City Beer and Wine Licenses

A City Beer and Wine License allows certain businesses located in an incorporated city, or within five miles of incorporated city limits, to operate under specific privileges.

This license is commonly used by restaurants, bars, and taverns.

What a City Beer and Wine License Allows

A City Beer and Wine License allows a business to:

  • Serve beer and wine
  • Apply for gambling privileges if the license was issued before 1997
  • Operate between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 a.m.

Beer and Wine License Fees

Fees do not include competitive bid costs.

  • New License Fee: $400
  • Application Processing Fee: $400*
  • Renewal Fee: $200
  • The application processing fee applies only to original applications and does not apply to renewals.

Application Requirements

To apply for a City Beer and Wine License:

  • A license must be available from the state, or you must apply to purchase one from an existing license holder.
  • Your business must be located in a building, or you must plan to operate within a building.
  • Mobile bars are not eligible for licensure.

License Quotas and Availability

The number of City Beer and Wine Licenses available in a city is based on population.

If a city’s population increases and a new license becomes available, the license will be offered through the competitive bidding process.

Learn more about Quota Systems web page view the Quota Sheet for Retail Alcoholic Beverage Licenses (PDF).

Population-Based License Limits

City Beer and Wine License quotas based on city population
Population Licenses Available Additional Licenses
500 or less 1 license None
501–2,000 1 license for every 500 inhabitants Not applicable
More than 2,000 4 licenses for the first 2,000 inhabitants 2 licenses for the next 2,000 inhabitants and 1 license for every additional 2,000 inhabitants

How to Apply

Renewal Requirements

A City Beer and Wine License must be renewed annually by June 30.