Tips for success
What not to do
- Do not sell alcohol to people under age 21 or hire anyone under the age of 18. Insist on an ID.
- Do not let anyone drink on your premises after hours, including employees.
- Do not allow anyone to take open containers of alcohol from your premises.
- Do not allow unlawful gambling on your premises.
- Do not violate your occupancy limit. This includes both inside and outside.
What to do
- Be a good neighbor.
- Notify the police of illegal activity.
- Pick up litter each day.
- Keep your insurance up-to-date.
- Have an exit plan for closing time. Encourage patrons to leave without disturbing nearby neighbors.
- Follow your approved business plan, including hours, security and entertainment.
- Pay your taxes, fees, assessments and fines. We cannot approve a license if you owe money to the City or State of Minnesota.
- Provide alcohol service training to employees within 60 days of hire and each year after. Training topics should include:
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- Laws about sale of alcohol
- Rules for identification checks
- Recognizing intoxicated persons
- Responsibilities of businesses that serve intoxicating liquors
Discourage patrons from drinking too much
- Limit drink specials.
- Create appetizer and drink offers.
- Offer food specials during happy hour.
- Add more virgin drinks to your menu.
- Install kitchen equipment to diversify your menu.
- Advertise food specials.
Tell us about changes to your business
Let us know if you make any changes to your business:
- Failure to report may result in adverse license action.
- The City Council must approve when an alcohol business makes a change in:
- Owner, officer, director, shareholder or manager
- Physical space, such as enlarging your premises or adding a sidewalk cafe