Music is a great way to create atmosphere in a bar. Register your business’ domain name as well. Lastly, in today’s business climate, a web presence is vital. You may also need to register a DBA (Doing Business As), which allows entrepreneurs to conduct business under a different identity than their own. This way, would-be copycats can’t steal your intellectual property.
In fact, once the bar name is decided, you should register it as an entity name for protection at the state level and as a trademark for protection at the federal level. Signage isn’t all that’s required to get one’s name out there. It’s also critical to know that a food service license won’t necessarily cover the sale of liquor, so if the bar is food-centric, additional legwork will likely be required. The first step is to consider exactly what you plan to serve, since beer and wine bars may require a different license than a fully stocked operation. Procuring one, however, is much easier said than done. While the abovementioned licenses are a necessity for all businesses, there is a fundamental certificate unique to this industry- the liquor license.
The third is an Employer Identification Number (EIN,) which is necessary for taxation. The second is a certificate of occupancy, which certifies that the building itself has been properly maintained and can safely host guests. Very simply, this permit grants permission to operate a business. The first absolutely fundamental certificate any prospective bar owner needs is a business permit. Here are the key licenses and permits you need to open a bar.īusiness permit, certificate of occupancy, and EIN While specific regulations vary by state and municipalities, there are a few steps would-be bar owners must take on their journey to opening. In fact, they’ll have to navigate a costly maze of red tape before ever tapping into any kegs. However, they soon realize that opening a bar isn’t so simple. They’ve had this conversation before, but they’re serious this time. While nursing a cocktail at the end of a sluggish workweek, one bored office worker turns to her friend, another bored office worker, and says, “We should open a bar.” “Yes!” the friend replies. Opening a bar? This primer on the complicated licensing process will help you along in your journey from patron to publican…