Obtaining Necessary Licenses and Permits
To operate legally, mobile bars need permits: a business license, food handlers permits, a seller’s permit, a mobile food facility permit, and a liquor license. Obtaining licenses takes weeks or months, so start early. You need liability, liquor liability, and auto insurance. Licenses for mobile bars usually include beer and wine only, all alcohol, or event-specific. Consult regulations.
Applying for Alcohol Licenses
As a mobile bar serves alcohol, acquire necessary alcohol licenses from state or local authorities based on location and drinks offered. Every state regulates alcohol sale and consumption differently through liquor laws.
Setting Up a Mobile Bar Business
Also get proper business permits, equipment, staffing, and marketing. In California, submit liquor license applications with fees and documentation to the Alcoholic Beverage Control. Obtain other permits like food handler’s if serving food, along with business licenses and local permits. Understand health and safety regulations for operating a mobile bar business.
Regulations for Food Trucks Selling Alcohol
Can food trucks sell alcohol in California? Because food trucks are mobile in nature, they technically don’t qualify for a license to sell alcohol, except if they are parked in a permanent location. Recently, some US States have loosened their tight grip over the alcohol laws and regulations. California, Florida, New York, and Oregon allow food trucks to get special and temporary permits for selling alcohol.
Profitability of Mobile Bars
Are mobile bars profitable? The most important piece of equipment for a mobile bar is a portable bar. This can be a bar that folds, rolls, or assembles on-site. The bar should be sturdy, movable, and match the event theme. You also need bottle openers, knives, shakers, glasses, spirits like vodka and whiskey, sodas and juices, ice buckets. Having enough for guests is key. Licenses to sell alcohol and operate a mobile business are usually required. You must comply with regulations too. Useful items include menus, signs, cooling bins, glass storage, and boxes. Specialized gear like ice stamps can make your bar unique. Still, a functional portable bar matters most.