Santa Barbara County, with its blend of picturesque coastline, vibrant nightlife, and world-class dining, is an ideal location for businesses selling or serving alcohol. Securing the appropriate liquor license is a crucial step in operating legally and successfully in this competitive market. At License Locators, we specialize in guiding businesses through the process of buying or selling liquor licenses, making it straightforward and stress-free.

Types of Liquor Licenses in Santa Barbara County

Santa Barbara County offers a range of liquor licenses tailored to different business needs. Below is an overview of the most common license types and their associated costs:

Type 20 License (Off-Sale Beer and Wine)

Type 20 licenses permit the sale of beer and wine for off-premises consumption. Ideal for convenience stores, retail shops, and beer and wine specialty shops, the cost of a Type 20 license is currently $5,000 across California, including Santa Barbara County. Additional fees for escrow and license transfers may apply.

Type 21 License (Off-Sale General)

Type 21 licenses allow businesses to sell beer, wine, and distilled spirits for off-premises consumption. These licenses are essential for liquor stores and retail outlets in Santa Barbara County. Costs typically range from $165,000 to $180,000, reflecting the county’s high demand and competitive market.

Santa Barbara County Off-Sale License Comps:
License 527993 sold 5/9/2024 for $165,000
License 512602 sold 5/18/2024 for $180,000
License 540123 sold 7/11/2019 for $180,000

Type 47/48 License (On-Sale General for restaurants, bars, and nightclubs)

Type 47 licenses are required for restaurants that wish to serve beer, wine, and spirits for on-premises consumption. With Santa Barbara County’s strong reputation for fine dining, particularly in areas like Santa Barbara and Solvang, demand for these licenses is high. Type 48 licenses are ideal for bars, nightclubs, and lounges where alcohol is served without requiring food service. These licenses are particularly sought after in Santa Barbara County’s thriving nightlife scene. Costs generally range from $300,000 to $375,000.

Santa Barbara County On-Sale License Comps for Restaurants, Bars, and Nightclubs:
License 290551 sold 9/23/2024 for $375,000
License 441367 sold 8/8/2024 for $375,000
License 657216 sold 5/1/2024 for $300,000 

Factors Influencing Liquor License Costs in Santa Barbara County

Several factors contribute to liquor license costs in Santa Barbara County:

• Tourism and Nightlife:
  Santa Barbara’s status as a tourist destination drives demand for liquor licenses, particularly in areas known for entertainment and dining.
• Limited License Availability:
  California Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) imposes strict quotas on liquor licenses, which can make certain license types more competitive and costly.
• Additional Transaction Fees:
  When buying a liquor license, businesses should consider escrow and transfer fees, typically ranging from $1,500 to $3,500.

How License Locators Can Help

Navigating the liquor license process in Santa Barbara County can be complex, but License Locators is here to help. From identifying the right license for your business to handling paperwork and ensuring compliance with ABC regulations, we provide a full suite of services to make the process as smooth as possible.

Contact License Locators Today

If you’re ready to secure a liquor license in Santa Barbara County, License Locators is your trusted partner. Whether you’re opening a restaurant in Santa Barbara, a bar in Goleta, or a retail shop in Solvang, we’re here to assist. Contact us today to learn more and take the first step toward obtaining your liquor license.

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