Liquor license costs in New York depend on whether you need an on-premises or off-premises license. On-premises licenses allow customers to consume alcohol at the establishment, while off-premises licenses apply to places that sell alcohol for take-home consumption.
Off-Premises Liquor License Costs
- Grocery Store Beer License: Around $500 (varies by location count)
- Drug Store Beer License: About $600
- Liquor Store License: Ranges from $1,800 to $4,300 based on county population
- Wine Store License: Between $1,700 and $3,200, depending on the county
On-Premises Liquor License Costs
- Tavern Wine License: $4,000 to $6,800, influenced by location and population
- Restaurant Wine License: $1,280 to $2,000
- Hotel Liquor License: About $4,400
- Club Liquor License: $800 to $2,000, based on membership size
- Restaurant Brewer License: Approximately $3,000 to $6,000
Additional fees may apply, such as filing fees ($100-$200) and renewal costs every one to three years, typically matching the initial license fee.
How To Apply for a Liquor License in New York
Step 1: Determine the Right License Type
New York offers different licenses depending on the type of alcohol sold and the nature of the business. If you choose the wrong license, you may have to restart the application process.
For instance, a liquor store requires an L-222 license, while a grocery store needs an A-122 (beer only) or AX-128 (beer and wine) license. Some licenses have specific eligibility requirements, such as age restrictions and residency.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Each application requires multiple documents, including:
- Certificate of Authority for sales tax collection
- Business registration documents
- Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)
- Lease or deed for your business location
- Premises diagram
- Personal questionnaire
- 30-day advanced notice to the local municipal board
- Background checks for owners and partners
Local authorities may request additional documentation, so check with the New York State Liquor Authority (NYSLA) and your municipal government.
Step 3: Check Zoning Laws
Your business must comply with zoning restrictions. Under the 200-foot rule, licenses are not issued to businesses within 200 feet of a school, church, synagogue, or place of worship.
Another restriction, the 500-foot rule, limits the number of liquor licenses issued within a 500-foot radius. However, exceptions can be granted, especially in high-density areas.
Step 4: Submit the Application
Applications are available on the NYSLA website. Be thorough, as errors can lead to delays or rejections. The application will ask for:
- Business details
- Ownership and location information
- Alcohol sales plans
- Operating hours
Fees must be paid upon submission. Review everything carefully before sending your application.
Step 5: Wait for Approval
The NYSLA reviews applications, which may involve inspections or hearings. If approved, you will receive your license and can begin operations.
Current wait times range from 22 to 26 weeks (5 to 7 months). If issues arise, the process can take even longer. To help businesses open sooner, New York has introduced temporary retail permits that allow sales while waiting for final approval.
Compliance and Common Pitfalls
Staying compliant with state liquor laws is necessary to avoid fines and keep your license. Some common violations include:
- Selling alcohol to minors (ensure employees check IDs properly)
- Not maintaining accurate transaction and inventory records
- Failing to comply with zoning laws or operating hours
Regular staff training and careful record-keeping can help prevent these issues.
Recent Updates to NY Liquor Laws (2025)
New York has made several changes to its liquor laws in 2025, including:
- One-day liquor sales permits (previously limited to beer and wine)
- Temporary permits for alcohol wholesalers
- No longer requiring wine and liquor stores to be at street level
- Allowing liquor sales in movie theaters
- Extending “to-go” alcohol sales for five more years
- Allowing businesses to apply for a license and notify their municipality simultaneously
- Outdoor catering permits for alcohol sales
These updates provide more flexibility for businesses and allow for expanded liquor sales in different venues.
Need Help With Your Liquor License Application?
Getting a liquor license in New York takes time, money, and careful planning. Mistakes in your application can cause long delays, and failing to follow state laws can result in hefty fines or losing your license. If you need help with your application or have questions about New York liquor laws, Rodriguez Law is here to assist you. Call (212) 960-3305 today to get started.