"In vino veritas, in aqua sanitas", ie "In wine there is truth, in water there is health."

How to apply for a liquor licence in the Western Cape

Before you consider selling or manufacturing liquor, you're required by law to apply for a liquor licence. Here's what you need to know. 

Types of licences 

The Western Cape Liquor Authority (WCLA) controls the sale and micro-manufacturing of liquor in our province. The WCLA have four types of liquor licences:

Micro-manufacturing on and off consumption - a licence for the micro-manufacture and sale of liquor for use both on and off the premises where the liquor is sold.

1. Consumption on - a licence for the sale of liquor for use on the premises where the liquor is sold. 
2. Consumption off - a licence for the sale of liquor for use off the premises where the liquor is sold.
3. Consumption on and off - in exceptional circumstances, a licence for the sale of liquor for use both on and off the premises where the liquor is sold.

Follow these steps to apply

Step1: Check to see whether you qualify

Before you get your paper work ready, ensure that you meet the criteria to apply.

You cannot apply if you:

• have, within five years prior to your application, been sentenced to prison without the option of paying a fine;
• have within five (5) years prior to your application, been declared unfit to hold a liquor licence;
• were the holder of any liquor licence that was cancelled within a period of twelve (12) months prior to your application;
• are unable to pay your debts (unrehabilitated insolvent);
• are under the age of eighteen (18) when you apply; or 
• have a mental illness. 

Remember, if you micro-manufacture or sell liquor without the required licence, you will be found guilty of the illegal manufacture and sale of liquor.

Step 2: Prepare required documents

The WCLA needs the following documents:

• Completed application forms, typed on A4 size paper;
• A certified copy of your identity document;
• A copy of your passport and business trading permit, if you are not a South African citizen;
• a comprehensive floor plan of the proposed licensed premises;
• a site plan of the premises;
• description of the proposed licensed premises;
• Colour photographs of the proposed licensed premises;
• written representations in support of the granting of the license;
• Zoning certificate or copy of a planning application submitted to the municipality; and 
• Proof of payment of the prescribed application fee. 

Step 3: Submit your documents

You cannot fax or email your application. To apply you need to:

1. Send your application on the last Friday of the month by 2:00 PM, or 
2. hand-deliver or post your application to:

Western Cape Liquor Authority

3rd Floor

Sunbel Building, 3 Old Paarl Road

Bellville 7530