FAQ

The California Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) laws regarding liquor licenses, alcohol service and permits for catering and special events can be confusing. When do I need an ABC permit? Do I need to hire a licensed bar caterer? Can I hire a licensed bartender? Well, we are here to help. We have put together some commonly asked questions and answers to assist in the professional, compliant and legal service of alcohol for your next event.

When must I have an ABC event permit in place?

Under one or more of the following circumstances, an ABC event permit is required at an event.

• Drinks are being sold at the bar, i.e. no-host bar

• There is any admission cost for the event, i.e. cover charge, ticket price, donation

• The event is open to the public, i.e. no private guest list

• The event venue requires an ABC permit to be in place

Do you need to own a Liquor License to cater alcohol at an event?

Yes. The first step to cater alcoholic beverages anywhere in the State of California is to own a Type 47 or 48 (full liquor license) or a Type 41 or 42 (beer & wine only license). These licenses are typically held by a restaurant, hotel or licensed caterer. With one of these licenses, the licensee must then apply for a “58 Caterer’s License” which allows the licensee to apply for event permits (see below) to serve alcohol outside their licensed premises.

What is an ABC event permit?

An ABC event permit (also known as an ABC 218) is required whenever a licensed caterer serves alcohol at a catered event. The ABC license owner files a request and pays a fee to the ABC with the event date, location, event sponsor, hours and guest count for the specific event. Once approved, the permit must be on-site during the catered event.

Who may file for an ABC 218 event permit?

You must be an ABC license owner as described above to file for an ABC 218 permit.

Can I get an event permit for my private party without hiring a licensed caterer?

No. You must hire an ABC licensed caterer.

How can I be sure that the caterer I hire is ABC licensed?

Ask your caterer to fax you a copy of their ABC liquor license and a copy of the approved ABC 218 permit that has been issued for your event.

Do I need a “licensed bartender”?

Contrary to popular belief, there is no such thing as a “licensed bartender”.  Companies are ABC licensed, not bartenders. If a bartender says they are licensed, ask to see their ABC license.

What do I do if my event location asks for proof that I am hiring a licensed caterer?

Once you have secured the services of an ABC licensed caterer, ask them to forward a copy of their ABC liquor license and event permit to the event location.

My caterer says they cater liquor, but don’t own a liquor license. Is this okay?

No. You must own an ABC liquor license to cater alcohol for any type of event. Contrary to popular belief, most caterers do not own liquor licenses and cannot legally cater alcoholic beverages.

My caterer says they don’t need a liquor license since it is a private event and they are not selling drinks.  Is this true?

No. If your caterer is providing you the alcohol under any circumstances, then they must own an ABC liquor license.

If I am providing the alcohol for my event, can my caterer serve it?

Yes. A caterer can serve alcohol providing to them by the host. However, if the caterer is serving it, make sure that they provide you a copy of their Liquor Liability insurance policy. This way you know they are covered for any liability resulting from alcohol service. If they don’t have proof of liquor liability insurance, make sure you hire an Event Staffing company that can provide you with an insured bartender.

Can I be fined for illegally reselling alcoholic beverages?

Yes. The ABC is actively pursuing the illegal sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages at events by un-licensed caterers, restaurants and institutions.

Is it illegal to serve someone who is obviously intoxicated?

Yes. It is a misdemeanor to serve alcohol to any person who appears obviously intoxicated.

We hope this helps you navigate some of the confusion regarding the Alcoholic Beverage Control rules and regulations regarding alcohol service. For more information regarding our bar catering services.