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
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1. Choose License | Bar, event, club, or hotel permit—check our Fort Worth page |
| 2. Zoning Checks | Distance form, $50 fee, City approval tabc.texas.gov+2tabccertificationcourses.com+2koronapos.com+2fortworthtexas.goven.wikipedia.org+12tabc.texas.gov+12tabc.texas.gov+12 |
| 3. Documentation | Applications, IDs, business documents, leases |
| 4. TABC Application | Submit via AIMS or by mail; public notice if required |
| 5. Inspection & Bond | Prepare for site review; get a surety bond if needed |
| 6. City Fees | Pay up to 50% of state fee at City Hall |
| 7. Final Approval | Wait 30–60 days for TABC and city sign-off |
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.