by Joan Mccord

Created on: January 02, 2009   Last Updated: January 24, 2009

The State of Illinois closely regulates the use of alcohol through licensing of its purchase, sale, and movement within the state.

Each municipal unit: City, county, ward, or other administrative entity; maintains distinct requirements that are not necessarily identical. For example, Chicago requires a criminal history review and various onsite premise inspections. Public notice of filing is mandatory.

http://www.egov.cityofchicago.org This is not true for every entity throughout the state.

Moratorium restrictions against the issuance of certain licenses, under certain circumstances, are in effect. The case manager in the Department of Alcohol Control or the local City Council Representative (Alderman) is your best source of information about exact requirements, as well as the process of gathering all necessary supporting data for consideration of your application.

Throughout the state, the license is highly specific in detail of use and premise. There is no one, all-inclusive license. Each activity within the premise must be reviewed for a separate licensing requirement. For example certain entertainment devices such as pool tables, arcade games, etc., require individual licensing.

Some questions to be asked are: Will you only sell drinks inside a bar or restaurant? Will you do off-site catering of a party with an open bar? Will you participate in fairs and festivals lasting more than one day? Will you host wine tasting? Keep in mind that each activity could require a permit in addition to the liquor license.

A visit to the Illinois Control Commission website will answer many questions, and provide print-ready applications and permits. http://www.stateill.usLCC

Accurate and complete responses to all questions are mandatory and supporting documents are required:

* A photocopy of Certificate of Insurance if alcohol is to be consumed on premise;

* If acquiring an existing business, you will need:

* A photocopy of current local liquor license.

* Prior State Liquor License

* Bulk Sales Release Order - From Ill Dept. of Revenue

* Proof that applicant has the right to occupy premise (proof of purchase, lease, etc.)

* Federal Employee Identification Number

* Illinois Business Tax (Sales Tax Number)

* Check or money order for license fee ($500)

* Application must bear an original signature.

ILLINOIS LIQUOR CONTROL COMMISSION

The Commission conducts education and training seminars for all license holders and servers throughout the state. http://www.training-classes.com/providers

An online

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