How to Get a Liquor License

Getting a liquor license is an important step if you plan to sell or serve alcohol in Mumbai or anywhere in Maharashtra. Whether you want to open a bar, run a restaurant, or start a wine or beer shop, you must follow the legal process set under the Bombay Prohibition Act, 1949. Without the right license, selling, storing, transporting, or even consuming liquor can lead to penalties.

This guide helps you understand how to get a liquor license, the types of permits available, the cost, documents needed, and the complete application process. It’s written in simple language so anyone starting a new business can follow it easily.

Why You Need a Liquor License

Any place that sells or serves alcohol needs a valid license. Restaurants, hotels, bars, pubs, and clubs fall under this category. Shops that sell sealed bottles for home consumption also need an off-license.

The license helps the government regulate alcohol sales, ensure safety, and maintain legal compliance.

Types of Liquor Licenses in Maharashtra

Liquor licenses in Mumbai and Maharashtra are mainly divided into two groups: wholesale and retail. Types have their own purpose and rules

1. Wholesale Liquor License

This license allows the holder to store and sell duty-paid liquor in bulk. The main categories under this include:

Wholesale wine license (for trade and import) License for storing and supplying duty-paid country liquor License for wholesale foreign liquor

To get this license, the applicant must submit a request to the Commissioner through the district Superintendent. The warehouse location and storage space must meet the rules in the Act.

2. Retail Liquor License

This license allows selling liquor directly to customers. Different types include: Permit Room License Club License Beer Shop License Mild Liquor and Wine Bar License Wine Bar License Wine Shop License Each license has its own use. For example: If you want to open a beer shop in Maharashtra, you need the Beer Shop License. For a wine shop in Mumbai, you need a Wine Shop License (prices vary by area and demand). Restaurants serving alcohol need a Permit Room License.

Approval Rules for Liquor Licenses

Section 34 – Vendor's License

The government grants this license if the applicant meets all norms. Conditions include:

Maintaining stocks in approved godowns Paying all storage and supervision costs

Section 35 – Hotel License

Hotels can apply for this license to serve foreign liquor to permit holders staying or eating at the hotel.

Conditions include: Alcohol cannot be served in common public spaces The hotel must have trained staff The license holder must cover supervision costs of excise officers

Liquor License Renewal

Most licenses in Mumbai are valid for one year and must be renewed before they expire. Apply for renewal at least 30th days before expiry.

Documents needed: Original license Application form with a fee stamp Payment challan Tax clearance certificate Partnership deed (if applicable) Address/ownership proof

Step-by-Step Process: How to Get a Liquor License in Mumbai

Step 1: Get a Court Fee Stamp

Purchase a court stamp of ₹10 from any court or the Asiatic Town Hall near the Collector Office.

Step 2: Visit the Permit Office

You can apply at: Old Customs House, Fort, Mumbai or Regional excise offices in: Malvani (Malad) Andheri Bandra Chembur

Step 3: Collect the Application Form

The form is free. You can collect it directly from the office authorities.

Step 4: Fill in Your Details

Enter: Name Age Date of Birth Occupation Address

Step 5: Attach the Court Stamp

Affix the ₹10 court fee stamp to the form.

Step 6: Submit the Application

Submit your form with: Photographs Photo ID Address proof License fee (varies by license type)

Documents Required for Liquor License

Application addressed to the Excise Officer Treasury receipt of ₹2000 (lifetime permit) or ₹200 (annual permit) Aadhaar Card Age proof Address proof

Liquor License Fees in Maharashtra

Here is the general fee structure: ₹15,000 for a temporary club or party permit (above 100 guests) ₹10,000 for parties with fewer than 100 guests ₹13,000 for an FL-4 license for private parties in flats or resorts ₹5,44,000 for a permit room license (bars in restaurants) ₹1,50,000 for beer shops

Note: Wine shop license price in Maharashtra and beer shop license cost may vary depending on location and demand.

Online Liquor Licensing System

Maharashtra Excise has a digital portal and mobile app where you can apply for:

Annual permits One-day permits Lifetime permits

You simply enter your Aadhaar number and complete the online form. The digital one-day permit for foreign liquor costs ₹5, while country liquor costs ₹2.

Liquor Shop Restrictions

As per the Supreme Court: No liquor shop is allowed within 500 meters of national or state highways In city areas, shops cannot be within 50 meters of schools or religious places They must be at least 100 meters away from hospitals

Penalties for Violating Liquor Laws

If anyone possesses, transports, or consumes liquor without a valid license in Mumbai, they can face:

A fine up to ₹50,000 Jail time of up to 5 years

FAQs

What is the cost of a liquor licence in India?
Liquor licence fees vary by state and licence type. Costs range widely depending on business category and local government rules.

How can I get a liquor licence?
Apply through your state excise department, submit business documents, pay licence fees, and complete inspections required for approval.

How to get a liquor licence in Mumbai?
Apply on the Maharashtra excise portal, submit restaurant documents, pay fees, schedule inspections, and track application status online.

How to get a liquor licence?
Choose the licence type, apply with required documents on your state excise portal, pay fees, and wait for approval.