Savannah Liquor License Cost
Local permits, city fees, and what to expect beyond the Georgia state license
Licensing costs in Savannah
Savannah charges $3,500/year for a pouring license (distilled spirits, on-premise) and $1,200/year for beer and wine only. Package store licenses cost $5,000/year. Savannah is one of only a few U.S. cities with an open-container district — the Historic District allows to-go cups from licensed bars, which creates a unique licensing dynamic where bars compete for pedestrian traffic. An annual occupation tax certificate ($150) is also required.
Licensing timeline in Savannah
Savannah processes alcohol license applications through the Revenue Department, typically in 45–60 days. Applications in the Historic District require additional review by the Historic District Board of Review if any exterior modifications are planned. Savannah's open-container tourism economy means the city processes more bar licenses per capita than most Georgia cities, so the process is well-oiled.
What buyers often miss in Savannah
Georgia is an open-licensing state — no quota system, no secondary market. However, Savannah's Historic District has limited commercial space, and lease premiums for bar-zoned storefronts run $30–$50/SF, 2-3x the rate outside the district. The license itself is cheap; the real barrier is securing a Historic District location with existing bar zoning.
Zoning considerations for Savannah
Savannah's Historic District is governed by the Savannah Zoning Ordinance with specific provisions for alcohol establishments. New bars within the Landmark Historic District require Historic District Board of Review approval for any exterior signage or modifications. The Starland District and Plant Riverside areas have more permissive commercial zoning. Distance requirements: 200 feet from churches and schools (measured door-to-door).
FAQ — Savannah Liquor Licensing
How long does it take to get a liquor license in Savannah?
Expect 60 days in Savannah — 15 days longer than the state average. Savannah processes alcohol license applications through the Revenue Department, typically in 45–60 days. Applications in the Historic District require additional review by the Historic District Board of Review if any exterior modifications are planned. Savannah's open-container tourism economy means the city processes more bar licenses per capita than most Georgia cities, so the process is well-oiled.
Does Savannah require a separate city liquor license?
Yes. Savannah requires a City of Savannah Alcoholic Beverage License in addition to the Georgia state license. Savannah charges $3,500/year for a pouring license (distilled spirits, on-premise) and $1,200/year for beer and wine only. Package store licenses cost $5,000/year. Savannah is one of only a few U.S. cities with an open-container district — the Historic District allows to-go cups from licensed bars, which creates a unique licensing dynamic where bars compete for pedestrian traffic. An annual occupation tax certificate ($150) is also required.
What zoning do I need for a bar or restaurant in Savannah?
Savannah's Historic District is governed by the Savannah Zoning Ordinance with specific provisions for alcohol establishments. New bars within the Landmark Historic District require Historic District Board of Review approval for any exterior signage or modifications. The Starland District and Plant Riverside areas have more permissive commercial zoning. Distance requirements: 200 feet from churches and schools (measured door-to-door).
Local licensing resources for Savannah
Georgia State License — Full Details
City requirements are only part of the picture. See all license types, fees, and state-level requirements for Georgia.
Georgia liquor license guide →