Liquor Licenses

A liquor license is required to sell or distribute alcoholic beverages for commercial purposes. All liquor licenses are considered by the Town of Erie Local Liquor Licensing Authority. The Municipal Judge serves as the Licensing Authority. The Town Clerk serves as Secretary to the Local Liquor Licensing Authority.

The liquor laws of the State of Colorado oversee the sale and dispensing of alcoholic beverages. Any person intending to manufacture, sell, or deal in spirituous liquor in the State of Colorado must apply for a liquor license.

Renewal applications need to be submitted 45 days prior to license expiration date.
Special event permit applications need to be submitted 60 days prior to the event. 

While the Town Clerk’s office is available to provide some assistance in the application process, the Clerk cannot provide legal advice and cannot make any representations or assurances as to the final outcome of the process. It is certainly not essential that you seek the assistance of an attorney to guide you through this process; although you may strongly consider doing so.

 In many instances, legal assistance can help you move through the process more quickly and with fewer complications.

Liquor License Authority Orders

In addition to reviewing the Town of Erie Liquor Licensing Rules of Procedure, an applicant/licensee must also review state statutes, rules and regulations, and local ordinances applicable to their circumstance. Town staff cannot answer questions regarding how the rules, statutes, ordinances, and regulations apply to an applicant/licensee's situation; any such questions should be directed to a lawyer.

Process

Obtaining a liquor license in the Town of Erie is a privilege and is issued by 'dual' licensing authorities. The licensing process generally takes months or longer to complete. 

  1. Read the Town's Liquor Licensing Rules of Procedure.
  2. Choose the correct permit application from the State.
    • The instructions for each step of the process are included within the permit application packet. 
  3. Email townclerk@erieco.gov to make an appointment once you have all the documents completed. 
    • Plan accordingly and schedule with the Town Clerk far in advance of your anticipated opening or event date to avoid delays.
  4. Be prepared to pay any associated fees with the application.
  5. Post a public notice, petition, and attend a public hearing. 
  6. Final applications, approved by the local authority, are then forwarded to the State Liquor Enforcement Division.

State Bulletins