Licence Types
Which Licence Do You Need?
South African liquor legislation provides for different types of licences depending on your business model.
New Liquor Licence Application (Section 36)
Starting a new business? Whether you're opening a restaurant, pub, or bottle store, we guide you through the complex Section 36 application process with precision and expertise.
Understanding Section 36
Section 36 of the South African Liquor Act governs applications for new liquor licences. This applies when you're opening a brand new business or establishing a venue that has never been licensed before. Unlike transfers, this creates a completely new licence for your specific premises.
Important Warning
Don't risk rejection or costly delays. Missing or incorrect documentation is the #1 reason for application failure. Our proven process ensures 95% approval rates.
On-Consumption
For businesses where liquor is consumed on the premises.
- Restaurants & Eateries
- Pubs, Bars & Taverns
- Hotels & Guest Houses
- Clubs & Venues
Off-Consumption
For businesses where liquor is purchased and taken away.
- Bottle Stores
- Liquor Shops
- Wine Boutiques
- Online Retailers
Special Licences
For specialized manufacturing or distribution operations.
- Micro-manufacturing
- Craft Breweries
- Distributors
- Estate Wines
Personal & Business Requirements
Before we apply, we must ensure the applicant and business entity meet all statutory criteria.
- South African ID or Valid Work Permit
- No criminal record (Liquor Act related)
- Tax Clearance Certificate (Good Standing)
- Proof of Residence
- Registered Business Documents (CIPC)
- Valid Business Bank Account
Premises Requirements
Your physical location must be suitable and compliant for liquor trading.
- Right to Occupy (Lease or Title Deed)
- Zoning Certificate (Commercial/Business)
- Building Plans (approved by municipality)
- Health & Safety Compliance
- Fire Safety Certificate
- Suitable distance from schools/churches
The Application Process
1
Initial Consultation
We assess your business model, premises, and eligibility to recommend the correct licence type.
2
Document Preparation
Our team compiles the comprehensive application pack, including motivations, plans, and legal documents.
3
Submission & Notices
We lodge the application with the Authority and place required public notices in newspapers.
4
Objection Period
A statutory 30-day period for public comment. We monitor and respond to any objections.
5
Authority Review
The Liquor Licencing Authority reviews the file. We follow up relentlessly to prevent backlog delays.
6
Approval & Issue
Once approved, we guide you through the final fee payment and licence collection.
Expectations
Timeline & Costs
Transparency is key. Here is what you can expect in terms of time and budget.
Estimated Timeline
- Cape Town60-90 Days
- Winelands60-90 Days
- Coastal Areas60-90 Days
Cost Structure
- Government FeesR2,000 - R5,000
- Annual FeesVariable
- Consultant FeesQuote on Request
*Fees are estimates and vary by province and licence type.
Why Applications Get Rejected
Incomplete Docs
Missing forms, unsigned documents, or outdated certificates are instant disqualifiers.
Zoning Issues
Premises not correctly zoned for liquor sales or business use by the municipality.
Proximity
Too close to schools, places of worship, or rehabilitation centers without proper motivation.
Objections
Failure to adequately address valid community or police objections during the notice period.
Our Clients
Industries We Serve
We provide new liquor licence application services for all business types.
Restaurants & Cafes
Pubs, Bars & Taverns
Bottle Stores
Hotels & Guest Houses
Event Venues
Clubs
Wine Farms
Craft Breweries
Nightclubs
Supermarkets
Areas Served
Based in Blouberg, Cape Town, we provide expert liquor licence application services throughout Cape Town and surrounding areas.
Cape Town CBD & Surrounds
Northern Suburbs
Southern Suburbs
Winelands
Coastal Areas
Atlantic Seaboard
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, foreign nationals can apply if they have a valid work permit and meet all other requirements. The process is more complex, which is why professional assistance is particularly valuable.
Timelines vary by province but typically range from 3 to 6 months. Western Cape is often 90-120 days, while other provinces may take longer. Delays usually occur due to incomplete applications or objections.
Costs include government application fees (R2000-R5000), annual licence fees (variable), public notice costs, and professional consultant fees. Contact us for a detailed quote specific to your project.
No. Trading without a valid licence is illegal. However, if you are buying an existing licensed business, you can apply for a temporary Section 65(3) consent to trade while the transfer processes.
Not strictly required by law, but highly recommended to have a specialist consultant. The process is legalistic and bureaucratic. We handle the legal complexity for you at a fraction of law firm rates.
Yes. Any business serving alcohol to customers, even just wine with meals, requires a liquor licence.
Ready to Apply?
Let Beverly Jeursen handle the red tape. Book a free consultation to assess your eligibility and get a clear roadmap to approval.