Applying for a permit is a multi-step process, but the Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) is here to answer your questions and provide the forms, information, and assistance you need.
Below is a brief overview the steps in the application process:
1. Decide what permit you need: Review the permit guides and permit overview list on this webpage, or take our permit identifier quiz to help guide you to the appropriate permit.
2. Begin an on-line application: Create an e-License account and start an on-line application for an "Off-Premise Permit (LIQ-OFF)."Fill out the application and upload the documents required. (Our application instructions contain more information about what documents are necessary.)
NOTE: You will need to obtain signatures from your local town clerk and zoning officer.
You will additionally need: a sketch of your premise that shows the layout; photos of the completed and fully furnished interior; and photos of the trade name sign taken from across the street or highway. The permittee and every member of the backer will also need a personal history form.
- Grocery: You will also need photos of your stock and at least one month’s worth of grocery sales.
- Caterers: You will need a sample contract and sample menu.
3. Submit the application: After completing the on-line application, you will submit it and pay the $100 non-refundable application fee.
4. DCP review and permit fee: Your application will be reviewed by DCP staff for completeness. If there are any issues with your application or the documents submitted, you’ll receive a notice that explains what needs to be fixed. DCP staff will also email you the invoice for your permit fee.
5.Complete Liquor Law Education Program: New applicants must complete our Liquor Law Education Program. Once completed, applicants must submit a PDF of their certificate to eLicense.
View Program Instructions
6. Placard Notice: Once your application is deemed complete, DCP will email you a template for a placard notice. You must have a placard made that you will post on the curb outside your premises, and you will submit the placard notice back to the department as proof that you completed the public notification process. It takes about two months to fully complete these steps. This step is required under state law to notify the public that a liquor permit is pending at your business; members of the public have the right to object to your liquor license.
- Caterer: No placard requirement.
7. Provisional permit: If you wish to operate with a provisional license, your application will next be submitted for provisional approval by the Liquor Control Commission or their designee. You may use the provisional permit even if your placard is not yet completed. If approved, you will be sent a provisional license and may now begin selling and serving alcohol on a provisional basis. If your provisional permit is not approved for any reason, a Liquor Control Agent will be assigned to help you address any concerns. (Note that a provisional permit is optional; you do not need a provisional permit.)
- Caterer: No provisional allowed
8. Liquor Agent review and inspection: A Liquor Control Agent will be assigned to review your application in depth and check for any issues. The Agent will also schedule a time to meet with the permittee and inspect the premises, and will check that your placard and publication notice were done correctly.
9. Final approval: Once the Liquor Control Agent determines that your application is complete and your premises is ready for a permit, your application will be submitted to the Liquor Control Commission or their designee for approval. If approved, you will receive your permit and can begin to sell and serve alcohol (or continue to serve alcohol if you had a provisional permit already.) If not approved for any reason, your application will be scheduled for an administrative hearing before the Liquor Control Commission.
How long does the application process take?
It takes DCP about 3 weeks from receipt of a completed application to issue a provisional permit. It takes DCP about 3 months to issue a final permit. Any issues with incomplete applications or not completing the placard and publication notice correctly results in delays.