How to get a Liquor License in Delaware?

To obtain a liquor license in the state of Delaware, you must apply through the Office of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commissioner (OABCC). The OABCC is responsible for granting or denying applications for liquor licenses, approving or disapproving requests for modifications to licensed establishments, performing inspections, and granting renewals of liquor licenses. The license fees to make, import, and sell alcoholic beverages are set in §554 of Title 4 of the Delaware State Code. The term and fee for the license vary depending on the license type.

1. Apply for a Liquor License

• Purpose: To legally sell or manufacture alcoholic beverages in the state of Delaware.
• Estimated Cost: The application fee is $1,000.00, which is non-refundable. The fees for different types of licenses vary. Off-premises retail licenses for a store cost $1,000.00, with additional fees for in-store tasting or growler filling. Wholesaler and supplier licenses range from $100.00 to $7,500.00, depending on the type and volume of alcohol. Manufacturing licenses also vary based on the type and volume of alcohol, with fees ranging from $100.00 to $9,000.00.
• Instructions: You need to apply through the Office of Alcoholic Beverage Control Commissioner (OABCC). If your application requires any investigation by the staff or a hearing by the Commissioner, you will need to pay an application process fee of $1,000.00 in addition to any other fees required. For more details, refer to the Delaware Code Title 4, Chapter 5, Subchapter IV.

2. Comply with the Delaware Liquor Control Act

• Purpose: To ensure that you are operating within the legal guidelines set by the state of Delaware.
• Instructions: The person to whom such license is granted may purchase, resell, or dispense alcoholic liquor if the license fee has been paid and the license is still in force. A person licensed under §§ 512 and 516 of this title may purchase product only from an importer licensed by the Commissioner and may purchase up to 20 gallons of product per day from a licensee licensed by the Commissioner for off-premise sales.

Useful Information Sources:

• Office of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commissioner (OABCC)
• Delaware Code Title 4, Chapter 5, Subchapter II
• Delaware Code Title 4, Chapter 5, Subchapter IV

FAQs:

• What is the term of a liquor license in Delaware? Licenses are valid for a period of 2 years, unless stated otherwise by the Commissioner or the title. If a license is issued for a period other than 2 years, the payment rate will be one twenty-fourth of the biannual fee for each month of the term.
• What happens if my application requires investigation or a hearing? If your application requires any investigation by the staff or a hearing by the Commissioner, you will need to pay an application process fee of $1,000.00 in addition to any other fees required.
• What are the penalties for violations against licensed liquor establishments? Penalties imposed by the ABC Commissioner can range from a reprimand, fine, or suspension, to revocation of the liquor license.
• Who can I contact for more information? For any inquiries or requests for information, email OABCCquestions@delaware.gov or call the office at (302) 577-5222.

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