Opening a brewery can be a fun and rewarding business venture, but it’s important to understand the various regulations, licenses, and permits required by law. This article will help you navigate the complex web of beer industry regulations so you can open and run your brewery without any issues.
Create Your Business Name
The first step in starting any business is to come up with a clever and unique name. Once you’ve settled on a name for your brewery, you can design various marketing pieces around it and use it extensively in your business.
Obtain An EIN
After you’ve registered your business name, you’ll need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. You can apply for an EIN online, by fax, or by mail.
Get a Seller’s Permit
If you plan on selling any beer that you produce, you’ll need to obtain a seller’s permit from your state. This permit will allow you to legally sell your products within the state. To obtain a seller’s permit, you’ll need to fill out an application and submit it to your state’s revenue department.
Get a Business License
Depending on the type of business structure you’ve chosen for your brewery, you may need to obtain a business license. This license will allow you to operate your business legally. To obtain a business license, you’ll need to contact your local business licensing office and fill out an application.
Get a Liquor License
If you plan on serving alcohol at your brewery, you’ll need to obtain a liquor license from your state. This license will allow you to legally sell and serve alcohol at your establishment. To obtain a liquor license, you’ll need to contact your state’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Board and fill out an application.
Obtain A Food Handler’s License
If you plan on serving food at your brewery, you’ll need to obtain a food handler’s license from your state or permit from your city. This license will allow you to legally prepare and serve food at your establishment. To obtain a food handler’s license, you’ll need to contact your state’s health department and fill out an application.
Apply For a Brewer’s Notice
If you plan on brewing beer at your brewery, you’ll need to apply for a brewer’s notice from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). This notice will allow you to brew beer legally at your establishment. To apply for a brewer’s notice, you’ll need to fill out an application and submit it to the TTB.
Obtain a Brewer’s Bond
If you plan on brewing beer at your brewery, you’ll need to obtain a brewer’s bond from the TTB. This bond will protect the government from any losses that may occur if you don’t pay your taxes or comply with other regulations. To obtain a brewer’s bond, you’ll need to contact a surety company and fill out an application.
Know Your Local Zoning Laws and Restrictions
Before you open your brewery, it’s important to know the local zoning laws and restrictions in your area. These laws and restrictions will dictate where you can locate your business and what you can do at your establishment. To find out the zoning laws and restrictions in your area, you’ll need to contact your local zoning office and request a copy of the zoning ordinance.
Conclusion
With this information in hand, you’re ready to start the process of opening your brewery. Just remember to take your time and do your research so you can avoid any potential problems down the road.