If you want to open a business that sells liquor in Bellville or any surrounding towns in Austin County, you’ll need a liquor license. Here’s how to get one for your business:
The state of Texas has taken extra measures to protect its people by making sure you obtain a license that permits you to sell liquor before you even think of selling. What’s more interesting is the fact that every country in TX has its own process for obtaining a liquor license; the county of Austin is not left out.
If you reside in Bellville, TX and wish to start a business that involves selling liquor, then you need to obtain the liquor license. Obtaining a liquor license can be stressful, but, knowing how lucrative the market is, you shouldn’t be worried about the stress. Instead, focus your mental energy on how you can obtain the permit. Below is how you can get a liquor license in Bellville, TX:
Decide which type of license you’ll need
Liquor licenses come in different types, so you should first identify the type of liquor license you want. If you’re going to sell wholesale, there is a specific license for that. If you want to operate a bar, restaurant, or liquor store, then there are also separate licenses for that. The first thing to do is to visit the website of the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) to start looking around.
Apply for the license
Any person must first apply for the liquor permit at the TABC. The laws of the county require applicants to obtain the TABC prequalification form. After, you will contact the Office of the Clerk to acquire a tracking number. You are required to fill out:
- your full name;
- business name;
- address of the business;
- your contact address;
- email address;
- the type of license you are applying for.
All of this information should be accurate because they are vital. If you input inaccurate information, that can slow down the process considerably.
Get zoning approval
Once you have filled out your application form with every necessary detail, you need to take the form to your city’s map zoning office. There, your business premises will be marked on the map. Afterward, representatives from this office will visit your premises for inspection. Note that all of this won’t happen in one day. It may take days or months before you can finally get the officials to inspect your business area. The reason for zoning is to make sure your business premises are not close to any school. Once your zoning has been completed and approved, your liquor license will be handed over to the county of Austin’s clerk for a signature.
Be mindful of other requirements
Additional requirements may be needed, in addition to the TABC permit. The county of Austin might require you to provide a license to run a food enterprise, public assembly permit, a permit from the police department of Austin, approval by the Austin alcohol control team, or any other permit that may be required of you. All in all, this process is quite time-consuming.
Conclusion
Obtaining a liquor license in Austin County is very complicated, and it takes months for the process to be approved. Keep in mind that if you go against the laws of the county, your license could be revoked. So, while you are waiting for your license to be approved, try to get used to the laws that govern the sale of liquor in Austin County, TX.
