An important deadline is approaching for restaurants and bars in New York State with a liquor license.

On-premises licensees (bar, tavern, restaurant, etc.) that want to remain open on New Year’s Eve beyond their stipulated closing hour must file a permit application with the SLA (State Liquor Authority) by November 16, 2021.

Despite the fact that it is referred to as an “all-night permit”, this permit is required for your establishment if you simply wish to stay open past either the time designated by your county—for example, in Cayuga County, you would file this permit application if you wish to stay open until 4 A.M. instead of the 2 A.M. required closing time—or if you want to stay open past the time you specifically agreed to with your municipality and the SLA—for example, if your license indicates that you agreed with your town to close by midnight each night, you would have to apply to stay open past midnight on New Year’s Eve.

Notice of the licensee’s intent to apply for an all-night permit must be sent to the local police department or, if there is no local police department, to the County Sheriff’s Department. The SLA will review each application based on criteria that include the licensee’s disciplinary history and whether adequate security plans are in place for the event. Applications that are denied can be appealed. There is an application fee of $61 per point of sale. More information can be found here.

Hancock Estabrook, LLP is available to file all-night permit applications on your behalf. We encourage you to reach out to us if we can be of service.

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