Getting your New York liquor license is more than just filling out forms.
One wrong move can cost you months of lost revenue — or your license altogether. If your business relies on a liquor license to generate revenue, this may not be something to try and cut costs with a DIY approach or non-attorney consultant.
1. Incomplete or inaccurate application
One missing document, wrong or missing information, or outdated records can cause delays or even force you to re-file and start over.
2. Bad floor plan designs or diagrams
Improper measurements, unlabeled or unclear layouts, or prohibited configurations lead to rejections from the SLA. The SLA has strict requirements on how diagrams must be laid out, labeled and sized.
3. Ignoring local rules and procedures or community impact
Even if you pass preliminary SLA review, zoning or municipal/community board objections can block your opening. Oppositions may be filed against the issuance of your license by members of the public, community groups or government agencies. Without proactive outreach, nearby residents and businesses may oppose your application.
4. Misjudging the 200- and 500-foot rules
Get the distances wrong, or failure to file within the required time period after the former operator closes its doors for business, and you could be denied a temporary permit or a final license or be limited to a beer and wine license.
5. Overlooking required disclosures
Failing to disclose an old violation or arrest record — even if unrelated — can kill your application. There are often required stipulations and disclosures that must be made but are not included in the basic application. Lack of knowledge is not a defense for failure to disclose – what you don’t know can “kill” your legal compliance and jeopardize your business.
6. Waiting until the last minute
The SLA process can take months – sometimes more than a year. Delay filing, and your opening day may come and go without a license and the ability to make, serve or sell alcoholic beverages.
How to Avoid These Pitfalls
Work with an attorney experienced in New York liquor licensing. I guide business owners through the process, anticipate problems before they arise, and keep applications moving so you can have your license when you need it.
Tracy Jong is a Senior Attorney at Evans Fox LLP with 30 years of experience focusing her practice in business law, intellectual property and licensing for alcohol and cannabis. Tracy Jong is a member of the New York Bar and is a registered attorney at the United States Patent and Trademark Office. She can be reached at [email protected].
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The content has been prepared for informational purposes only; it should not be construed as legal advice, does not create or constitute an attorney-client relationship, and readers should not act upon it without seeking professional counsel.