Permit FAQs

If I currently hold a license, can I qualify for a permit to serve alcoholic beverages at an event located off my licensed premises?

You may apply for a Catering Permit. This permit authorizes an on-premises licensee (other license categories do not apply) to furnish alcoholic beverages allowed by their license at events located off the licensed premises.

Note: The Catering Permit is also available to a Club licensee with some additional restrictions.

If I do not have a license, can I get a permit to serve alcoholic beverages at a function or event?

You have two options for getting a permit:

• Option 1: You can apply for a Temporary Beer & Wine Permit (aka: TPA); however, you cannot serve liquor under the restrictions of this permit.
• Option 2: You can hire a licensed caterer to provide the food and alcohol at the event.

When I receive a Temporary Beer & Wine Permit, where am I allowed to purchase the beer and wine?

Beer and wine must be purchased from a licensed brewer, winery, or wholesaler. Purchasing the beer from a grocery store and the wine from a liquor store is prohibited.

If I am a club licensee, when can I serve alcoholic beverages to a person other than members and their accompanying guests?

This is allowed when the Club applies for a Caterer’s Permit authorizing them to hold a particular function, occasion or event. A caterer’s permit is not required when the function is hosted by and funds are provided by a club member.

Is a permit required to transport alcoholic beverages through New York State?

For pick-ups and deliveries of alcoholic beverages within NYS, an individual trucking permit is required for each truck in use, or if 100 or more trucks are involved, a Fleet blanket permit is available.

Can I have a Wine Auction?

Yes, provided you are a bona-fide charitable, religious, educational, or civic group, auctioning donated alcohol for fundraising purposes. You must apply for a Charitable Permit to auction no more than 80 cases of wine, in sealed containers.