What are the different types of California retail liquor licenses?

California Retail Liquor Licenses: A Breakdown

California has a complex system of retail liquor licenses, with different types catering to various business models and locations. Here's a breakdown of some common categories:

1. On-Sale Licenses:

* Type 20 (Restaurant License): Allows the sale of alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises, typically in conjunction with food service. This is the most common license for restaurants and bars.

* Type 21 (Public Assembly License): Permits the sale of alcohol at events like sporting events, concerts, and conventions. It's often held by venues or event organizers.

* Type 41 (Dispensary License): Allows the sale of cannabis products, including cannabis flower, concentrates, edibles, and topicals.

* Type 47 (Microbrewery License): Grants a brewery the right to sell its own beer for on-site consumption at its brewery.

* Type 53 (Small Winery License): Allows a winery to sell its own wine for on-site consumption at the winery.

* Type 61 (Limited Winery License): Grants wineries the right to operate a tasting room and sell their own wine by the bottle.

* Type 64 (Limited Brewery License): Allows breweries to operate a tasting room and sell their own beer by the bottle.

* Type 71 (Limited Distillers License): Grants distilleries the right to operate a tasting room and sell their own spirits by the bottle.

2. Off-Sale Licenses:

* Type 21 (Retailer License): Permits the sale of alcohol for consumption off-premises, typically found in liquor stores and grocery stores.

* Type 60 (Limited Retailer License): Allows the sale of wine or beer by the bottle from a retail location with restrictions on the quantity and types of alcohol sold.

* Type 70 (Limited Spirits Retailer License): Allows the sale of distilled spirits by the bottle from a retail location with restrictions on the quantity and types of alcohol sold.

3. Other Licenses:

* Type 01 (Manufacturer License): This license is for companies that produce alcoholic beverages, including breweries, wineries, and distilleries.

* Type 02 (Wholesaler License): Allows the distribution of alcoholic beverages to retailers.

* Type 03 (Importer License): Grants the right to import alcoholic beverages into California.

* Type 04 (Distributor License): Allows the distribution of wine to retailers.

Important Notes:

* Each license type has specific requirements and restrictions regarding the sale of alcohol.

* Licensing fees vary depending on the type of license and the location.

* Some licenses require a bond, which acts as financial protection in case of noncompliance.

* Obtaining a California liquor license can be a complex and time-consuming process.

For accurate and up-to-date information, please consult the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC): [https://www.abc.ca.gov/](https://www.abc.ca.gov/)

It is always recommended to consult with a legal professional for guidance on California liquor licensing regulations.