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Liquor License Registration in Haryana: Types, Cost, and Procedure

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The sale of Liquor in Haryana has reached an all-time high with increasing demands that require more players to participate, and it is always a profit-making business in volume. To successfully operate a restaurant with a bar facility, obtaining a liquor license in Haryana is mandatory. Also, if you are a business intending to manufacture, distribute, or sell alcoholic beverages, getting a liquor license is mandatory. The process is governed by the Haryana Liquor License Rules, 1970, and the Haryana Excise Act, 1914, with periodic amendments to adapt to changing business environments.

This complete guide outlines the types of licenses, associated costs, application procedures, relevant legal provisions, and addresses common queries to assist you in liquor license in Haryana.

Types of Liquor Licenses in Haryana

Haryana offers a variety of liquor licenses tailored to specific business needs:

  • L-1 License: For wholesale distribution of Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL).

  • L-2 License: Permits retail sale of liquor for off-premises consumption.

  • L-3 License: Allows restaurants to serve liquor for on-premises consumption.

  • L-4 License: For hotels to serve liquor to residents and their guests.

  • L-5 License: Enables hotels to operate bars accessible to the general public.

  • L-10 License: Grants permission for retail vend of beer for on and off-premises consumption.

  • L-11 License: Issued for microbreweries to manufacture and serve beer.

  • L-12A License: Temporary license for serving foreign liquor at events or functions.

  • L-14 License: For retail sale of country liquor.

  • L-28 License: Allows clubs to serve Indian liquor to members.

  • L-28F License: Permits clubs to serve foreign liquor to members.

  • L-1B License: For distilleries to sell their products in wholesale.

  • L-1W License: Issued to wine manufacturers for wholesale distribution.

  • L-19 License: For wholesale vend of rectified spirit.

  • L-17 License: For wholesale vend of denatured spirit.

  • L-52 (Tavern) License: Introduced for taverns to serve liquor on-premises.

Cost of Liquor Licenses in Haryana

The license fees in Haryana vary based on the type of license and the nature of the establishment:

  • L-1 License: ₹25,00,000 annually.

  • L-2 License: ₹20,00,000 annually.

  • L-3 License: ₹25,00,000 annually.

  • L-4 License: ₹30,00,000 (Five Star Hotels), ₹40,00,000 (Five Star Deluxe Hotels).

  • L-5 License: ₹20,00,000 annually.

  • L-10 License: Varies based on location and capacity.

  • L-11 License: ₹2,50,000 annually.

  • L-12A License: ₹10,000 for gatherings below 100 people; ₹15,000 for gatherings over 100 people.

  • L-14 License: Varies; determined by the Excise Department.

  • L-28 License: ₹3,54,312 annually.

  • L-28F License: 10% of the L-28 license fee.

  • 1B License: ₹25,00,000 annually.

  • L-1W License: ₹25,00,000 annually.

  • L-19 License: Varies; determined by the Excise Department.

  • L-17 License: Varies; determined by the Excise Department.

  • L-52 (Tavern) License: Fees as prescribed by the Excise Department.

Note: Additional security deposits and professional fees may apply. It's advisable to consult with the Excise Department or a legal expert for precise fee structures.

Procedure for Obtaining a Liquor License in Haryana

  • Determine the Appropriate License: Identify the license type that aligns with your business model.

  • Prepare Necessary Documentation: Commonly required documents include:

    • Application form.

    • Identity proof (Aadhar, PAN).

    • Address proof.

    • Business registration certificates.

    • NOC from the Fire Department.

    • Site plan and layout.

    • Lease agreement or property ownership documents.

  • Submit Application: Apply through the official portal of the Haryana Excise and Taxation Department or visit the local Excise office.

  • Inspection and Verification: The Excise Department will inspect the premises and verify the submitted documents.

  • Fee Payment: Upon approval, pay the requisite license fee and security deposit.

  • License Issuance: After successful verification and fee payment, the license will be issued.

  • Renewal: Licenses are typically valid for one year and must be renewed annually by submitting a renewal application and paying the applicable fees.

Legal Provisions and Sections

Haryana Liquor License Rules, 1970

The Haryana Liquor License Rules, 1970 lay down the regulatory framework and conditions for the grant, operation, and cancellation of liquor licenses in the state. These rules are issued under the powers vested in the State Government by the Punjab Excise Act, 1914 (as applicable to Haryana), which acts as the primary legislation.

Some important sections and provisions include:

  • Section 58 of the Punjab Excise Act, 1914: Gives the State Government the authority to make rules regulating the manufacture, supply, and sale of liquor.
  • Section 24: Deals with the grant of exclusive privileges to manufacture and vend liquor.
  • Section 30: Provides for the penalties in case of breach of licensing conditions.
  • Section 33: Discusses the powers of Excise Officers to inspect premises and enforce the Act.

These provisions ensure that alcohol is sold and consumed in a controlled and legal manner, balancing public safety with business interests.

Key Considerations Before Applying

Before you apply for a liquor license in Haryana, keep the following points in mind:

  • Zoning Restrictions: Licenses will not be granted near educational institutions, hospitals, or religious places. The distance requirement may vary depending on the area and type of license.

  • Timing Restrictions: The sale of alcohol is subject to time regulations. Violations of business hours may result in penalties or cancellation of the license.

  • Dry Days: No sale of alcohol is permitted on declared dry days like national holidays, elections, or religious events as notified by the Excise Department.

  • License Display: The license must be prominently displayed at the premises during operational hours.

Benefits of Holding a Liquor License

  • Legality and Compliance: You can run your business without the fear of legal consequences or raids.

  • Business Expansion: Enables entry into new business verticals like microbreweries, lounges, or bars.

  • Reputation and Trust: Having a valid license boosts the reputation of your establishment among customers and partners.

  • Revenue Generation: Liquor sales can significantly boost revenue, especially in the hospitality industry.

FAQs on Liquor License Registration in Haryana

- Can I apply for a liquor license online in Haryana?

Yes, some categories of licenses can be applied online through the 

- How long does it take to get a liquor license in Haryana?

It generally takes 30–45 days after document submission and inspection, depending on the type of license.

- Is there a quota system for liquor vends in Haryana?

Yes, the government auctions retail liquor vends every year through a bidding process under a quota system.

- Can individuals get a liquor license for private parties?

Yes, a temporary license like L-12A can be obtained for private events such as weddings and corporate functions.

- What happens if I sell liquor without a license?

It is a criminal offense under the Punjab Excise Act, 1914 (as applicable to Haryana), and can result in imprisonment, fines, or both.

- Can a single premises hold more than one liquor license?

Yes, subject to approval, an establishment like a hotel can hold multiple licenses (e.g., L-4 and L-5) if it meets the eligibility criteria.

- What is the validity of a liquor license in Haryana?

Most licenses are valid for one year and need to be renewed annually.

- Who issues the liquor license in Haryana?

The Department of Excise and Taxation, Government of Haryana, is the licensing authority.

Final Thought

Running a business involving alcohol in Haryana requires strict adherence to the licensing process governed by the Haryana Excise Department. Whether you're opening a liquor shop, launching a fine-dining restaurant with bar service, or planning an event that serves alcohol, understanding the type of license you need, the costs involved, and the legal framework can save you from future hassles.

Consulting with legal professionals can further simplify your application process. A well-regulated liquor license not only empowers your business with legal backing but also contributes to state revenue and promotes responsible alcohol consumption in society. GenZCFO helps you in end-to-end process while getting liquor license for you including assistance in all other licenses that is required to receive the liquor license.

CA Manish Mishra is the Co-Founder & CEO at GenZCFO. He is the most sought professional for providing virtual CFO services to startups and established businesses across diverse sectors, such as retail, manufacturing, food, and financial services with over 20 years of experience including strategic financial planning, regulatory compliance, fundraising and M&A.