Compliance
Liquor License Compliance
Stay legal from day one in Pennsylvania & New Jersey.
From pre‑purchase diligence through post‑approval operations, LLHQ helps you meet state and local alcohol regulations so you can open on time and avoid costly mistakes.
Who this is for
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New buyers
Acquiring a license via transfer
Existing operators
Changing ownership, location, or business model
Multi-unit groups
Standardizing compliance across counties/municipalities
Attorneys and brokers
Seeking a hands‑on compliance partner
What we do
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License diligence
Transfer strategy
Application assembly
Public notice & hearings
Agency coordination
Operational compliance
Change management
Pennsylvania compliance, at a glance
Common scenarios
- New license issuance (quota‑limited)
- Person‑to‑person transfer (ownership change, same premises)
- Place‑to‑place transfer (same owner, new premises)
- Double transfer (ownership + premises)
- Inter‑municipal retail transfer (when permitted)
What to expect
- PLCB+ account setup, complete application with exhibits
- Local notices/hearing when required
- Premises diagram and proof of health/occupancy approvals
- Background checks, tax clearances as applicable
Post‑approval ops
- Posting/recordkeeping, manager appointments, hours rules, signage
- Alterations and construction approvals; safekeeping if not operating
Helpful terms
- R License (Restaurant): on‑premise beer, wine, spirits; limited off‑premise beer to‑go with volume limits
- E License (Eating Place): beer only on‑premise + limited to‑go; wine/spirits not permitted
- H License (Hotel): legacy category with conversion pathways in some cases
New Jersey compliance, at a glance
Municipal first
Retail liquor licensing is granted and transferred by municipalities under state ABC rules. Expect local governing‑body resolutions, public notice, and potential hearings.
Transfer types
- Person‑to‑person (ownership change)
- Place‑to‑place (location change)
- Person‑to‑person and place‑to‑place (both)
What to expect
- ABC Retail Transfer forms, municipal filing fees, tax clearance certificates
- 2‑week public notice with newspaper publication and premises posting
- Local police/background review, hearing, and resolution adoption
Post‑approval ops
- Conditions may be attached to the license; ensure signage, hours, server training, and recordkeeping align with local ordinances
Documents & requirements checklist
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Identity & entity
Operating entity docs (formation, ownership), photo ID, fingerprints/background checks.
Premises
Executed lease/deed, premises diagram to scale, health/occupancy sign‑offs, zoning confirmations, fire and health inspections as required.
Financial & tax
Bill of sale/asset purchase agreement, consideration details, tax clearances, escrow letters.
Public notice
Affidavits of publication/posting, hearing packets, witness prep.
Post‑approval
Manager/agent appointments, training certificates, poster/signage, incident log templates, renewal reminders.
Common pitfalls we prevent
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Missed notice windows
Calendared publications and postings with affidavit tracking
Incomplete exhibits
Structured document checklist and pre‑submission QA
Unapproved alterations
Plan review before construction; file alteration/extension approvals
Quota/municipal constraints
Inter‑municipal strategies or alternative license types where available
Operational violations
Clear opening‑day playbook; training referrals; policy templates
Our Process
Compliance intake
Diligence & plan
Application & notice
Agency coordination
Open with confidence
Pricing & engagement
Every municipality is different. We scope based on transfer type, jurisdiction, and build‑out needs. Flat‑fee packages available for standard transfers; hourly support for special cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an attorney?
We’re not a law firm. Many clients work with an attorney for purchase agreements while we manage compliance logistics. We’re happy to coordinate with your counsel.
How long does this take?
Most transfers take 8–16 weeks depending on municipal calendars, inspections, and completeness of documentation.
Can I finance the license?
Yes—through our financing partner. We’ll package compliance milestones to align with funding.
What if my build‑out isn’t done?
File alterations/building plans early; we’ll sequence approvals so inspections and opening day line up.
Do you help after opening?
Yes. We provide renewal reminders, change‑of‑officer/manager filings, and incident‑log templates.