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 restrict 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 the 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.

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. The instructions for each step are included in the application packet (provided by the Town Clerk via an appointment). Plan accordingly and communicate with the Town Clerk far in advance of your anticipated opening date to avoid delays.

In addition to the application and the fees, applicants must post a public notice, petition, and attend a public hearing. Final applications, approved by the local authority, are then forwarded to the State Liquor Enforcement Division.

Apply

First, applicants are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the Town Clerk to review the application, process, and fee schedule. State and local fees are due to the Town Clerk’s Office upon submitting the final application