How to get a Liquor License in Colorado?

To obtain a liquor license in the state of Colorado, you must apply through the state’s Liquor Enforcement Division. Colorado operates on a dual licensing authority, meaning that retailers and special event permittees must first obtain license approval at the local government level. The process generally involves demonstrating the neighborhood's needs and desires for each new liquor license, and undergoing a background investigation. The state offers various types of licenses and permits, and the process can take three to four months or longer.

1. Determine the Type of License Needed

• Purpose: The type of license needed depends on the nature of your business. The state offers various types of licenses and permits including the Liquor Retail License, Liquor Supplier License, Retail Establishment Permit, Bed & Breakfast Permit, Special Event Permit, Liquor Sales Room Application, Festivals License, and Takeout/Delivery Permit.
• Instructions: You can review the different types of licenses and permits available on the official website of the Colorado government.

2. Apply for Local Government Approval

• Purpose: As Colorado operates on a dual licensing authority, retailers and special event permittees must first obtain license approval at the local government level.
• Instructions: Contact your local government office for instructions on how to apply for approval. This typically involves demonstrating the neighborhood's needs and desires for each new liquor license.

3. Undergo a Background Investigation

• Purpose: The local government or the Liquor Enforcement Division will conduct a background investigation of the individuals involved with a retail liquor license application. This is to ensure the applicant's suitability to hold a liquor license.
• Instructions: Be prepared to provide information for a review of your criminal history, liquor license violation history, ownership interests in other liquor industry members, and tax payment history.

4. Apply for a State Liquor License

• Purpose: After obtaining local government approval, you must apply for a state liquor license through the Liquor Enforcement Division.
• Instructions: You can apply for a state liquor license through the official website of the Colorado government.

Useful Information Sources:

• Colorado Liquor Enforcement Division
• City of Boulder Customer Self Service Portal
• Larimer County Clerk and Recorder

FAQs:

• Do I need to be a U.S. citizen or a Colorado resident to acquire a license? No, you don't need to be a U.S. citizen or a Colorado resident to acquire a license.
• Does a criminal record automatically disqualify me from obtaining a liquor license? No, a criminal record doesn't automatically disqualify you, but you must provide evidence of rehabilitation.
• How long does the process take? The process generally takes three to four months or longer.
• Who conducts the background investigation? The local government will usually conduct an initial background investigation of the individuals involved with a retail liquor license application. However, an exception exists for chain stores or entities with multiple liquor licenses throughout the state. In such cases, the Liquor Enforcement Division conducts the individual's background investigation.

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