Copyright 2021 by Forsyth County, Georgia

License to Sell Alcohol

All businesses that serve or sell alcohol in unincorporated Forsyth County must apply for a local alcohol license. New alcohol applications require an appointment, please contact Alcohol@forsythco.com to schedule an appointment.

Download Alcohol Ordinance

Liquor Store Tasting Event: Online Form

Local Alcohol Mapping Project (LAMP)

Alcohol License

Alcohol Application

This application is to request the standard alcohol license for consumption or package establishments. Approved license are valid for the remainder of the calendar year. An appointment is REQUIRED for in person submission, please call 678-455-9888 or email ARBelt@forsythco.com.


Alcohol Distance Requirements

Identification of minimum distances required for alcohol establishments to comply with O.C.G.A. § 3-3-21; O.C.G.A. § 20-2-690, rule 560-2-2-.12.


Alcohol Licensee Change Application

This application allows current establishments that hold an existing alcohol license to change the named licensee only. This application must be submitted in person by the named licensee.


Application for Special Event Alcohol Permit for Forsyth County Businesses

This application allows businesses with an existing alcohol license for consumption, granted by Forsyth County or the City of Cumming, to request the ability to operate a one day cash bar at a location other than the licensed premises. A special event alcohol permit will be granted to the same licensee a maximum of twelve days per calendar year.


Application for Special Event Alcohol Permit for Non-Forsyth County Businesses

This application allows businesses with an existing alcohol license for consumption, granted by a local government other than Forsyth County or the City of Cumming, to request the ability to operate a one day cash bar at a location other than the licensed premises. A special event alcohol permit will be granted to the same licensee a maximum of twelve days per calendar year.


Application for Temporary Nonprofit Alcohol Permit

This application allows nonprofit organizations the ability to request a temporary license to sell alcohol. A temporary nonprofit alcohol permit will be granted to the same applicant a maximum of twelve days per year.


Application for Wholesale Alcohol License

This application allows wholesale dealers in alcoholic beverages licensed by the State of Georgia to distribute such beverages to licensed retailers or dealers in unincorporated areas of Forsyth County.


Lanier Technical College Forsyth Conference Center Special Event Alcohol Permit Application

This application allows for profit businesses that possess a valid government-issued alcohol license for consumption on the premises, to request a permit to serve alcoholic beverages at the Lanier Technical College Forsyth Conference Center.


Site Plan Example


Survey Example


Frequently Asked Questions

What other applications are required?

A business license application is required with the completed alcohol application.

Do I need a survey?

No, if you are purchasing a business with an existing alcohol license (of the same type). 

Yes, if the location has never had an alcohol license or the license has expired within the last 12 months.

Can I apply for an alcohol license without a building or a completed building?

Yes, you can apply for a conditional alcohol license. Please see the Alcohol Ordinance for all requirements.

Who needs to take the alcohol training course?

All members of the LLC and the named licensee. The named licensee only for a Corporation.

What type of payments are acceptable?

We accept MasterCard, Visa, Check or Certified Check.

How do I get my fingerprints and background?

This step will be completed only after review of a completed alcohol application.

What is a registered agent?

A registered agent must complete the applicable part of the alcohol application and must be a Forsyth County Resident.

Does the named licensee need to be a Forsyth County resident?

No, if the licensee is not a Forsyth County resident, they must name a person who resides within Forsyth County.

Can I change the named licensee?

Yes, a change of licensee application will be required.

Can I transfer my alcohol license?

No, an alcohol license may not be transferred. A new application will be required.

Can I move my alcohol license to a new location?

Yes, a new application will be required.

What happens when the business is issued a citation for an alcohol violation?

A citation will be issued with a date to appear in Magistrate Court.

What happens if I pay a citation or plead guilty?

A finding of guilt of the employee or licensee, either by plea or judgement, in Magistrate Court may include a fine and will be proceeded by an administrative action. The licensee of the establishment will be notified and may incur progressive action up to or including suspension or revocation of the establishment’s alcohol license.

What if my business is issued several violations?

Violations are progressive, please see Section 1.11 Enforcement of this Ordinance, in the current Alcohol Ordinance.

Do I need to submit a floor plan?

Restaurants and liquor stores are required to submit floor plan.

What is a full-service kitchen?

A three compartment sink, permanently installed grill or stove and refrigerator (the floor plan must identify these and label).

What type of business qualifies for an alcohol license?

Brewery, Distillery, Restaurant (w/full-service kitchen), liquor store, convenience store with or without gas, wine shops. Exempt businesses include hotel, golf course, marina, bowling alley, art studio, cigar shops, vintage or luxury automobile storage facility, farm winery, wholesaler.

Do I need a DBA?

Yes, if you are a sole proprietor or using a name other than a name registered with the Georgia Secretary of State.

Where do I file a DBA?

A trade name or DBA is filed at the Forsyth County Clerk of Court. Link www.forsythclerk.com