So, what is an events or temporary liquor licence and when do you need one
A temporary events liquor licence is required for temporary events defined in section 23 of the Gauteng Liquor act, such as weekend markets or seasonal popup events, large events, concerts and festivals, sporting events, corporate events and even weddings that will be hosted at a venue that does not hold a valid liquor licence, or if the organizer has a valid liquor licence, but the event will be hosted away from the address that their licence was issued for. Basically, any gathering or occasion where liquor is sold or supplied to guests will require you to apply for a temporary licence. This type of licence allows you to legally run your event for up to 14 consecutive days, but not more than 30 days in one calendar year.
How do you apply?
The Liquor Board’s application fee is R1 000.00. You must complete the relevant application form at least 14 days before the date of the event. You can find the application form here:
You will also need to submit the following documents with your application form:
Application by an Individual:
1. Completed Application Form (in duplicate) – see page 39 to 43.
2. Proof of Lawful Occupation
- You will need to provide written proof from the event organiser or organisation that you have the right to occupy the premises that you will be selling liquor on.
3. Written motivation with supporting documents
- For the support document, you’ll need to outline how your event will impact the community and the area around the venue. You will have to give reasons as to why the event will be beneficial or why it will not have a negative impact on the community.
- You will be required to provide all details of what type of liquor and how many units you plan to sell at the event.
4. A detailed layout plan (sketch).
- You need to describe the premises and include a detailed map with your layout which also entails the seating for patrons, parks. schools, religious centres, old age homes etc., as wel as how traffic will move.
5. Certified copies of the applicant’s identity document. If there is more than one applicant, a copy of each applicant’s identity document.
6. Proof of payment of the application fee of R1 000 to the Liquor Board’s bank account, which you can find on the DTI’s website.
If the Applicant is a juristic person (company, cc, trust, etc.) you will be required to attach the following in addition to the above:
7. Certificate of Incorporation (CIPRO).
8. Special Events Notice (page 44)
- The notice must be handed in at the local police station in the area where the event will be hosted.
