New Orleans Liquor License Cost
Local permits, city fees, and what to expect beyond the Louisiana state license
Licensing costs in New Orleans
New Orleans requires an Orleans Parish ABO (Alcoholic Beverage Outlet) license in addition to the state Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control (ATC) license. Vieux Carré (French Quarter) establishments need an additional French Quarter permit from the Vieux Carré Commission. Annual parish ABO fee: $350-$600. VCC permit: $150-$400 depending on license type.
Licensing timeline in New Orleans
Louisiana ATC processing is 30-60 days. Orleans Parish ABO review and City Planning Commission coordination adds 2-4 weeks. French Quarter applications require additional VCC approval (quarterly meetings), potentially extending the timeline to 90-120 days for properties in the VCC jurisdiction.
What buyers often miss in New Orleans
Louisiana is not a quota state — licenses are issued based on application merit. However, New Orleans has a unique environment: the city has more bars per capita than almost any US city, and Bourbon Street and French Quarter locations carry significant premium business sale values driven by tourism traffic rather than license scarcity.
Zoning considerations for New Orleans
New Orleans City Planning Commission coordinates with ATC on all new ABO applications. French Quarter: all exterior changes (signage, awnings, storefronts) require Vieux Carré Commission approval before ABO issuance. Garden District, Magazine Street, and Mid-City applications may need Conditional Use Permits depending on proximity to residential properties.
FAQ — New Orleans Liquor Licensing
How long does it take to get a liquor license in New Orleans?
Expect 60 days in New Orleans — 15 days longer than the state average. Louisiana ATC processing is 30-60 days. Orleans Parish ABO review and City Planning Commission coordination adds 2-4 weeks. French Quarter applications require additional VCC approval (quarterly meetings), potentially extending the timeline to 90-120 days for properties in the VCC jurisdiction.
Does New Orleans require a separate city liquor license?
Yes. New Orleans requires a Orleans Parish ABO License + Vieux Carré Permits in addition to the Louisiana state license. New Orleans requires an Orleans Parish ABO (Alcoholic Beverage Outlet) license in addition to the state Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control (ATC) license. Vieux Carré (French Quarter) establishments need an additional French Quarter permit from the Vieux Carré Commission. Annual parish ABO fee: $350-$600. VCC permit: $150-$400 depending on license type.
What zoning do I need for a bar or restaurant in New Orleans?
New Orleans City Planning Commission coordinates with ATC on all new ABO applications. French Quarter: all exterior changes (signage, awnings, storefronts) require Vieux Carré Commission approval before ABO issuance. Garden District, Magazine Street, and Mid-City applications may need Conditional Use Permits depending on proximity to residential properties.
Local licensing resources for New Orleans
Louisiana State License — Full Details
City requirements are only part of the picture. See all license types, fees, and state-level requirements for Louisiana.
Louisiana liquor license guide →