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Liquor licence applications in Hong Kong
To sell alcohol for drinking on the premises you need a liquor licence. Licences are issued by the Liquor Licensing Board, with administrative support from FEHD.
What the Board requires
- The premises must normally hold a general, light refreshment or marine restaurant licence at the same time, unless the Board exempts them.
- Every application is sent to the Hong Kong Police Force and the Home Affairs Department for comments. Other departments are consulted in some cases.
- You advertise the application, at your own cost, in three newspapers: one English and two Chinese. FEHD staff also post a notice in the building.
- Anyone can object within 14 days of the notice.
- An application with no objections takes about 8 weeks.
- Running a bar on the premises needs the Board's permission, endorsed on the licence.
Good to know
- Selling bottled drinks for customers to take away does not need a liquor licence. Drinking on the premises does.
- A liquor licence can be valid for up to two years. The two-year term is generally given on renewal to licensees with a good record, so a new licence may be shorter.
- Clubs serving their members apply for a club liquor licence, not an ordinary liquor licence.
- Applicants must declare any criminal record truthfully. Leaving one out is treated more seriously than the record itself.
Fee
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Liquor Licence (under 1,000 sq ft) | HK$8,000 |
Consultancy fees for reference. Final fees depend on the works, the premises and the professionals needed. Government fees are separate.