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Consent to Conduct Business in Cape Town (Section 65(3))

Keep trading while your liquor licence transfer is in progress. Section 65(3) consent lets Cape Town buyers operate immediately while we finalize the full transfer paperwork.

7-14 daysAverage Consent Approval
100%Applications ApprovedWhen transfer pack is complete
0Trading Days LostFor our managed clients

Section 65(1) transfers can take up to 90 days. Without consent, the new owner must keep doors closed—bleeding rent, payroll, and goodwill. Section 65(3) bridges that gap with temporary legal authority to keep serving while the paperwork catches up.

Critical Requirement

Consent must be submitted together with the full transfer pack. We compile both applications simultaneously, ensuring the Authority has everything needed to approve immediate trading.

We typically file consent alongside the Transfer of Liquor Licence in Cape Town and coordinate any venue tweaks via Alter Licensed Premises in Cape Town applications so the Authority sees a complete picture.

Benefits

Why Cape Town Buyers Rely on Section 65(3)

Immediate trading keeps your cash flow, staff, and reputation intact.

Protect Revenue

No forced “dark period.” Keep tills ringing while ownership paperwork is processed.

Stabilize Staff

Employees remain on payroll with zero interruption, preventing turnover during the handover.

Maintain Momentum

Suppliers, customers, and landlords experience a seamless transition with no compliance anxiety.

Requirements

What the Authority Expects

Consent relies on the same rigor as the full transfer—only complete, compliant files move fast.

Buyer Documentation

  • SA ID / valid work permit
  • Clean criminal record (Liquor Act)
  • Tax clearance & proof of funds
  • CIPC documents for purchasing entity

Seller & Licence Status

  • Original licence in good standing
  • Annual fees paid up
  • No outstanding violations
  • Sale of business agreement

Operational Safeguards

  • Comprehensive liability insurance
  • Proof of staff onboarding & training
  • Premises compliance certificates
  • Motivation addressing public interest

Fast-Track Timeline

1

Dual Pack Compilation

We prepare the Section 65(1) transfer and 65(3) consent together.

2

Submission & Insurance Proof

Consent cannot be granted without liability cover. We attach certificates upfront.

3

Authority Review

Liquor inspectors confirm licence status, compliance history, and buyer suitability.

4

Consent Letter Issued

Within ±7–14 days you receive formal authority to begin trading under strict conditions.

5

Trading Commences

We brief your team on operational conditions while monitoring the full transfer progress.

Expectations

Timeline & Costs

Transparent deliverables for Cape Town buyers.

Processing Time

  • Document Prep1-2 weeks
  • Authority Review7-14 days
  • Consent ValidityUntil transfer finalizes

Cost Items

  • Govt Application Fee±R1,000
  • Insurance PremiumRisk dependent
  • Consultant FeeIncluded in transfer quote

Working Together

How We Keep You Compliant

Consent comes with conditions—we stay engaged until the full transfer number is issued.

Briefing the Team

We train managers on ID checks, record-keeping, and incident logs required under temporary authority.

Monitoring Conditions

Monthly check-ins ensure insurance, staffing, and trading hours remain consistent with the consent letter.

Transfer Handover

Once the Section 65(1) licence is issued, we archive the consent and update compliance binders for audit trails.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. The Authority only considers 65(3) applications that accompany a complete 65(1) transfer pack. They must see evidence that ownership is legitimately changing.
Consent falls away immediately. That’s why we prepare bulletproof transfer files first—our approval rate stays at 100%.
Once consent is granted, the buyer is authorized to trade. The seller must step back completely to avoid dual control issues.
No. Consent allows you to operate the existing concept only. Major changes (like converting a restaurant to a nightclub) require Section 53 and possibly a fresh licence.

Ready to Get Started?

Let Beverly Jeursen handle the paperwork while you focus on your venue. Book a free consultation to confirm requirements and timelines.