Why Section 65
Benefits of Buying an Existing Licence
Transfers deliver speed, credibility, and continuity.
Transfer of Liquor Licence in Cape Town (Section 65)
Buying or selling a licensed Cape Town business? Section 65 transfers move the liquor licence into the new owner’s name while keeping the premises intact. We manage every document, notice, and hearing so handovers stay profitable.
Section 65(1) governs the transfer of existing liquor licences between legal entities or individuals. The licence is tied to the premises and the licence holder—when ownership changes, the Authority must re-issue the certificate to the buyer. We partner this with Section 65(3) consent so you can keep trading while waiting for final approval.
Smart Pairing
We file the Section 65(1) transfer and 65(3) consent simultaneously so there’s no downtime when ownership changes hands.
That means every transfer file includes Consent to Conduct Business in Cape Town plus, when only shareholding shifts, the supporting Transfer Financial Interest in Cape Town documentation so regulators have a complete trail.
Immediate Trading
With 65(3) consent, you can trade under the seller’s licence while paperwork finalizes.
Reduced Risk
Premises, zoning, and community acceptance have already been proven through years of trading.
Higher Valuations
Sellers command better prices when the licence is clean; buyers inherit goodwill alongside equipment and staff.
Requirements
Documents Needed from Both Parties
Transfers move quickly when buyer and seller deliver complete, accurate packs.
Buyer Checklist
- SA ID / work permit & police clearance
- Tax clearance certificate
- CIPC documents + share registers
- Proof of funding / sale agreement
- Business plan & operational capability
Seller Checklist
- Original liquor licence certificate
- Proof annual fees paid
- No outstanding enforcement actions
- Lease or title deed rights for premises
- Full sale-of-business agreement
Cape Town Transfer Timeline
1
Due Diligence
We audit the licence history, municipal records, and transaction terms.
2
Dual Applications
Section 65(1) transfer + Section 65(3) consent submitted with insurance and compliance proof.
3
Public Notices
Newspaper ads and premises notices inform the public; we manage any objections.
4
Authority Review
The Liquor Board assesses the buyer’s suitability and seller’s compliance status.
5
Licence Reissue
Certificate updated with the buyer’s details; consent falls away and full ownership begins.
Supporting Components
Beyond the Paperwork
We treat transfers as full change-management projects.
Operational Handover
Inventory counts, supplier introductions, and staff briefings scheduled around approval milestones.
Compliance Coaching
New owners receive training packs covering trading hours, signage, intoxication policies, and reporting duties.
Authority Liaison
We remain main point of contact with the Liquor Authority so you can focus on running the venue.
Financial Planning
Timeline & Costs
Know what to set aside beyond the purchase price.
Processing Time
- Document Preparation2-3 weeks
- Authority Review30-60 days
- Consent ValidityUntil transfer is finalised
Cost Items
- Government FeeR1,500 - R3,500
- Public Notice PlacementR1,200 - R2,500
- Consultant FeeQuoted per transaction
Frequently Asked Questions
Only if a Section 65(3) consent is granted. We submit it alongside the transfer so there’s no downtime.
We disclose it and provide rehabilitation evidence. Severe offences can derail the transfer, so honesty and mitigation are key.
Not if the premises remain unchanged. However, we verify municipal compliance to ensure the Authority doesn’t flag issues.
Minor tweaks are fine. Major shifts (e.g., restaurant to nightclub) may require Section 53 approval or even a new licence application.
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.