CA Bill To Simplify Liquor License Applications Unveiled

SAN FRANCISCO, CA — A bill that aims to make it easier for small businesses to get off the ground by simplifying elements of the liquor license application process was introduced this week by State Senator Scott Wiener, D-San Francisco.

Senate Bill 980 would "cut red tape" involved with liquor license applications, a spokesperson for Wiener's office said. The state senator hopes to "fill vacant storefronts" with small businesses and boost economic recovery from the impacts of COVID-19, his office said.

Under existing state law, anyone who applies for a liquor license must pay to mail out a written notice to every resident within 500 feet of the site, "even if cities do not require or want this written notification," Wiener's office said. Sen. Wiener estimates that this can cost a small business "thousands of dollars" or more. SB 980 would grant cities local authority to require whatever level of notification they want.

According to Sen. Wiener's office, the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) can deny a liquor license based solely on the business being near a church, hospital, school, public playground, or nonprofit youth center, which, he argues, could cover "the lion's share of a city."SB 980 removes this barrier for bars and restaurants, but keeps it intact for liquor stores.

SB 980 would also eliminate the requirement to wait one year after withdrawing an application to then re-apply at the same location and loosens some requirements for those using interim operating permits while a license awaits approval.

SB 980 is sponsored by the City and County of San Francisco.

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