For restauranteurs there are many licenses that are required to operate your business. One of the most important considerations to make is the type of liquor license that best suits your establishments needs. While there are many intricacies in the different licenses and how to obtain them, we’ve put together a guide to give you the basics.
Beer & Wine Consumption on Premise License (2COP):
Provided restauranteurs comply with Florida Beverage Law, obtaining a license for beer and wine is relatively easy. This of course means you can not serve hard liquor, but comes at a relatively inexpensive price of $168 – $392 per year. This fee varies county to county based on population.
Beer, Wine, & Liquor Consumption on Premise License (4COP):
Florida uses a quota system to regulate the amount of liquor licenses each county has. These licenses are transferrable and are often resold by brokers like ourselves. Compared to an SFS license, there are relatively few restrictions on which restaurants or bars are able to obtain a 4COP license. This means if you operate a smaller restaurant, bar, or nightclub and serve liquor you’ll need to purchase a 4COP license. While prices vary county to county, operators should expect to pay at least $250,000 for a 4COP license in Palm Beach and Broward counties, in addition to the $624 to $1,820 yearly filing fee. For qualified buyers, this cost can often be financed. Get in touch with us for more information and current pricing.
Special Food Service License (SFS):
These licenses are non-transferable between locations and are available to restauranteurs that meet the following criteria:
- 2,500+ Square Foot Restaurant Under Air
- 150+ Patron Seating Capacity Including Patio Seating
- At Least 51% Food or Non-Alcoholic Beverage Sales
These licenses are issued by the county, and are readily available. The yearly filing fee is based on county population and ranges between $624 – $1,820.
Where to Purchase a Quota License:
If you’re looking for the most up to date prices on 4COP licenses, get in touch with Prakas & Co. We’ve been brokering Florida’s hottest restaurants, bars, and nightclubs for the last twenty years and would be happy to assist you in the acquisition of your next liquor license.