If you’re planning to open a bar, restaurant, café, or bottle shop in South Australia, getting a liquor licence is one of your first essential steps. But the process can be confusing, time-consuming, and filled with regulatory hurdles.
In this guide, we break down exactly how to apply for a liquor licence in SA, what documents you need, how long it takes, and how a professional liquor licensing consultant (like us at Watts Liquor Licensing) can help you get approved faster.
Step 1: Choose the Right Type of Liquor Licence
The type of liquor licence you need depends on your business model. In South Australia, the main liquor licence categories include:
On Premises Licence
An On Premises liquor licence in South Australia authorizes the sale of alcohol for consumption exclusively within the licensed venue, such as a bar, café, or entertainment venue, where the primary focus is on serving drinks rather than meals.
Hotel Licence
A Hotel liquor licence in South Australia permits the sale of alcohol for both on-site consumption and takeaway, catering to venues like pubs and hotels that may also offer accommodation, gaming, and entertainment services.
Club Licence
A Club liquor licence in South Australia permits incorporated clubs—such as sporting, social, or community organizations—to sell or supply alcohol to members and their guests for consumption on the club premises, with optional endorsements available for off-site events or takeaway sales.
Packaged Liquor Sales Licence
A Packaged Liquor Sales Licence in South Australia authorises the sale of alcohol for takeaway purposes, either directly from a licensed premises (such as a bottle shop) during specified hours or via online and mail-order transactions, with delivery permitted between 8:00 am and 10:00 pm.
This licence prohibits drive-through sales and requires that the licensed premises be physically separate from other commercial operations, unless an exemption is granted.
Additionally, licensees may offer liquor sampling on-site, provided it aligns with the licence conditions.
Special Circumstances Licence
A Special Circumstances Licence in South Australia was designed for businesses whose operations did not align with standard liquor licence categories.
It permitted the sale of alcohol for consumption on or off the premises under specific conditions tailored to unique business models, such as catering services, mobile bars, or venues with unconventional setups.
However, due to regulatory reforms, this licence type has been phased out.
Existing holders have been transitioned to other licence categories—like General & Hotel, Packaged Liquor Sales, or On Premises licences—based on their operational characteristics .
Tip: Choosing the wrong licence type is a common reason for delays.
We can help you get it right the first time.
Step 2: Prepare Your Application
You’ll need to submit your application through CBS Online Services. The application generally requires:
- Personal and business details
- Floor plan of the premises
- Consent from the local council (Development Approval or Planning Consent)
- Details about your proposed trading hours
- Community Impact Assessment (for some licence types)
Step 3: Advertise and Notify
CBS requires you to advertise your intention to apply for a liquor licence, typically:
- In a newspaper and/or on-site signage
- On the CBS website
You must also notify adjacent property owners. This gives the community a chance to raise any objections.
Step 4: Wait for Assessment
CBS will assess your application and may:
- Request additional documents
- Contact you for clarification
- Perform background checks
How long does it take?
Most applications take 6–8 weeks, but it can take longer if your application is incomplete or receives objections.
Why Use a Liquor Licensing Consultant?
Hiring a professional consultant can:
- Ensure you submit a complete and correct application
- Help you choose the right licence type
- Avoid common mistakes that cause delays
- Represent you in hearings (if objections arise)
Watts Liquor Licensing has helped hundreds of businesses across SA secure their liquor licences quickly and with confidence.
Need Help?
If you’re not sure where to start, or you’re stuck in the application process, reach out to Watts Liquor Licensing. We offer clear, fixed pricing and personalised support from start to finish.
Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How much does a liquor licence cost in South Australia?
Costs vary depending on the licence type. Government fees usually start from a few hundred dollars, plus application and annual fees.
Q: How long does a liquor licence take to approve?
Most licences take around 6–8 weeks, but delays can happen without proper documentation.
Q: Can I sell alcohol online in SA?
Yes, but you need a Packaged Liquor Sales Licence and must meet RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) requirements.
Q: Do I need development approval first?
Yes — CBS requires you to show evidence of development/planning approval before granting a licence.
Need Help?
If you’re not sure where to start, or you’re stuck in the application process, reach out to Watts Liquor Licensing.
We offer clear, fixed pricing and personalised support from start to finish.
Need Help?
Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation.
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