Don’t Let Licensing “Sour” Liquor Store Deal

State by state, city by city, there are licensing requirements that need to be investigated before getting too far into a deal. For example, if your plan was to buy multiple liquor stores in Kansas, you should know that only one license per individual is allowed. What this means is that you would need a spouse and kids (of age) to own each store! That, or partner with other people to buy the stores and have each person obtain a license.

Don’t Wait To Get Started! The licensing process takes at least a month if not more!
You must follow up with the bureau and the individual working your file because they usually don’t proactively call you. In our experience you have to stay on top of the process. This definitely applies in a situation where they are missing a certain document. If you don’t follow up with them, it may sit on their desk for days.

(Note: The following requirements do not apply to serving alcohol at bars and restaurants.)

Kansas Requirements/Limitations:
You cannot be a C-Corporation (You must be a sole proprietor, S-Corp or LLC)
You must live in Kansas for a minimum period of time to operate a retail liquor store
It takes a minimum of 30 days to receive a liquor license
The state does a background check before granting your request for a license

Missouri Requirements/Limitations:
There is no limit to the number of stores an individual can own
There is a residency requirement
For more information, please visit the following resources:

KS: http://www.ksrevenue.org/abc.html
MO: http://www.sos.mo.gov/adrules/csr/current/11csr/11c70-2.pdf