step, keep records straight and train your team well, and you’ll avoid most headaches. With the right paperwork in place, you can focus on what matters – serving great drinks and giving customers a good time.