Getting a liquor license in New York can be a long and frustrating process—especially if you’re not familiar with the paperwork, timelines, or State Liquor Authority (SLA) requirements.

Whether you’re opening a bar, restaurant, or hosting a pop-up event, delays in your license can mean lost revenue and missed opportunities.

Here’s how to avoid common slowdowns and speed up the licensing process—with the help of the experts at Team COL Group.

1. Start Early—Even Before Renovations

One of the biggest mistakes new owners make is waiting too long to begin the application.
You can apply for your license as soon as you sign your lease. You don’t have to wait until your space is fully built or operational.

The earlier you start, the more time you have to resolve issues like zoning, community board reviews, or missing documents.

2. Know Which License You Need

Applying for the wrong license will slow things down—or get your application denied altogether.

Some common license types include:

• Beer and Wine License
• Full Liquor License (On-Premises)
• Catering Permit
• Temporary Permit for Special Events

At Team COL Group, we help you choose the right license for your business model and location.

3. Prepare All Required Documents Before You Apply

The SLA requires a full list of documents that can include:

• Lease agreement
• Floor plan
• Personal questionnaires
• Proof of citizenship
• Financial disclosure forms
• Community Board notifications

Missing just one form can delay your application by weeks.

We make sure everything is in order before submission—so there are no surprises.

4. Consider Applying for a Temporary Permit

In some cases, you’re allowed to operate with a Temporary Permit while the full license is being processed.
This can help you open sooner, generate revenue, and keep your timeline on track.

Not all businesses qualify, but we’ll help you understand your options and apply correctly.

5. Avoid Common Pitfalls

Typical causes of delay include:

• Incorrect zoning or unapproved floor plans
• Failing to notify the local Community Board
• Missing signatures or errors in forms
• Past legal issues not disclosed properly

We’ve seen it all—and we know how to prevent it.

Work with the Liquor Licensing Experts in New York

At Team COL Group, we help hospitality businesses, event organizers, and entrepreneurs get their licenses approved quickly and correctly.

We handle:

• Full-service license applications
• Temporary permits
• Community board presentations
• SLA communications and responses

Based in New York
Experienced with all types of liquor licenses
Contact us today to speed up your process

Don’t let paperwork slow down your plans—let’s get you licensed and ready to serve.