The ABC’s of Event Alcohol Permits

Kate Taylor

March 11, 2026

If you are considering serving alcohol at your event and aren’t sure where to begin, you’re not alone.

Yes, adding an Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) permit to your event can cause additional hurdles during the event approval process. However, with the proper lead-time, preparation, and permitting team guiding you through the process, it’s totally manageable.

Here are a few key considerations to keep in mind as you begin planning:

  1. City Requirements Vary

One of the most important things to keep in mind is that just like with any type of permit, requirements will vary from city to city and in some cases, location to location and event to event. Therefore, having your market (and ideally your venue) locked in is essential in order for us to accurately guide your team.

  1. There are Multiple Approval Levels

While we will obviously have to coordinate with the local city municipalities for event approval, in most cases ABC permits are granted by each state’s alcohol authority. For example, the New York State Liquor Authority issues all alcohol related permits in New York. EventPermit will ensure your event meets all the requirements at both the state and city level.

  1. You will Need a Detailed Age Verification and Security Plan

This one goes without saying, but it’s important to mention, as it will be one of the first things a city will ask for, no matter which market you’re looking to activate in. If not managed correctly, serving alcohol can cause potential crowd control and public safety issues that can be minimized or prevented altogether with a well-thought-out security plan and age verification plan. Of course, our team can help with all of this and simplify the process for you.

  1. Insurance is Non-Negotiable

When alcohol is involved, insurance is non-negotiable. Even the most well-planned events are not immune to unprecedented circumstances arising. Our team can help guide you in obtaining the correct Certificate of Insurance (COI) so you and your brand client are properly protected.

  1. Know Your Details!

Approaching a city with a half-baked idea is never a good look, but this is especially true when it comes to alcohol. ABC permits require detailed plans, including but not limited to a comprehensive site plan. Supplying the whole picture upfront will result in a smoother permitting process.

These are just a few items to consider when it comes to temporary liquor permits, but there are so much more. Don’t risk costly mistakes by trying to navigate the process on your own. EventPermits gets it right the first time!