FAQs

Alcohol Licensing

• Do I need a Temporary Beer or Wine License for a Private Event?

  You do not need a temporary license for a private event as long as the event meets the following criteria:

  • The private event is by invitation only with the invited guests known to the host.  The event IS NOT open to the public.
  • The event is not advertised or promoted on social media or other means of public communication.
  • There is no exchange of money – no cost for purchasing alcohol, no cost to enter the event, no donation jar, no tip jar, no exchange of money in any way.

  A person serving alcohol beverages at a private party is not required to hold an operator’s (bartender) license.

• What kind of alcohol licensing do I need for a public event?

  Any event that is open to the public or where money is exchanged requires a Temp B - Beer or Temp C - Wine license.   Other stipulations for the issuance of such licenses include:

  • Temporary Licenses can only be issued to bona fide clubs, chambers of commerce, to county or local fair associations or agricultural societies, to churches, lodges or societies that have been in existence for at least 6 months, and to veterans’ organization.

  • Temporary Beer License – there is no limit on how many an organization can have in a year.

  • Temporary Wine License – An organization can only have up to 2 licenses in a 12-month period.

  • No Liquor can be served under these licenses, only beer and/or wine.

  • The event must have a licensed operator (bartender) or someone must apply for a temporary operator's license which includes taking a responsible beverage server's course and have a completed background check.

  • A completed application should be turned into the Clerk's office at least 1 month before the event along with the application fee.  The Common Council will need to approve the temporary license prior to the event.

• What kind of license do I need if I wish to server beer and alcohol at a restaurant?

  You will need to apply for a "Class B" liquor and Class "B" fermented malt beverage license.  The City is subject to a quota of "Class B" liquor licenses per State law.  If you wish to apply for a "Class B" liquor license, please about available license with the City Clerk.