Special Events Liquor License/ Occasional Event Permit.
Do you need a special event permit?
In order to sell alcohol at a special event you are required to have a special event permit. You are required to obtain certain consents and comply with what is laid down in the Act. Failure to do so can result in a fine or penalties being imposed on the seller/event organizer, alcohol being confiscated as well as a bad reputation for the event/event organizer. In this article we discuss the procedure and requirements for applying for a special events liquor license.
Application for Special event permit
Application may be made for a special event permit under the various Acts that govern the various provinces. This section is governed by section 31 in Gauteng, but section 39(c) in KZN. The application with all required attachment must be lodged at least 14 working days before the event. In certain provinces, such as KZN, application for a special events permit cannot be lodged at a regional office. The application can be lodged any day of the week but must be lodged in the offices of the Liquor Authorities in Durban.
Attachments required for a special event permit
You will be given a reference number on which to make the lodgment payment on, from the liquor authorities. Proof of such payment must be attached to the application.
You need a number of consents starting with the landlord’s consent. This is referred to as Proof of Lawful Occupation. Whoever owns the venue where the special event will take place must in writing consent to the sale of alcohol. In many cases, special events are hosted on sports grounds or stadiums where the local municipality is the custodian. Consent for both the event and the sale of alcohol must be obtained.
For extra safety and caution, we recommend also getting a situational report from the SAPS. In order to get this report, a complete copy of your application must be submitted to the local police liquor officer. The event itself need to be risk categorized in terms of section 6. The event organizer must apply for this before the event can take place even if no alcohol will be sold at the event.
Now you will need a detailed floor plan showing the lay out of your stall. Storage and toilet facilities must be clearly shown on the floor plan. Sizes, entry & exit as well as cordoned off bar area must also be clearly marked on this plan. In KZN, a Security plan together with completed annexure T must also accompany your application.
You must also motivate to why the application should be granted. Attach a certified copy of your ID or CIPC documentation and company resolution if you are applying as a company, and you are ready to lodge.
CONCLUSION
Do not wait until the last minute. It takes time to obtain all the consents and prepare application. Should you be in a residential area you should start with your application at least 3 months before the event.
Be a refreshing host with the most. Let us help you get that Events’ special permit.
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