Obtaining a liquor license in Florida or any state is a complex and time-consuming task. In many regions, there is a cap on the number of licenses authorities may issue. Therefore, a business owner who acquires the privilege of selling or serving alcohol should do everything in his or her power to maintain licensure. This means remaining in compliance with all regulations pertaining to the alcohol industry
5 common mistakes
Understanding state and local laws governing alcohol is a good first step. Ignorance of the law will not prevent authorities from revoking one’s license. It is also helpful to know some of the common and easily avoidable reasons businesses can forfeit their liquor license, including:
- Overserving someone who shows signs of intoxication
- Serving alcohol to minors or failing to check for valid IDs
- Neglecting to properly train and certify employees serving alcohol
- Serving alcohol in areas of the establishment not authorized by one’s license
- Serving alcohol outside the times authorized by one’s license
For example, in Florida, an establishment may not sell alcohol after midnight and before 7 a.m. However, this may vary from county to county. The owner of the establishment is responsible for knowing the rules that govern his or her region.
Protect your business
Whether a business owner has sold alcohol for decades or is new to the industry, it is important to know that laws change frequently and that the laws are different in every state. Violating those laws can result in loss of licensure and possibly other penalties. Losing a liquor license can be devastating to an establishment.