How to get a Liquor License in North Dakota?

To obtain a liquor license in North Dakota, you need to complete several steps, including submitting various application forms, providing personal information of key personnel, submitting a floor plan of the area to be licensed, and providing inspection reports and ownership documentation. The process may vary slightly depending on the specific city within North Dakota.

1. Submit State Retail Alcoholic Beverage License Application

• Purpose: This is the primary application for obtaining a retail alcoholic beverage license in North Dakota.
• Estimated Cost: The cost varies depending on the type of license applied for.
• Instructions: Complete and submit the “Application for a State Retail Alcoholic Beverage License” (SFN 11066) at least four to six weeks before you wish to start selling alcoholic beverages. The form can be found here.

2. Submit Personal Information Form

• Purpose: This form provides personal information about any owner, manager, officer, director, shareholder, member, governor, or partner.
• Instructions: Fill out the “Personal Information Form” (SFN 10866) and update it every five years or whenever there is a change in these positions. The form can be found here.

3. Submit Alcoholic Beverage Floor Plan

• Purpose: This plan provides the dimensions of the area to be licensed.
• Instructions: Submit an “Alcoholic Beverage Floor Plan” (SFN 14985). The plan can be found here.

4. Submit Township Board Consent Form (if applicable)

• Purpose: This form is required if you are in an organized township.
• Instructions: Complete and submit the “Township Board Consent” form (SFN 14337). The form can be found here.

5. Provide Inspection Reports and Ownership Documentation

• Purpose: These documents verify the safety and ownership of the premises to be licensed.
• Instructions: Provide a copy of the most recent health inspection report and fire safety inspection report for the premises to be licensed, a copy of the purchase agreement or lease agreement, and documentation verifying the ownership of the entity applying for the license.

6. Apply for City-Specific License (if applicable)

• Purpose: Some cities, like Bismarck and Minot, require their own specific licenses.
• Instructions: Apply for a city-specific license if required. For example, in Bismarck, you can apply for an Alcohol Beverage License online or by mail. In Minot, you can find the Alcoholic Beverage Sales License Application here.

Useful Information Sources:

• North Dakota Attorney General's Office Licensing and Gaming
• City of Bismarck Alcohol Permits & Licenses
• City of Minot Liquor Licensing

FAQs:

• How long does it take to process the license application? You should submit the required application forms at least four to six weeks before you wish to start selling alcoholic beverages.
• How often do I need to renew my license? Licenses must be renewed annually by December 31st. Late renewals will incur an additional reinstatement fee. Licenses not renewed by the last working day in February are considered expired and cannot be renewed.
• What if I live outside of North Dakota or was born outside of the United States? Additional instructions and documentation will be required.

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