Applicant qualifications
Alcohol license applicants must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Have no felony convictions in the past five years
- Have fewer than two alcohol-related misdemeanors in the past five years
How to apply for an alcohol license
We explain what you need to know to apply for any alcohol license in Minneapolis.
Before you apply
Before you apply, you will want to gather some basic information about your business.
License type
Make sure you apply for the right alcohol license. Alcohol license types include:
- Liquor
- Wine
- Beer
- Breweries and distilleries
Location
Choose your location in Minneapolis, and get approval for the site from Planning and Zoning.
Funding
Tell the City how you will pay for all your start-up costs.
Entertainment
Let the City know what type of entertainment you will offer.
Business plan
You need to write a business plan when you apply for an alcohol business license.
Food
Think about your menu. You will need to provide a couple food options. A Health Inspector can help you with this.
Parking
You will need to provide a place for your customers to park.
Announcement
The City requires you to send a letter announcing your business to your:
Public hearing
The City may need to hold a public hearing for your business. Your license inspector will schedule a hearing, if needed.
Tips to help you succeed
Start early
It may take extra time to schedule inspections. You will need approvals from the other divisions.
Follow the application checklist
The license application packet lists everything we need. A complete application reduces delays. Submit your application to Business Licenses
If you have questions, contact:
Know the rules
- Before you sign a lease, ask if can be contingent on getting your license.
- Staff from Zoning can tell you the type of business allowed at a location.
- You may need to give us a floor plan.
- You may need other permits for building, plumbing or mechanical.
See construction permits overview
Common questions
Find answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about starting an alcohol business.
Contact us
Business Licenses & Consumer Services
Phone
612-673-2080
Fax
612-673-3399
Address
Public Service Building505 Fourth Ave. S., Room 220
Minneapolis, MN 55415
Office hours
8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Monday – Thursday
9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Friday
Minneapolis Development Review
Community Planning & Economic Development
Address
Public Service Building
505 Fourth Ave. S., Room 220
Minneapolis, MN 55415
Service Center hours
Monday - Thursday
8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Friday
9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Environmental Health
Minneapolis Health Department
Phone
Address
Public Service Building
505 Fourth Ave. S., Room 520
Minneapolis, MN 55415