Buy Liquor License in Santa Cruz

Expert guidance for buying, selling, and transferring California ABC liquor licenses in Santa Cruz County. Fast, reliable, and fully compliant with state regulations.

Buy a Liquor License

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Looking to purchase a Santa Cruz liquor license? At Liquor Licensors, we assist individuals and companies in obtaining the liquor licenses that they require in Santa Cruz County. We have licensed real estate professionals and local liquor business brokers who are willing to guide you through each step.

Types of Liquor Licenses in Santa Cruz County

To sell alcohol in Santa Cruz County, you will require a liquor license. The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) hands out these licenses. Licenses vary depending on what you require in your business and are of various types. Below are some of the most common types of liquor license Santa Cruz business owners can apply for:

Type 20 – Beer and Wine License (Off-Sale)

A Type 20 license allows stores to sell beer and wine that individuals can consume at home. It is perfect for little markets or liquor stores, where consumers do not drink at the outlet. This form of license is typically cost-effective compared to others, and convenience stores are well-suited for it. Remember, it applies only to beer and wine but not to hard liquor.

Type 21 – Full Liquor License (Off-Sale)

The Type 21 license allows the business to sell all kinds of alcohol, including beer, wine, and spirits. This one is often preferred by grocery and liquor stores. Customers are allowed to bring their kids in, provided they are not consuming alcohol. Compared to a Type 20, it is more expensive as it offers more options to make sales. If you’re looking to grow your alcohol sales, this liquor license Santa Cruz option gives you more flexibility.

Type 47 Liquor License – Full Liquor for Restaurants

Restaurants willing to serve beer, wine, and liquor should apply for a Type 47 license. Such a license lets customers drink on the spot. In some smaller restaurants, a Type 41 license, limited to beer and wine, is used. Because of high demand, restaurant owners often look for a liquor license for sale Santa Cruz, which can cost more since they buy it from someone who already owns it. A great option if you want your restaurant to serve a full bar.

Type 48 Liquor License – Full Liquor for Bars

Most commonly, non-food bars and nightclubs require a Type 48 license. With this license, they can sell drinks of beer, wine, and liquor within the bar, even late at night. It also allows bars to sell away drinks in closed containers. These licenses are bought from current owners, so if you’re opening a bar, you’ll need to find a liquor license for sale Santa Cruz and go through a process that takes about four months.

Type 57 Liquor License – Full Liquor for Private Clubs

This is a license manufactured on behalf of the privately owned clubs, such as country clubs or social clubs. It also allows them to sell any form of alcohol to their members and even to carry a beer or wine for sale. The licenses only operate in a particular county, such as Santa Cruz. It is possible to purchase or sell such licenses within the same county, and it cannot be transferred to another county.

How to Buy a Liquor License in Santa Cruz

Purchasing a liquor license in Santa Cruz requires a step-by-step process. Every step is significant, including selecting the appropriate type of license and completing the necessary documentation. Our team also guides you through state regulations and helps you discover the most suitable license for your business.

Choose the Right License Type

Before you buy a liquor license in Santa Cruz, it is essential to know which one fits your business. Need help choosing? Our experts can match your business model with the right license.

Open an Escrow Account

When selling/buying a liquor license, the two parties (the buyer and the seller) are protected by an escrow account during the process. Real estate transactions in the licensed escrow firms are secure and lawful. We will connect you with a verified escrow company to ensure the transfer proceeds smoothly.

Post a Public Notice

After applying to purchase the liquor license in Santa Cruz, you need to place a notice in your business location within the next 30 days. This provides an opportunity for community members to raise concerns. The notice is part of the legal process, required by the Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC). Our consultants can help you post the notice in the right way.

Complete the Application Process

The entire procedure to submit final paperwork to ABC may require approximately four months. Our team will ensure that your liquor license buying process is precise, that you file them on time, and that your experience is enjoyable in every way.

Work with a Licensed Broker

When purchasing a liquor license in Santa Cruz, a licensed liquor broker would become important. The brokers deal with paperwork, legal checks and documents to ensure that nothing is omitted. With an ideal broker, the license process becomes quick, less tedious, and competent. We recommend the verified experts who make the process easier and secure your investment.

Check the Availability of Licenses

A liquor license for sale Santa Cruz may not always be available due to local limits. Some license types, like Type 41 for beer and wine in restaurants, are still being issued. We help you understand what is available, depending on your type of business and location within the county.

Understand Market Impact

Santa Cruz is a popular food and beverage destination. This makes liquor licenses quite valuable and expensive. If you consider expanding your menu to include cocktails or craft drinks, this investment can stimulate your business. Preparation is a sure way to keep expenses on track and stay ahead of the competition.

Be Aware of Special Rules

All licenses are not easy to get. Due to individual state restrictions, the search of a liquor license in Santa Cruz has been on the increase. Using a liquor license broker can save you time. They are familiar with California laws and can assist you in obtaining a license suitable for your case, even in a challenging market.

Understand Pricing by County

Purchasing a liquor license in Santa Cruz can vary significantly depending on your location. The renewal fee is typically between $ 1,185 and $ 1,450. Because there are numerous restaurants, bars, and convenience stores located in Santa Cruz, the demand is high, and as such, the prices are also high.

Santa Cruz licenses tend to be offered at prices similar to those of the neighbouring counties, but availability and market competitiveness play a role in determining the final price.

Prepare for Fees and Costs

Purchasing a libation permit in Santa Cruz is accompanied by an initial and a continuous charge. The escrow fee, which aids in transfer security, averages between $1,000 and $2,000. It will also cost you approximately $ 1,470 to transfer the license.

You will need to renew your licenses (most of them, such as Type 47) annually. It ranges between $1,185 and $1,450. The ABC levies a $1,235 annual fee if one is staying in the city where the population exceeds 40,000. These expenses are best planned so that they do not come as a surprise.

Know What Affects the Price

The price paid to purchase a liquor license in Santa Cruz depends on a few factors. These will incorporate the number of permits that are available, the type of license you require, and the number of other businesses that are also seeking the same license. An example is a Type 41 license (beer and wine), which costs between $1,595 and $1,000.

Other, more costly licenses include the Type 47 and the Type 48 licenses, which enable liquor to be served in full. When licenses are scarce or in high-demand spots, prices increase.

FAQs

How do I buy a liquor license in Santa Cruz?

You can purchase a license through a broker or directly via the California ABC, depending on availability. A broker helps locate open licenses and guides you through the application process.

What is the cost of buying a liquor license in Santa Cruz?

Prices vary depending on the type of license and current market demand. Working with a broker can give you an idea of current costs and help plan your budget.

What types of liquor licenses are available in Santa Cruz?

Common licenses include Type 20 (beer & wine for off-site), Type 21 (full liquor for off-site), Type 47 (on-site consumption for restaurants), and Type 48 (full bar for establishments without food service).