Common questions about starting an alcohol business

See answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about starting a new alcohol business.

FAQs and answers

How do I find an alcohol license application?

See New business applications. Our application forms include checklists of what you need to do to get an alcohol license.

How can I find my ward and City Council Member?

Search for your address in Find my ward

 

Where can I find City rules about alcohol licenses?

See the Minneapolis Code of Ordinances, Title 14: Liquor and Beer

How does the City enforce these rules?

Inspectors do routine and complaint inspections. They:

  • Use a checklist for enforcement and accountability.
  • Work days, evenings and weekends

How long does it take to get an alcohol license in Minneapolis?

About eight to ten weeks. Note that the timeline:

  • Starts from the day you submit your complete application and pay your fees
  • May vary based on the complexity of your application

Both the City and the State must approve your alcohol application.

Do you have a City Council calendar with meeting dates?

View our meeting schedule

If you attend a public hearing, you may tell the City Council about your new business.  

Find your license inspector

Contact your license inspector if you have more questions.

Contact us

Business Licenses & Consumer Services

Address

Public Service Building
505 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

Phone

612-673-3000

Relay service

612-673-3000

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. 

Minneapolis 311

Phone

311 or 612-673-3000

Relay service

612-673-3000

Hours

7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Monday – Friday

See list of City holidays

Environmental Health

Minneapolis Health Department

Phone

612-673-2301

Address

Public Service Building
505 Fourth Ave. S., Room 520
Minneapolis, MN 55415

Planning and Zoning

Community Planning & Economic Development (CPED)

Phone

612-673-3000

Address

Public Service Building
505 Fourth Ave. S., Room 320
Minneapolis, MN 55415