Alcohol Licenses Frequently Asked Questions
How do you apply for a liquor license?
Guidelines and application forms are on our website: Business.Licenses@minneapolismn.gov. These include checklists of what you need to do to obtain a liquor license.
Who can I call if I have questions/complaints about a neighboring alcohol establishment?
You may either call or email Minneapolis 311, which addresses nonemergency concerns.
Where can I find a link to the city ordinance regarding alcohol licenses/ sales, so I can get a better understanding of the rules and regulations that these establishments must follow?
See Code of Ordinances, Title 14: Liquor and Beer.
How can I find out what my ward is and who the City Council Member for my ward is?
The City's website has a map for you to type in your address.
How long does the process of obtaining a liquor license in Minneapolis take?
About six to eight weeks.
Besides 3-1-1 is there a general Business Licensing number that I can contact for more information?
You can call 311 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on weekdays or email Minneapolis311@minneapolismn.gov. The telephone number for Business Licenses is (612) 673-2080. We are open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
What are the main rules, regulations, procedures and standards these alcohol-serving establishments have to follow? (Noise, litter, serving within hours, etc.)?
Inspectors use a checklist for enforcement and accountability.
How are these rules and regulations enforced?
Routine, complaint, and after-hour enforcement by License Inspectors.
What are the penalties for these violations? For repeat violations?
Warnings, citations, fines, license suspension and/or revocation.
Where can I find a calendar showing the different dates and subject matter for public council meetings? And if I were to attend this public meeting, would I have a chance to voice my concerns directly to the council?
A meeting schedule is available from our website. You may also contact your Council Member or License Inspector .
Last updated Dec. 6, 2012