Liquor License in Andhra Pradesh

Starting a business that involves selling or serving alcohol in Andhra Pradesh requires a proper liquor license. The state government, through the Andhra Pradesh Excise Department, strictly regulates the manufacture, sale, and distribution of liquor under the Andhra Pradesh Excise Act. Whether it is a bar, wine shop, or restaurant, obtaining the right license is essential to operate legally and avoid penalties. This detailed article will provide information on liquor license in Andhra Pradesh.

What is a Liquor License?

A liquor license is an official permit issued by the state government that allows a business or individual to sell, serve, or distribute alcoholic beverages legally. In India, each state regulates liquor licensing under its own excise laws. For example, in Andhra Pradesh, the Excise Department controls the process under the Andhra Pradesh Excise Act. Without this license, selling or serving alcohol is illegal and can lead to heavy fines or closure of the business. Different licenses apply to bars, restaurants, clubs, and wine shops.

Who Regulates Liquor Licensing in Andhra Pradesh?

The details below include who regulates liquor licensing in Andhra Pradesh:

1. Commissioner of Prohibition & Excise

• Appointed by the State Government under the Andhra Pradesh Excise Act, 1968.
• Acts as the top official responsible for all excise-related rules and administration.
• Holds the powers of a District Collector for excise matters and can delegate duties to deputies and superintendents

2. Excise Department Structure

• Led by the Commissioner and supported by Additional Commissioners, Joint Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, and Assistant Commissioners
• At the district level, Deputy Commissioners and Excise Superintendents manage licenses, issuing them to bars, shops, wholesalers, events, and premium stores.

3. Role of the Government and the Excise Minister

• The State Government sets the policies, determines the number of licenses, fees, safety standards, and selection methods (like lotteries)
• The Excise Minister (currently Kollu?Ravindra since June 2024) heads the Department of Excise and is politically responsible

Eligibility Criteria to Apply for a Liquor License

Here are the eligibility criteria to apply for a liquor license:

• Minimum Age: You must be at least 21 years old to apply, ensuring only mature, legally responsible individuals can hold a liquor license.
• Indian Citizen or Person of Indian Origin (PIO): Applicants must be Indian citizens or PIOs, proving their legal status and compliance with state excise laws before receiving a license.
• Citizenship Requirement for Partnerships: If applying as a partnership firm, every partner must be an Indian citizen, ensuring full compliance with Andhra Pradesh excise regulations.
• Partnership Change Requires Approval: No partner changes or ownership transfers are allowed without prior written approval from the Excise Commissioner, maintaining transparency in licensing records.
• No Legal Prohibitions under Rule 13: Applicants must not be barred by Rule 13 or any other law that restricts individuals from holding an excise license.

Documents Required to Apply for a Liquor License

Let us go through the documents required to apply for a liquor license:

Basic Documents for All Applicants

• Property Ownership or Lease Proof: Certificate or lease showing your right over the proposed site.
• Blueprints & Layouts: Four copies of detailed maps of your building, including equipment, storage, vats, etc., certified by a PWD or similar qualified person.
• Project Report: Includes cost, like benefit study, production estimates, and market research.
• Fire Safety Certificate: Copy of approved fire NOC from the relevant authority.
• Environmental Clearance: Pollution control NOC if required.
• Local NOC: Permission from local bodies, like municipality, corporation, town committee, or panchayat.
• Legal Certificate: Criminal status affidavit (if convicted, provide details; otherwise, a “no conviction” affidavit).

Additional Documents for Partnership Firms

• Business Papers: Registration certificate and partnership deed.
• Ownership Details: List of partners owning over 15%.
• ID & Address Proof: PAN, Aadhaar, etc., of all partners.
• Power of Attorney: Authorises a representative.
• Declaration: Confirming who will represent the firm before the Excise Department.
• Affidavits: No dues, no blacklisting, no prior convictions under NDPS, Excise, IPC, etc.
• Tax Certificates: Current sales-tax registration and clearance.
• Blueprint Verification: Three certified copies of site plans signed by the applicant and excise officers
• Excise Enquiry Report, Law & Order NOC, Tourism Compliance Certificate, and any other specific certificates as required.

Documents for 2B (Bar) License

• Trade License: To serve food.
• Tax Returns: Income-tax or VAT for the last two years.
• Premises Plan: With the owner’s consent, if rented.
• EMD & Fees: ?3?lakh earnest money + ?2?lakh non?refundable application fee.

Microbrewery License Documents

• Design Plans: Drawings and technical description for microbrewery setup.
• Pollution NOC: From the AP Pollution Control Board and the local body.
• Counterpart Agreement: Formal project agreement.

How to Apply for a Liquor License in Andhra Pradesh

Here is the process to apply for a liquor license in Andhra Pradesh:

• Check the Official Notification: Keep an eye on government announcements, usually published online and in district notices, stating which shops or license types (e.g., retail, bar) are open for application
• Register on the AP Excise Portal: Visit the official Excise site and sign up with your mobile and email.
• Fill Out the Application Form: Pick your license type and reference number (from the Gazette list). Complete the required Form A3(A) with accurate business and personal details.
• Upload Documents: Include your proofs, like ID, property and site plans, NOCs (local body, fire, pollution), project details, financial affidavits, etc. Attach partnership deeds, tax clearances, and bar?/microbrewery?specific documents where needed.
• Pay the Application Fee / EMD: Submit the non-refundable application fee (?2?lakh typically) and additional EMD or RET deposits depending on license type.
• Submit & Download Acknowledgement: Online applicants receive a confirmation receipt. Offline users submit hard copies at the Excise offices and receive a token or printed receipt.
• Lottery or Selection Draw: Eligible applicants may be shortlisted via a public lottery overseen by district officials.
• Pay License Fees & Provide Bonds: Once selected, pay the license amount (RET or fixed fee) within the deadline. Submit bonds and any remaining documents.
• License Issued: You receive a provisional license (Form?A?4) and can start operations after official inspections and clearance.

Liquor License Fees in Andhra Pradesh

Here are the liquor license fees in Andhra Pradesh:

Obtaining a liquor license in Andhra Pradesh may seem detailed, but it ensures your business stays legal, safe, and profitable. From understanding eligibility rules to preparing the right documents and paying the correct fees, following the proper process helps avoid delays or penalties. With the Excise Department’s structured system, any bar, restaurant, or shop can operate smoothly and grow. This article provided a detailed guide on liquor license in Andhra Pradesh. For more such informative blogs, you can visit Online Legal India.