Allentown Liquor License Cost
Local permits, city fees, and what to expect beyond the Pennsylvania state license
Licensing costs in Allentown
Allentown requires a Business Privilege License ($75–$100/year) from the City's Bureau of Licensing. A Certificate of Occupancy from the Department of Building Standards & Safety is required before PLCB finalizes approval. No separate city liquor fee — all alcohol licensing is through the PLCB. NIZ-located establishments should also coordinate with ANIZDA for tax credit documentation.
Licensing timeline in Allentown
Pennsylvania PLCB processes Allentown applications in 60-90 days. Allentown's NIZ (Neighborhood Improvement Zone) downtown has driven a wave of new bar and restaurant openings — PLCB is familiar with the market and application volume is rising. The NIZ's tax incentives attract operators but haven't materially shortened licensing timelines.
What buyers often miss in Allentown
Pennsylvania's quota system applies in Allentown (Lehigh County: 1 R license per 3,000 population). Secondary market prices are notably lower than Philadelphia or Pittsburgh: $15,000–$35,000 for Restaurant Liquor Licenses in Lehigh County, reflecting the lower commercial rents and population base. Beer licenses remain the non-quota alternative at ~$2,000/year.
Zoning considerations for Allentown
Allentown's Zoning Ordinance permits bars and restaurants in most Central Business District (CBD) and Neighborhood Business (NB) zones. The downtown NIZ overlay does not modify standard PLCB zoning compliance requirements. A 300-foot separation from schools and churches applies statewide.
FAQ — Allentown Liquor Licensing
How long does it take to get a liquor license in Allentown?
Expect 75 days in Allentown — 15 days longer than the state average. Pennsylvania PLCB processes Allentown applications in 60-90 days. Allentown's NIZ (Neighborhood Improvement Zone) downtown has driven a wave of new bar and restaurant openings — PLCB is familiar with the market and application volume is rising. The NIZ's tax incentives attract operators but haven't materially shortened licensing timelines.
Does Allentown require a separate city liquor license?
Yes. Allentown requires a City of Allentown Business Privilege License + Building Certificate of Occupancy in addition to the Pennsylvania state license. Allentown requires a Business Privilege License ($75–$100/year) from the City's Bureau of Licensing. A Certificate of Occupancy from the Department of Building Standards & Safety is required before PLCB finalizes approval. No separate city liquor fee — all alcohol licensing is through the PLCB. NIZ-located establishments should also coordinate with ANIZDA for tax credit documentation.
What zoning do I need for a bar or restaurant in Allentown?
Allentown's Zoning Ordinance permits bars and restaurants in most Central Business District (CBD) and Neighborhood Business (NB) zones. The downtown NIZ overlay does not modify standard PLCB zoning compliance requirements. A 300-foot separation from schools and churches applies statewide.
Local licensing resources for Allentown
Pennsylvania State License — Full Details
City requirements are only part of the picture. See all license types, fees, and state-level requirements for Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania liquor license guide →