Type 41 License: Sell Beer & Wine in Your LA Restaurant

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Introduction: Serve Wine & Beer Legally in Los Angeles

Running a restaurant in Los Angeles? Want to serve beer and wine to boost your profits? You’ll need a Type 41 alcohol license issued by the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC).

This article covers everything you need to know about getting a Type 41 license in LA—from eligibility and costs to legal restrictions and business benefits.

What is a Type 41 Alcohol License in California?

A Type 41 license allows the on-sale of beer and wine for consumption at the premises where food is served. It is issued specifically to bona fide eating places suasas:

Sit-down restaurants
Cafés
Diners
Food service businesses offering full meals

No distilled spirits (like vodka, rum, or tequila) can be sold with this license.

Only beer and wine may be sold and consumed on-site.

Who Needs a Type 41 License in LA?

You need a Type 41 license if you:

Operate a restaurant in Los Angeles
Want to serve beer and wine along with meals
Plan to offer an on-premises dining experience (not just takeout or food trucks)

Why Is the Type 41 License So Popular?

It’s the most common license for small-to-medium restaurants because:

It’s cheaper than full liquor licenses (like Type 47)
Wine and beer pair well with food = higher ticket value
You still maintain a family-friendly atmosphere
Alcohol boosts profit margins significantly

Type 41 License Requirements in Los Angeles

Before applying, make sure you meet these conditions:

Requirement	Details
Business Type	Must be a bona fide eating place (restaurant)
Food Sales	Must serve full meals, not just snacks
Seating Capacity	Typically must accommodate 10+ diners
Zoning Compliance	Must comply with local zoning laws in LA
Location Approval	You need city and community approval
ABC Training	Must complete the LEAD training program

Step-by-Step: How to Get a Type 41 License in LA

Check Local Zoning Laws
Visit the Los Angeles City Planning Department to ensure your location allows alcohol sales.
Prepare Required Documents
- Business license
- Floor plan
- Lease agreement or proof of ownership
- Menu showing meal service
- Proof of food handling permit
Apply Through the California ABC
Go to abc.ca.gov and complete the Type 41 application.
Post Public Notice
You’ll need to post a public notice at your restaurant for 30 days.
Community Input & Investigation
ABC will evaluate:
- Community protests
- Proximity to schools or churches
- Crime rates in the area
Final Inspection & Approval
If all is clear, you’ll receive your Type 41 license.

Cost of Type 41 License in Los Angeles

Fee Type	Amount
Application Fee	$100–$400 (non-refundable)
Annual Fee	~$455/year (subject to changes)
Transfer Fee (if buying existing)	Additional charges may apply

Tip: You can often buy a Type 41 license from a previous owner, but transfers still require ABC approval.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Type 41 License?

30 to 90 days, depending on:
- Neighborhood feedback
- Application completeness
- Criminal background checks

Rules and Restrictions of a Type 41 License

Cannot serve hard liquor
Cannot sell alcohol after 2:00 AM
Must ID-check anyone under 35
Must serve meals during all hours alcohol is available
Cannot promote alcohol as the primary attraction

Can You Deliver Beer or Wine with a Type 41 License?

Yes—but only under temporary COVID-era delivery laws, which may vary by city. As of 2025, delivery and to-go sales are not automatically allowed unless ABC grants permission.

Type 41 vs Type 47 License: What’s the Difference?

Feature	Type 41	Type 47
Alcohol Types	Beer & Wine	Full Liquor
Food Requirement	Required	Required
Annual Fee	~$455	~$1,000+
Common Users	Small Restaurants, Cafés	Bars, Full-Service Restaurants
Minimum Seating	10+	30+

Tips to Maximize Profits with a Type 41 License

Offer wine pairings or local craft beer
Promote drink specials on Instagram & Yelp
Host private tasting events
Curate a small but elegant beverage list
Avoid violations—train staff regularly

Legal Risks of Violating License Terms

Selling alcohol without a license or violating the terms can result in

License suspension or revocation
Fines up to $10,000
Criminal charges

Always stay updated. California ABC

Success Story: LA Restaurant Owner’s Journey

“After getting our Type 41 license, we saw a 30% revenue jump within 3 months. Customers love pairing our pasta with red wine. It changed everything.”
— Miguel R., Italian Restaurant Owner in Silver Lake, LA

Final Thoughts: Should You Get a Type 41 License?

If you own or plan to open a restaurant in LA, a Type 41 alcohol license is an affordable, legal, and profitable way to offer beer and wine to your guests.

It helps you: