Applying for a liquor license in Austin, Texas involves a multi-step process. First, you need to create an account and complete the application process in the State of Texas' Alcohol Industry Management System (AIMS) provided by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC). The AIMS platform allows you to manage your profile, add authorized users, and start the application process for licenses and permits. It also provides a Needs Analysis Wizard to help you decide which license or permit is right for your business. You can view a list of requirements for your application, save your work and return to it later, upload supporting documents directly into AIMS, and submit forms, electronic signatures, and secure payments online 24/7. Remember to use Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge to access AIMS as it's not compatible with other browsers. For more detailed information on how to best use AIMS, you may consult this online guide published by the TABC.
After submitting the AIMS application through TABC, you need to call the Office of the City Clerk at (512) 974-2210 to obtain a tracking number for the City Clerk's signature. You must provide your complete address, business name, applicant name, contact person's name, contact phone number, contact email address, and liquor license type. The Zoning department will notify the Clerk’s office once zoning is approved, and the Clerk's office will notify you of approval. Once zoning is approved, set an appointment to obtain the city clerk's signature through the TABC Packet calendar, email the application to city.clerk@austintexas.gov, or mail in the packet to P.O. Box 1088, Austin, TX 78767.
The type of license you need depends on your business. For example, a Brewer’s License (BW) for manufacturing malt beverages, a Winery Permit (G) for manufacturing wine, a Distiller's and Rectifier's Permit (D) for manufacturing distilled spirits, and various permits for distribution and retail. Each license or permit has specific authorizations and conditions. You can apply online using AIMS, or submit a paper application. However, paper applications will take considerably longer to process. The application process includes completing an Initial Application (Form L-IA), Required Certifications (Form L-CERT), and specific Business Entity Forms (L-C, L-LLC, L-P) depending on your business structure. Additional forms may be required depending on the specific license or permit. All forms and further details can be found on the TABC website.
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