Fort Worth Liquor License Cost
Local permits, city fees, and what to expect beyond the Texas state license
Licensing costs in Fort Worth
Fort Worth requires a local alcohol beverage license in addition to the TABC permit. The local license fee ranges from $100–$500 depending on type (beer/wine only vs. mixed beverages). The city also charges a $200 late-night permit fee for establishments serving past midnight. Fort Worth's Stockyards Entertainment District has streamlined permitting but additional noise ordinance requirements.
Licensing timeline in Fort Worth
Fort Worth TABC processing runs at state average (~45 days), but the city's Development Services zoning verification adds 15-30 days. Stockyards district applications receive expedited review. Near West 7th Street or Sundance Square, expect community notification periods that can add 2-3 weeks.
What buyers often miss in Fort Worth
Texas is an open-licensing state — no quota, no secondary market for TABC permits. The real cost is the 14.95% mixed beverage gross receipts tax, which runs $20,000–$80,000/year for a busy Fort Worth bar. Combined with the $5,300 initial TABC Mixed Beverage Permit fee, first-year total licensing cost for a full-bar restaurant in Fort Worth runs $8,000–$12,000 including city fees.
Zoning considerations for Fort Worth
Fort Worth uses a Unified Development Code with alcohol-specific overlay districts. The Near Southside and West 7th corridors have Form-Based codes that allow bars by right. Locations within 300 feet of a church, school, or hospital require a TABC variance. The Stockyards Heritage District has special rules — outdoor alcohol service is permitted in designated areas without additional permits.
FAQ — Fort Worth Liquor Licensing
How long does it take to get a liquor license in Fort Worth?
Expect 75 days in Fort Worth — 15 days longer than the state average. Fort Worth TABC processing runs at state average (~45 days), but the city's Development Services zoning verification adds 15-30 days. Stockyards district applications receive expedited review. Near West 7th Street or Sundance Square, expect community notification periods that can add 2-3 weeks.
Does Fort Worth require a separate city liquor license?
Yes. Fort Worth requires a City of Fort Worth Alcohol Beverage License in addition to the Texas state license. Fort Worth requires a local alcohol beverage license in addition to the TABC permit. The local license fee ranges from $100–$500 depending on type (beer/wine only vs. mixed beverages). The city also charges a $200 late-night permit fee for establishments serving past midnight. Fort Worth's Stockyards Entertainment District has streamlined permitting but additional noise ordinance requirements.
What zoning do I need for a bar or restaurant in Fort Worth?
Fort Worth uses a Unified Development Code with alcohol-specific overlay districts. The Near Southside and West 7th corridors have Form-Based codes that allow bars by right. Locations within 300 feet of a church, school, or hospital require a TABC variance. The Stockyards Heritage District has special rules — outdoor alcohol service is permitted in designated areas without additional permits.
Local licensing resources for Fort Worth
Texas State License — Full Details
City requirements are only part of the picture. See all license types, fees, and state-level requirements for Texas.
Texas liquor license guide →