Montgomery County Liquor License Cost
Local permits, city fees, and what to expect beyond the Maryland state license
Licensing costs in Montgomery County
Montgomery County is Maryland's only control county. The county government operates all retail liquor stores. Restaurants and bars can get on-premise licenses but cannot sell packaged alcohol. Class B license ~$2,500/year.
Licensing timeline in Montgomery County
Montgomery County's Board meets quarterly. Application timing relative to meeting dates determines whether you wait 30 days or 120 days.
What buyers often miss in Montgomery County
No formal secondary market. However, buying an existing business with a license is common. Expect $20,000-$50,000 of implicit license value in Bethesda, Silver Spring, or Rockville business purchases.
Zoning considerations for Montgomery County
Bethesda, Silver Spring, and Pike District are primary restaurant/bar corridors. Strict zoning requires specific use categories for alcohol service.
FAQ — Montgomery County Liquor Licensing
How long does it take to get a liquor license in Montgomery County?
Expect 120 days in Montgomery County — 30 days longer than the state average. Montgomery County's Board meets quarterly. Application timing relative to meeting dates determines whether you wait 30 days or 120 days.
Does Montgomery County require a separate city liquor license?
Yes. Montgomery County requires a Montgomery County Board of License Commissioners Permit in addition to the Maryland state license. Montgomery County is Maryland's only control county. The county government operates all retail liquor stores. Restaurants and bars can get on-premise licenses but cannot sell packaged alcohol. Class B license ~$2,500/year.
What zoning do I need for a bar or restaurant in Montgomery County?
Bethesda, Silver Spring, and Pike District are primary restaurant/bar corridors. Strict zoning requires specific use categories for alcohol service.
Local licensing resources for Montgomery County
Maryland State License — Full Details
City requirements are only part of the picture. See all license types, fees, and state-level requirements for Maryland.
Maryland liquor license guide →