Los Angeles Liquor License Cost
Local permits, city fees, and what to expect beyond the California state license
Licensing costs in Los Angeles
LAPD Entertainment Permit required for late-night alcohol service at establishments open after midnight. Cost: $536/year. Also requires a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) from the Department of City Planning for many locations — CUP applications cost $5,000-$15,000 and take 4-12 months.
Licensing timeline in Los Angeles
LA County's 30-day public posting period plus LAPD permit processing adds 30-45 days over the state baseline. Entertainment district locations (Sunset Strip, Hollywood) often require additional LAMC compliance review.
What buyers often miss in Los Angeles
Type 47 (full bar, restaurant) licenses trade at $60,000-$200,000 in LA County on the secondary market vs. $19,840 state application fee — particularly in West Hollywood, Silver Lake, and Downtown where quota licenses are fully allocated.
Zoning considerations for Los Angeles
Verify Planning and Zoning first — Los Angeles has Specific Plans (like Hollywood Specific Plan) that impose additional alcohol conditions. A CUP is required in most commercial zones for new on-sale general licenses.
FAQ — Los Angeles Liquor Licensing
How long does it take to get a liquor license in Los Angeles?
Expect 120 days in Los Angeles — 30 days longer than the state average. LA County's 30-day public posting period plus LAPD permit processing adds 30-45 days over the state baseline. Entertainment district locations (Sunset Strip, Hollywood) often require additional LAMC compliance review.
Does Los Angeles require a separate city liquor license?
Yes. Los Angeles requires a City of Los Angeles Police Permit in addition to the California state license. LAPD Entertainment Permit required for late-night alcohol service at establishments open after midnight. Cost: $536/year. Also requires a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) from the Department of City Planning for many locations — CUP applications cost $5,000-$15,000 and take 4-12 months.
What zoning do I need for a bar or restaurant in Los Angeles?
Verify Planning and Zoning first — Los Angeles has Specific Plans (like Hollywood Specific Plan) that impose additional alcohol conditions. A CUP is required in most commercial zones for new on-sale general licenses.
Local licensing resources for Los Angeles
California State License — Full Details
City requirements are only part of the picture. See all license types, fees, and state-level requirements for California.
California liquor license guide →