If you’ve ever tried to navigate California’s liquor laws, you know it can feel like trying to order a drink in a language you don’t speak. The rules can be complicated, and the last thing you want is to accidentally break the law while planning your event. Don't worry, we've got you covered! Here is a simple breakdown to keep things stress-free (and legal) for your next event.
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Do You Need a Liquor License or Special Event Permit for Your Event?
California’s Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) requires a license or permit to serve alcohol at any event open to the public, and any event that requires guests to pay (directly or indirectly) for alcohol. In order to be exempt from needing a license or permit, your event must meet all of these criteria:
✅ Invitation-Only: Your event is not open to the public. Only invited guests can attend.
✅ Host-Sponsored Alcohol: The host provides all alcohol at their own expense.
✅ No Sales of Alcohol: Guests are not paying for drinks in any way—no cash bar, no drink tickets, no donations, no corkage fees.
✅ No Entry Fees: There are no cover charges, admission tickets, or raffles that could be interpreted as covering the cost of alcohol.
✅ Venue Approval: Check with your venue to confirm they do not require an ABC permit.
If your event checks all these boxes, congrats! You can serve alcohol without any special permits! 🎉
If your event does not meet all of the above criteria, you'll likely need a license or permit, but don't worry! We'll cover the two most common situations below.
How to Get an ABC 221 Daily License (One-Day License)
Is your event hosted or sponsored by a qualified organization such as a non-profit 501(c)(3)? Then you may be eligible for an ABC 221 Daily License.
Learn more about qualified organizations and other requirements and here is a link to the Daily License Application. Follow the steps below for a stress-free experience!
1️⃣. Check with your local ABC office: Direct any questions to your local ABC office to be sure you meet the requirements. (In our experience, they are very responsive and helpful)
2️⃣. Apply in Advance: The application must be submitted at least 10 days before the event, but we recommend you submit earlier in case of unexpected delays.
3️⃣. Pay the Permit Fee: Fees vary based on the event size and location.
4️⃣. Hire RBS certified bartenders:
How to Get an ABC 218 Special Event Permit
If you are not a qualified organization, you will likely need to hire a catering company who holds a liquor license and they would then need to apply for a ABC 218 Special Event Permit.
Here is a link to the Authorization Application and Instructions for completing. Follow the steps below for a stress-free experience!
1️⃣. Hire a Licensed Catering Company: Only a catering company with an existing ABC liquor license can apply for an ABC 218 permit on your behalf.
2️⃣. Apply in Advance: The application must be submitted at least 10 days before the event.
3️⃣. Pay the Permit Fee: Fees vary based on the event size and location.
4️⃣. Buy Your Own Alcohol (Optional): You can purchase alcohol separately, but the licensed caterer must serve it.
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Common Questions About Liquor Licensing
Can a Regular Business Get a One-Day Liquor License (ABC 221 Daily License)?
Unfortunately, no. California doesn’t offer a one-day liquor license for private businesses. Only non-profits and certain other organizations can apply for temporary liquor licenses. Learn more about qualified organizations and requirements.
Can We “Become” a Catering Company to Apply for an ABC 218 Permit?
Unfortunately, no. You can’t just sign up to be a catering company for the sake of getting the proper permit for your event. The catering company must already have an existing liquor license before they can apply for event permits.
If We Hire a Licensed or Certified Bartender, Do We Still Need a Liquor License?
Yes. If your event does not meet the criteria listed at the top of this post, hiring a licensed or certified bartender does not replace the need for a liquor license or permit.
Regardless of your situation, you should always hire bartenders who are licensed and certified, but we'll clear things up as these terms can be confusing.
In the case of mobile bartending services (and other mobile vendors not associated with a restaurant or catering company) it is important to clarify that "licensed" often means "licensed to do business" as they are not permitted to hold a liquor license, while "certified" often refers to the Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) certification. Both are very important and often required to serve alcohol in California.
How Do I Find a Caterer With a Liquor License?
If you need a liquor caterer for your event, there are plenty of licensed professionals in California. Just do a quick web search for "Liquor caterers near me" and you'll find more than a few options.
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We hope this has been helpful, and we look forward to serving you in the future!
Cheers! 🥂
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