Memphis Liquor License Cost
Local permits, city fees, and what to expect beyond the Tennessee state license
Licensing costs in Memphis
Tennessee has a split licensing structure: spirits (liquor) are licensed by the Tennessee ABC Commission at the state level, but beer is licensed locally by the Shelby County Beer Board. Memphis businesses typically need both. Beale Street Entertainment District applications go through the Memphis Center City Development Corporation in addition to standard licensing.
Licensing timeline in Memphis
Tennessee ABC runs 75-90 days for spirits. Shelby County Beer Board meets monthly — missing a board date adds 30 days. Beale Street and Downtown Memphis face parallel CCDC review, making 100-120 days realistic for entertainment venues.
What buyers often miss in Memphis
Tennessee does not operate a quota system for most license types. Spirits licenses transfer at modest premiums ($5,000-$20,000) based primarily on existing customer base and lease value rather than license scarcity.
Zoning considerations for Memphis
Memphis enforces Tennessee's 250-foot buffer from churches and 100 feet from schools. Beale Street has a Planned Development Overlay that supersedes standard setback rules — entertainment businesses within the PD are effectively exempt from the church/school restrictions.
FAQ — Memphis Liquor Licensing
How long does it take to get a liquor license in Memphis?
Expect 100 days in Memphis — 20 days longer than the state average. Tennessee ABC runs 75-90 days for spirits. Shelby County Beer Board meets monthly — missing a board date adds 30 days. Beale Street and Downtown Memphis face parallel CCDC review, making 100-120 days realistic for entertainment venues.
Does Memphis require a separate city liquor license?
Yes. Memphis requires a Shelby County Beer Board Permit in addition to the Tennessee state license. Tennessee has a split licensing structure: spirits (liquor) are licensed by the Tennessee ABC Commission at the state level, but beer is licensed locally by the Shelby County Beer Board. Memphis businesses typically need both. Beale Street Entertainment District applications go through the Memphis Center City Development Corporation in addition to standard licensing.
What zoning do I need for a bar or restaurant in Memphis?
Memphis enforces Tennessee's 250-foot buffer from churches and 100 feet from schools. Beale Street has a Planned Development Overlay that supersedes standard setback rules — entertainment businesses within the PD are effectively exempt from the church/school restrictions.
Local licensing resources for Memphis
Tennessee State License — Full Details
City requirements are only part of the picture. See all license types, fees, and state-level requirements for Tennessee.
Tennessee liquor license guide →