Running a bar or restaurant in New York City requires a valid liquor license. If your license gets suspended, it can have serious consequences for your business. You won’t be able to serve alcohol during the suspension, which can lead to a loss of customers and revenue.
Understanding why your license was suspended and what steps you can take to resolve the issue is key. This guide explains the common reasons for suspension, what happens during the process, and how you can get back on track.
Common Reasons for Liquor License Suspension
The New York State Liquor Authority (SLA) enforces strict regulations for businesses that serve alcohol. If you violate these rules, your liquor license can be suspended. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Selling Alcohol to Minors – If your establishment serves alcohol to anyone under 21, even by mistake, you can face fines and a suspension.
- Excessive Noise or Complaints – If your business causes frequent disturbances or receives repeated complaints from neighbors, it could be considered a public nuisance.
- Failure to Pay Taxes or Fees – Unpaid state taxes or licensing fees can result in immediate suspension.
- Illegal Sales or Fraud – Selling alcohol without a license, fabricating documents, or making false statements on your application can lead to severe penalties.
- Criminal Activity on Premises – If your bar or restaurant becomes a place for drug deals, violence, or other criminal acts, the SLA can suspend your license.
- Health and Safety Violations – Failing health inspections, overcrowding, or unsafe conditions can lead to temporary or permanent suspension.
What Happens When Your Liquor License Is Suspended?
When the SLA decides to suspend a liquor license, they will send an official notice to the business owner. This notice outlines the reason for the suspension, the length of time, and any fines or penalties you must pay.
During the suspension, you must stop selling alcohol immediately. If you continue serving drinks, you risk having your license permanently revoked. You may also face additional fines or even criminal charges.
For minor infractions, suspensions can last a few days or weeks. More serious violations can lead to months-long suspensions or permanent revocation. In some cases, you may be given the opportunity to pay a fine instead of serving a suspension, but this depends on the nature of the violation.
Can You Fight a Liquor License Suspension?
Yes. If your liquor license is suspended, you have the right to challenge the decision. You can request a hearing before the SLA, where you’ll have the opportunity to present evidence and argue your case.
An experienced liquor license attorney can help you build a strong defense. They can argue that the violation was a misunderstanding, that corrective measures have been taken, or that the penalty is too harsh.
If your business is facing a suspension, it’s important to act quickly. Missing deadlines or failing to respond to the SLA can result in automatic penalties.
How to Get Your Liquor License Back
If your license was suspended, there are steps you can take to reinstate it:
- Pay Any Fines or Fees – If the suspension is due to unpaid taxes or licensing fees, paying the balance may allow you to reinstate your license.
- Fix the Problem – If the suspension was due to noise complaints, underage sales, or health violations, take corrective action immediately. Train staff, improve security, or make necessary repairs to comply with regulations.
- Request a Hearing – If you believe the suspension was unfair, you can request a hearing to appeal the decision.
- Wait Out the Suspension – In some cases, you may simply have to serve the suspension period before your license is reinstated.
Preventing Future Suspensions
The best way to avoid liquor license issues is to follow all laws and regulations. Here are some tips to keep your license in good standing:
- Train staff to check IDs carefully and refuse service to minors.
- Maintain a safe and orderly environment in your establishment.
- Pay all required taxes and licensing fees on time.
- Monitor noise levels and respond to complaints quickly.
- Keep detailed records of alcohol sales and compliance measures.
Get Legal Help With Rodriguez Law
A liquor license suspension can be a major setback for any bar or restaurant. Understanding the reasons for suspension and knowing your options can help you respond effectively. If your liquor license is at risk, consulting with a liquor license attorney can help you take the right steps to protect your business.
If you’re facing a suspension and need legal help, call Rodriguez Law at (212) 960-3305 for a consultation. We can guide you through the process and help you fight for your business.