Opening a restaurant, bar, or café in New York is exciting—but getting the right liquor license can be one of the trickiest parts.
The process with the New York State Liquor Authority (SLA) involves a lot of paperwork, deadlines, and strict rules. Missing a detail could delay your opening or even get your application denied.
At Team COL Group, we’ve seen it all. Here are some of the most common mistakes businesses make when applying for a liquor license—and how you can avoid them.
1. Submitting Incomplete Applications
One of the biggest reasons applications get delayed or rejected is missing paperwork. The SLA requires a full set of documents, including:
- Lease agreements
- Floor plans
- Community board notifications
- Proof of right to the premises
If you miss even one required document, your application could be sent back or put on hold.
Tip: Always double-check the full checklist before submitting anything. If you’re unsure, working with a licensing expert can help you get it right the first time.
2. Ignoring Zoning and Community Board Requirements
Not every location in New York City is automatically approved for alcohol service.
You’ll need to make sure:
- The property is properly zoned for your business type.
- You’ve notified the local Community Board when required.
- You’re aware of any distance restrictions from schools or places of worship.
Skipping these steps can cause major setbacks—or a straight denial.
3. Underestimating the Timeline
Getting a liquor license in New York isn’t a quick process. Depending on the license type and location, it can take several months.
Planning to open next month? If you haven’t applied yet, that timeline might not be realistic.
Tip: Start your application process early—ideally at the same time you’re finalizing your lease or renovation plans.
4. Choosing the Wrong Type of License
There are different types of liquor licenses in New York:
- Beer and wine only
- Full liquor licenses
- Catering permits
- Seasonal licenses
Applying for the wrong license type can lead to more delays and extra paperwork.
It’s important to match your business plan with the right license from the start.
5. Not Hiring Professional Help
While it’s possible to apply for a liquor license on your own, mistakes can be costly.
An experienced licensing team can help you:
- Navigate the SLA process
- Complete paperwork correctly
- Avoid delays
- Communicate with Community Boards and agencies
It’s an investment that can save you time, stress, and lost revenue from delayed openings.
How Team COL Group Can Help
At Team COL Group, we specialize in helping businesses across New York get the permits and licenses they need to open smoothly and legally.
Whether you’re opening your first café or launching a new restaurant concept, we’ll guide you through the liquor licensing process—so you can focus on building your business, not chasing paperwork.
Ready to get started?
Contact us today and let’s make sure your application is done right.
