1. What source of South African law deals with liquor licenses?

   In Gauteng, The Gauteng Liquor Act, 2 of 2003, the municipal by-laws and regulations.



2. What is the difference between an “on consumption” and an “off consumption” liquor licence?

   Liquor licenses are divided in two categories namely “on consumption” (liquor sold may only be consumed on the premises i.e. tavern, restaurant, night club) and “off consumption” liquor license (liquor sold may not be consumed on the premises, i.e. a liquor store.) In addition to this, the law provides for a Distributors Liquor License or Wholesale Liquor License. (Liquor may only be sold to licensed entities such as Liquor Stores, Pubs etc.) and a Manufacturers Liquor License.



3. How do I know which licence will be best suited for my business?

   The type of liquor licence that you will require for your business will depend on the business category your business falls under. Further factors such as the zoning of the property and the potential impact of your business on the surrounding area and businesses will affect the success of your application. As part of our service to you, we shall ensure that these aspects are discussed with you and complied before your application is submitted.



4. How long does it take for a licence to be issued?

   Between 4 – 6 months.



5. When do I have to renew my liquor licence?

   All liquor licenses must be renewed annually. Should you fail to do so, your liquor licenses will expire after the period has come to an end. Should a liquor licenses expire, a new Liquor License application will have to be lodged.



6. What documentation do I need to bring with to my first consultation?

   • A Police Clearance Certificate (for every owner of the business);
   • A Tax Clearance Certificate;
   • Proof that you are affiliated with the Gauteng Liquor Traders Association (GLTA) (Section 38 of the Liquor Act, 2003);
   • Zoning Certificate, which expressly confirms that the type of business you want to conduct may be conducted on the proposed premises, (this must be obtained from your Local Municipality);
   • Lease agreement or proof of ownership of the premises;
   • Certificate of Compliance from Emergency Management Services
   • Certificate of Compliance from your Municipalities Environmental Health Division (if application is for an on-consumption licence);
   • 3 sets of colour photographs of the interior, exterior and surrounding area of the proposed premises;
   • 3 sets of the floor layout plan and site plan of the proposed premises;
   • 3 sets of the intended menu (if application is for an on-consumption);
   • Copy of identity document of Applicant (if a private person);
   • Certificate of Incorporation and CM29 if Applicant is a Company;
   • Founding Statement if Applicant is a Close Corporation.



7. When do I qualify as a Micro Manufacturer of Alcohol?

   • A Micro manufacturer is a group or person who manufactures alcohol which is below the macro enterprise annual limits, these limits are as follows:
     • Beer – 100 Million Liters
     • Sorghum beer – 50 Million Liters
     • Wine 4 Million Liters
     • Spirits – 2 Million Liters
   • Once the micro-manufacturer’s licence is granted, a condition will be imposed that your product first be tested and for you to submit a letter from Department of Agriculture, before the licence will be issued.



8. When do I have to renew my liquor licence?

   All liquor licenses must be renewed annually. Should you fail to do so, your liquor licenses will expire after the period has come to an end. Should a liquor licenses expire, a new Liquor License application will have to be lodged.

Some of our clients: