Florida recently opened its lottery drawing for its highly coveted and lucrative quota liquor license and set the lottery deadline for Oct. 4. This process allows a handful of businesses or people to obtain licenses for selling liquor, wine and beer in the retail setting. These licenses do not have the restrictions associated with most beverage licenses in Florida, which allow only wine and beer sales.
Liquor license availability in Florida
Four licenses were made available in the state’s Palm Beach County in September. Meanwhile, two became available in Florida’s Miami-Dade, and three were made available in Broward. Several other licenses became available in other parts of the Sunshine State as well, with the license lottery fee being $100 per entry.
These popular liquor licenses can be obtained only through the state’s lottery or via purchasing them from people with existing ones. Counties make them available when their populations increase by 7,500. People with these licenses can sell alcohol in packages at stores or at bars and restaurants for immediate consumption. The licenses may be worth between $300,000 and $400,000 depending on a county’s demand and the number offered for sale. Lottery winners must pass background checks and pay Florida $10,750 each before their licenses are activated.
How a liquor license attorney can help
A business owner in Florida who wins a liquor license through the lottery would be wise to consult an attorney as soon as possible. The attorney can help a retailer apply for the license and remain compliant in their workplace. The attorney can also represent the retailer in a legal dispute revolving around serving alcohol to minors or intoxicated individuals, ensuring that his or her client’s rights and best interests are protected.