Selling alcohol

Businesses that wish to sell alcohol in Northern Ireland must apply for a liquor licence from the county court.

Who can apply for a liquor licence?

Certain types of premises, such as pubs, restaurants and hotels, can apply for a licence to sell alcohol. Only the business owner can apply for the licence.

Local producers of beer, cider and spirits can now apply for a licence to sell their products from their premises on an off-sales and an on-sales basis. Cinemas have also been added to the places of public entertainment category of premises which can apply for a licence.

You must prove you are fit to hold the licence. You will need to disclose any relevant criminal convictions. The court will consider your reputation, financial standing and ability to run the business. It will also take into account your staff's experience and qualifications.

You must also show that your premises are a suitable place to sell alcohol. You must send a plan of the premises along with your application.

How to apply for a liquor licence

You can apply for a licence at your county court.

Before you apply, you must:

• publish a notice in at least two local newspapers of your intention to apply for a licence, at least two weeks (but not more than six) before the opening of the court sitting
• notify the local police station and the local council of your intention to apply for a licence, at least three weeks before the opening of the court sitting
• display a notice on or near your premises stating your intention to apply during three weeks before the opening of the court sitting

If your business is a hotel, guest house or conference centre, you will need to be certified by Tourism NI and obtain a licensing letter before you apply for your liquor licence.

How liquor licences are granted to pubs and off-licences

For applications for pubs and off-licences, the county court will decide to grant your licence based on a number of conditions. The court will only grant a licence if either:

• there is a lack of similar facilities in the local area
• an existing licence has been surrendered or will be surrendered

Renewing your liquor licence

Licences to sell alcohol are granted for up to five years. You must apply to the magistrates' court to renew your licence before the deadline every five years. The current licensing period will end on 30 September 2027. Any alterations to your premises will affect your renewal application.

Occasional licence

If you hold a pub, hotel or restaurant licence, you can also apply for an occasional licence to sell alcohol at functions away from your premises. For example, a local pub or restaurant may apply to sell alcohol at a food festival. If granted, the occasional licence may be valid for up to six consecutive days.

Selling alcohol without a licence

Selling alcohol without a licence is illegal. You could be fined up to £5,000 or face up to six months in prison, or both, if found guilty.