WHY EVERY ALCOHOL BUSINESS IN SOUTH AFRICA NEEDS A LIQUOR LICENSE — AND HOW TO GET IT RIGHT.
- JOHN COMNINOS
- Jul 31
- 2 min read
Thinking of launching a bar, stocking your store with your favourite craft wines, or hosting a music festival with flowing cocktails? Whatever your alcohol-related venture, there’s one thing you absolutely can’t overlook: a valid liquor license.
In South Africa, selling or serving alcohol without a license is not just frowned upon—it’s illegal, with the National Liquor Act 59 of 2003 setting strict guidelines. Ignore them, and you could face hefty fines or even jail time.
But legality aside, a liquor license is your passport to legitimacy, growth, and opportunity. Here’s why:
What Makes a Liquor License So Important?
Legitimacy & Trust
Your customers, suppliers, and potential investors want to know you’re the real deal. A liquor license builds instant credibility—no shady backdoor sales or grey areas.
Stay Compliant (and Stay Open!)
No one wants their doors shut by authorities or slapped with legal bills. Being compliant keeps your operations smooth and stress-free.
Expand Your Market
Want to cater to sit-down diners and take-home drinkers? Or perhaps distribute your wine range to other retailers? A proper license unlocks new revenue streams.
Boost Your Bottom Line
Alcohol sales can be a game-changer for hospitality and retail businesses. Done right, it’s a high-margin revenue channel you don’t want to miss out on.
Types of Liquor Licenses in SA — Which One Do You Need?
Before you apply, it’s crucial to choose the right category for your business:
On-Premises License: For bars, restaurants, hotels—where alcohol is consumed on-site.
Off-Premises License: For bottle stores or supermarkets selling for home use.
Special Events License: Planning a festival, wedding, or public event? This one's for short-term, one-off occasions.
Manufacturing License: Running a distillery, microbrewery, or wine farm? You’ll need this to produce alcohol legally.
Wholesale License: Selling in bulk to other licensed businesses? This license lets you distribute to the broader market.
Bonus Tip: You may need a combo of licenses depending on your business model—e.g., a bar that sells take-home bottles may require both an on- and off-premises license.
Who Governs Liquor Licenses in SA?
Licensing is regulated by the National Liquor Authority (NLA) under the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC).
Their responsibilities include:
Issuing and renewing liquor licenses
Enforcing compliance with the Liquor Act
Investigating and suspending licenses for non-compliance
The application process can be complex and time-consuming, with requirements that vary between provinces—and that’s where we come in.
How We Can Help
At Comninos Incorporated, we take the headache out of liquor licensing. From new applications to renewals, we assist:
Entrepreneurs launching new liquor-related businesses
Event organisers needing short-term licenses
Breweries, distilleries, restaurants, bottle stores—you name it
Our legal team ensures you're 100% compliant, saving you time, stress, and money in the long run.
Ready to Raise a Glass the Legal Way?
Don’t let paperwork or red tape hold your business back. Whether you're opening a pub, bottling your first vintage, or throwing the party of the year—we’ll help you get licensed, legally and efficiently.
Contact us today at 072 899 8596 orEmail us john@comninoslaw.co.za to begin your liquor license journey.
Comninos Incorporated —LAW FOR LIFE. And for your next great business venture.