As part of his commercial law practice, Mike Williams has extensive knowledge in this very specialised area of commerce. He is assisted by Lesley de Vries with the Liquor Licence Application process.

Our services include preparation, drafting and submission of the liquor licence application, applications for the transfer of licences, temporary licences and special consents and/or licences to the relevant authorities for approval, as well as appeals on refused licences.

There are two main types of licences a business can apply for. The first relates to the sale and consumption of alcohol in designated premises, such as restaurants, hotels, taverns and clubs. The second relates to the retail sale of alcohol and applies mainly to liquor stores and grocery stores where the liquor is not consumed at the premises.

It is a criminal offence to manufacture, distribute or sell liquor without a valid licence and any member of the South African Police Services can close down a business and confiscate assets where there has been a contravention.

Please view the following link for information on the new procedure regarding payment of renewal fees for existing licences, and payment of registration fees, for all Liquor Licences:

Liquor Licence Renewal Payments (296 KB)