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The SLA Solutions team is here to answer any questions you may have in regards to obtaining your liquor license/permit. If you do not find the information that you need on this page, please contact us directly.

Obtaining Your Liquor License

What do I need to get approved?

Accurate and transparent information is key to getting a Liquor License approved. We provide a Master Checklist for the process, describing what information and/or documentation is needed, and who is responsible for addressing each specific item on the list. This Checklist is updated weekly which ensures that all parties are aware of the status in progress and ensures we stay on the correct timeline.

When will I know if my application gets approved?

During the Application Process, the NY State Liquor Authority will communicate with you and copy us on your behalf. Several steps will take place including but not limited to an Application Receipt which is the first indication that the State Liquor Authority has your Application and is beginning the process of examining the submission. If you are eligible for and apply for a Temporary Permit, it is common to receive a Conditional Letter of Approval within a couple of weeks from receiving the Application Receipt. The Temporary Permit will allow you to operate during the actual examination process. Currently, it is taking the State Liquor Authority 5 to 6 months to examine and process Applications to the point of a Final Conditional Letter of Approval.

How much does it cost to get a liquor license?

The actual fee for a Liquor License varies by class and location. For example, the class for a Full On Premise Liquor License (which includes liquor, wine, beer and cider) is more expensive than an On Premise Restaurant Wine License (which includes wine, beer and cider only). Additionally, each class of license is then divided into geographic areas by city/local, so the licensing fees for New York City are more expensive than let’s say Buffalo, Niagara Falls or Utica. Suburban fees are the most reasonable.

I have a new business, when should I apply for my license?

Based on the current timeline we are experiencing with the NY State Liquor Authority it is suggested that an Initial Consultation take place during your planning stages. There are many decisions that need to be made and knowing the rules and correct process will assist you in making successful choices.

The SLA Process

What is the first step I should take?

Several factors need to be considered before a Liquor License can be applied for.

  • Which of the myriad of License Classes best suits your business plan?
  • Which Corporate structure, if any will be used? Liquor licenses are not mobile, so a physical location is needed.
  • Does the location you have chosen comply with the 200 Foot Rule or 500 Foot Rule?

We will guide you through these choices so you will not enter into a situation that would result in your Application being denied based on these answers.

Your first move should be to schedule a consultation with our team so we can learn more about your business. Click here to book online.

How long does it take to get a liquor license?

There are many variables that you need to consider to correctly answer this question. Currently, the timeline with the State Liquor Authority to issue a new License from the point of submission can take quite some time even if there are no Deficiencies in the Application. A Deficiency is a question that the Liquor Authority has regarding answers on the Application, and waiting to receive a Deficiency Letter not only slows the process but correcting the issue can be timely and frustrating. Knowing HOW to answer the questions is key. There are several steps that can be taken to expedite this process and help to ensure that you receive your license as soon as possible. That is what SLA Solutions does best.

Why is SLA Solutions different?

SLA Solutions is a Full Time, Full-Service Liquor License Consulting Firm. This is all we do. We have a dedicated staff of professionals who deal in hundreds of applications every year, providing the experience and expertise needed to meet the ever-changing processes and requirements of obtaining a NY State Liquor License. We work hand in hand with you and/or your Attorney/Accountant to complete an accurate and complete application each and every time. We are fully insured and bonded, having an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.
Founded over 10 years ago, we have assisted in thousands of different applications for licenses and permits.

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