If you’re starting a bar, hosting events, running a club, or operating a hotel in Fort Worth, Texas, one of your first steps should be securing the right alcohol license in Fort Worth. The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) regulates alcohol sales statewide, and Fort Worth adds local rules and fees on top. This guide explains the types of licenses, steps to obtain one, costs involved, and how to handle zoning and inspections—so you can serve drinks legally and confidently.

For hands-on assistance, visit our Fort Worth alcohol licensing services page.

Types of Liquor Licenses in Fort Worth

Here are the main license types you may need:

Bar Liquor License Fort Worth

This license is for establishments primarily serving alcoholic drinks on-site. Common permits include Beer & Wine Retailer’s Permit (BG) and Mixed Beverage Permit (MB).

Event Liquor License Fort Worth

If you’re organizing a festival, fundraiser, wedding, or other one-time event with alcohol, you’ll need a temporary event permit from TABC.

Club Liquor License Fort Worth

Private clubs—like veterans’ organizations or social clubs—require a specific permit to serve members and guests.

Hotel Liquor License Fort Worth

Hotels offering room service, lounges, or banquet alcohol need layered permits covering all areas they serve.

Alcohol License Fort Worth

A general term covering all alcohol-related permits (beer, wine, mixed beverages) required for sale or service.

The Licensing Process

1. Determine the Right Permit

Choose the license that fits your business model—bar, event, club, or hotel. For help, check our Fort Worth licensing page.

2. Check Zoning & Distance Rules

Fort Worth requires a location verification process involving a distance check (usually $50) and zoning approval wilsonlegalgroup.com+2koronapos.com+2tabc.texas.gov+2fortworthtexas.gov.

3. Prepare Documentation

You’ll need:

• TABC application forms
• Business registration and entity documents
• Property lease or deed
• Zoning and distance verification forms
• Personal ID and background information

4. Local Approval

Submit your forms to Fort Worth City Hall (Zoning Counter → Revenue Office → City Secretary). The city may charge a fee up to half the state TABC fee fortworthtexas.gov+2fortworthtexas.gov+2tarrantcountytx.gov+2.

5. Submit to TABC

Complete the state application via the Alcohol Industry Management System or on paper; publish a 60-day notice if required wilsonlegalgroup.com+11tabc.texas.gov+11tabc.texas.gov+11.

6. Inspection & Bond

TABC may inspect your premises. Some permits (e.g., Mixed Beverage) require a surety bond.

7. Final Approval & Renewal

Processing time is generally 30–60 days tabc.texas.gov+10tabc.texas.gov+10tabc.texas.gov+10. Licenses are valid for two years before renewal is needed.

License Costs in Fort Worth

Costs vary depending on license type:

• Beer & Wine Retailer’s Permit (BG): ~$1,900 every two years tarrantcountytx.gov+2tabc.texas.gov+2tabc.texas.gov+2koronapos.com+9tabccertificationcourses.com+9tarrantcountytx.gov+9tarrantcountytx.gov+4tabc.texas.gov+4koronapos.com+4
• Mixed Beverage Permit (MB): ~$5,300 for the original two‑year term tabc.texas.gov+1koronapos.com+1
• Temporary Event Permit: $50–$250 per event
• Bond: Usually several hundred dollars, depending on bond amount
• Local Zoning & Distance Check: $50
• City Permit Fees: Up to half of state TABC fee tabc.texas.govpos.toasttab.com+14fortworthtexas.gov+14fortworthtexas.gov+14

For precise pricing and planning, visit our Fort Worth license cost page.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Skipping zoning or distance checks early
• Applying for the wrong type of license
• Forgetting the 60-day public notice
• Delaying bond purchases
• Underestimating city fees

Ensuring accuracy early helps avoid costly delays.

Why Partner With a Consultant?

TABC licensing involves both state and local processes. A trained guide helps you:

• Choose the correct permit
• Complete forms and documentation
• Handle zoning and bonding
• Meet deadlines
• Avoid procedural errors

At Texas Alcohol Consulting, we streamline licensing for bars, hotels, clubs, and events—so you can focus on opening your doors.

Quick Reference: License Checklist

Final Take

Securing a bar liquor license Fort Worth, event liquor license Fort Worth, club liquor license Fort Worth, or hotel liquor license Fort Worth requires planning, paperwork, and patience. By understanding TABC requirements and Fort Worth’s local process, you can obtain your alcohol license in Fort Worth efficiently.

Visit our Fort Worth licensing page today to get started—and let us help you open your doors with confidence.