What is an ABC permit and do I need one?
– The State of California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control issues permits that give permission to sell alcohol. Non-Profit Organizations wishing to sell alcohol need a one-day permit. This can be obtained through Alcohol Beverage Control. Private Parties i.e. weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, or anyone other than a non-profit organization shall not sell alcohol on their own. If a private party wishes to sell alcohol, they must arrange this through a licensed caterer. The caterer must have a license obtained from the State of California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control which enables the caterer to sell beer, wine and distilled spirits (hard liquor). If the caterer does not have this license, the private party cannot sell alcohol. No exceptions. It is illegal for a private party to sell alcohol.
