Liquor License

• As the owner of a bar, you must obtain a Beer, Wine and Liquor Consumption on Premises license to serve alcoholic beverages in the bar. Submit a fingerprint card with your application and include information about any partners and shareholders. You must be of good moral character and submit copies of arrest dispositions, if applicable. The application also requires a sketch of the floor plan and zoning and health approval. Finally, ensure that the bar meets all local regulations to obtain the liquor license.
  
  

Food License

• If you are planning to serve food in the bar, even if it is only hamburgers an appetizers, you must obtain a Public Food Service License by applying with the Florida Department of Professional and Business Development. New bars must pass a sanitation and safety inspection prior to opening. In addition, the bar must meet all local regulations and zoning requirements to obtain a license.
  
  

Facility Plans

• If the premises has undergone remodeling or is a new construction, you will need to get a Food Service Plan Review from the Florida Department of Professional and Business Development. A drawing of the floor plan, copy of the planned menu must be submitted, and the site will undergo a sewer and water evaluation to be approved to operate and serve food and liquor.
  
  

Tax Considerations

• In addition to obtaining licenses necessary to operate the bar, you must comply with federal and local tax requirements. First, obtain a federal employer identification number from the Internal Revenue Service which will be used to file federal returns. Then you will need to apply for a state tax identification number from the Department of Revenue's Sales Tax Division for the bar's state tax returns.