If you want to sell liquor in West Virginia, knowing the laws can save you time and headaches.
To obtain a liquor license in West Virginia, applicants must meet requirements ranging from residency checks to limits on the type of spirits sold, as well as the location of consumption. You must also comply with zoning laws regarding placement of businesses that purvey alcohol. With a clear understanding of the requirements, you'll be prepared to expedite the application process and obtain your liquor license with a minimum of trouble.
Individual West Virginia Liquor License
An individual who wants to apply for a liquor license in West Virginia must meet certain requirements. West Virginia allows an individual to obtain a license only for the selling of retail non-intoxicating beer or wine. All other types of liquor licenses must be requested by partnerships, corporations, associations or limited liability corporations. Those entities will need to be registered with the state of West Virgina.
Release of Information
Those who apply for a liquor license will need to sign a release of information. Applicants should be aware that they will be subject to a criminal investigation as well as a residency check that determines whether the applicant meets the requirements of being a resident of West Virginia for 2 years or more. Those who do not meet the residency requirement may have to apply for a waiver. Applicants will also need to be in good standing with the West Virginia Department of Revenue.
Location
A retail establishment for selling liquor must be located in the proper zone. All retailers considering doing business in any form should check with their municipality to make sure the proposed property is located in a zone that is able to pursue retail activities, and specifically the sale of alcohol. Any business that sells alcohol may not be located within 300 feet of a school or church. Retail liquor licenses are not issued at all in dry municipalities.
Health
The West Virginia Board of Health will need to inspect the business and approve it before the business can hold a liquor license. This certificate must be presented along with the application.
Classes and Dates
Liquor licenses are issued in two classes. The Class A license allows alcohol to be consumed on the premises. A Class B license permits the retailer to sell alcohol to be consumed somewhere other than the premises. Both classes of liquor license must be renewed by June 30 every fiscal year.
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