Running a bar or restaurant in Pennsylvania requires having a valid liquor license. This license enables you to serve alcohol to your customers, thereby improving their dining experience and increasing your revenue. However, many business owners are unaware of the significant consequences that come with not renewing their liquor license on time.
In Allegheny County, the renewal period for retail liquor licenses started on February 2, 2023, and the deadline is April 2, 2023. Any retail license that isn’t renewed or has a late filing fee will expire on May 31st. Click here for the renewal/validation period for other Pennsylvania counties. To avoid penalties and fines, liquor license renewal in Pennsylvania should be a top priority for bar and restaurant owners.
The process of renewing your liquor license in Pennsylvania involves submitting your application to the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB), along with required tax clearances from the Departments of Revenue and Labor and Industry and filing fees, at least 60 days before your license expires. If you miss the April 2nd deadline in Allegheny County to renew your retail liquor license, you can still renew by paying an additional fee of $100 or $250, depending on the time of filing.
The consequences of not renewing your liquor license on time can be severe. The primary impact is that you will no longer be able to sell alcohol legally at your establishment, leading to a significant loss of revenue. You may also lose customers who come to your establishment for the ability to purchase alcohol with their meal.
Furthermore, failing to renew your liquor license can result in penalties and fines from the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) if you continue to sell liquor without a valid license. You may also face legal action from the State Police Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement (BLCE) and the possibility of having your license permanently revoked.
To avoid these consequences, it’s essential to stay informed and take the necessary steps to renew your license before the deadline. Here’s what you can do:
• Mark the renewal deadline on your calendar
• Familiarize yourself with the renewal requirements, including submitting updated financial and background information and paying any outstanding fines or penalties.
• Seek assistance from an experienced liquor license attorney and accountant if you need help renewing your Pennsylvania liquor license or have questions about the process. They can guide you through the complexities of the renewal process, help you renew your license on time, and advise you on how to avoid any potential consequences.
In conclusion, a timely liquor license renewal is crucial for the success of your bar or restaurant. Don’t let the consequences of not renewing your license hurt your business. Stay informed, follow the necessary steps, and renew your license before the deadline to ensure your establishment operates legally and smoothly.
