For entrepreneurs in San Bernardino County looking to start a business that serves or sells alcohol, obtaining a liquor license is a necessary first step. Whether you’re opening a cozy wine bar, a restaurant, or a liquor store, it’s essential to understand the specific costs and requirements for liquor licenses in this county to budget effectively and ensure a smooth licensing process.

Types of Liquor Licenses in San Bernardino County

The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) regulates liquor licenses statewide, with license types and costs varying based on the nature of the business. Here’s an overview of the most common licenses and their approximate costs in San Bernardino County:

• Type 20 License (Off-Sale Beer & Wine License): This license permits stores to sell beer and wine for off-site consumption, making it ideal for convenience and grocery stores. In San Bernardino County, a Type 20 license typically costs $7,000, plus additional broker and escrow fees.
• Type 21 License (Off-Sale General License): Allowing the sale of all types of alcohol for off-premises consumption, this license is often held by liquor stores. The Type 21 license costs in San Bernardino County generally range from $24,000 to $25,000, with added fees for escrow and ABC transfers.

Recent Sales:
License 477455 sold 9/27/2024 for $25,000
License 477454 sold 9/5/2024 for $25,000
License 43133 sold 8/14/2024 for $25,000

• Type 47/48 License (On-Sale General License): Commonly required by restaurants and bars, these licenses allow the sale of beer, wine, and spirits for on-site consumption. Due to their demand in hospitality-focused areas of San Bernardino County, Type 47 and Type 48 licenses can range from $70,000 to $75,000.

Recent Sales:
License 627670 sold 9/29/2024 for $75,000
License 636033 sold 9/29/2024 for $70,000
License 625695 sold 9/11/2024 for $75,000

Typical Costs of San Bernardino County Liquor Licenses

Below is a summary of the typical cost ranges for liquor licenses in San Bernardino County:

• Type 20 License: $7,000
• Type 21 License: $24,000–$25,000
• Type 47/48 License: $70,000–$75,000

 

Factors Influencing Liquor License Costs in San Bernardino County

Several key factors influence the cost of liquor licenses in San Bernardino County, including:

Supply and Demand

San Bernardino’s diverse range of business districts means that demand can vary by area. Popular regions or neighborhoods with high concentrations of entertainment venues or hospitality businesses often see increased competition for liquor licenses, which can drive prices up.

Additional Fees for Brokers and Escrow

If you’re purchasing a license on the open market through a broker, plan for added fees. Brokers typically charge a percentage of the license price or a flat fee for lower-cost licenses, while escrow fees vary based on the company managing the transaction.

License Transfer Costs

In cases where an existing business transfers a liquor license to a new owner, the California ABC requires a transfer fee. These fees generally range from $1,000 to $3,500, depending on the specific license type. Additionally, transfer times can take several months, so early planning is essential.

Choosing the Right Liquor License for Your San Bernardino County Business

Understanding your business’s needs is essential in selecting the appropriate liquor license. A thorough knowledge of the options available will ensure that you choose the right license to support your establishment’s growth and compliance in San Bernardino County’s market.

License Locators: Your Partner for Liquor Licenses in San Bernardino County

Navigating the licensing process can be complex, but our team at License Locators is here to help. From identifying the correct license type to managing escrow and transfer fees, we’ll guide you every step of the way. We specialize in helping businesses throughout California, including San Bernardino County, secure the right liquor license so they can start serving customers without delay. Reach out today to learn how we can assist you in obtaining the license your business needs.

Values listed are a reasonable approximation based on sale trend information.
Prices fluctuate on a daily bases for current values contact our office.