Know Which Type of Temporary Liquor Licence Your Event Needs

If you’re holding a one-off event where alcohol is publicly for sale, a temporary liquor licence can be a lifesaver. But it’s not as simple as applying for a permit and then immediately having it to use as you please.

The 3 Classes of Temporary Alcohol Licenses

Temporary licenses, also known as a special occasion or short-term licenses, are appropriate for selling beverages for a limited event. However, it’s important to understand that no two events are the same. Therefore, South Africa issues three types, or classes, of liquor licenses to alcohol vendors. Each has its specific guidelines.

Class 1 License

A Class 1 license is required for events where guests will be consuming alcohol at the venue. This license allows you to sell and serve alcohol for up to a day and no later than midnight.

These licenses are valid only on the day of your event and are not valid for consecutive days. Plus, they don’t allow for gathering exceeding 200 people or having entertainment like adult performances or fighting matches.

However, at small-scale events, they are a low-maintenance investment at the lower end when it comes to liquor licence costs. Plus, while you’re supposed to designate someone in charge of the event, their presence is not needed throughout the event.

Class 2 License

For one-off events that last more than one day, Class 2 temporary licenses offer a little more than their predecessor. First, the event can have a capacity of as many as 1200 people. Plus, you can sell beer up to 02:00 am.

Like Class 1 permits, these allow you to sell alcohol without the person in charge is present at all times. However, entertainment options are also limited here.

Class 3 License

The Class 3 temporary liquor license is for community events, such as festivals and concerts. Like Class 2, you can hold sales for more than one day at events not exceeding 1200 attendees.

Other than that, these permits have some differences from the last two. First, they allow you to

• Sell alcohol without a curfew
• Provide entertainment with approval

Meanwhile, with Class 3 permits, you cannot sell alcohol without

• A person-in-charge present throughout the event
• Showing proof of proper RSA, or responsible service of alcohol, credentials

Sell Responsibly

Knowing which temporary liquor license suits your event is important not just for legal reasons, but public safety, But as long as you stick with this guide, you’re good to go.

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