Getting Ready For Summer
By Bruce D. Stevenson
Superintendent, Ohio Division of Liquor Control
Businesses are always looking for ways to attract new customers. For many bars and restaurants, having an area to accommodate patrons who want to enjoy the warm summer weather and dine or drink outdoors is beneficial. This often requires an expansion of the defined permit premises to include a patio, balcony or other outdoor area. Any such expansion requires approval from the Division. Between now and July 4th is the busy season for us as the Division becomes inundated with expansion requests. So, if you’re planning an expansion, please submit your requests as soon as possible. We’re here to help by providing the information you need and assist you through this process so you can take advantage of your outdoor space and grow your business.
An expansion such as a deck or patio must be on a common piece of ground and/or adjacent to the current permit premises with proper ingress and egress. In addition, the expansion area must be well defined, properly secured, and delineated by some type of physical structure such as a fence, wall, or dense shrubbery. You may also need a duplicate bar permit if the proposed expansion includes a third fixed bar or service counter.
The environmental impact on the surrounding area of the permit premises will also be taken into consideration, and all changes in the permit premises must comply with state and city/township codes, as well as all Division of Liquor Control rules and regulations.
Temporary expansions will not be approved.
You must receive approval before using any expanded area. Requests should be submitted in writing to the Division’s Investigative Services Unit using the “Request for Expansion/Diminution of Permit Premises” form (form DLC 4248) available on our website. Your request should include a diagram, rough sketch or blueprint showing the proposed expansion, and the form must be signed by the permit holder of record, not a manager or other employee. In addition, you must also show proof that you have tenancy to operate in the area of the proposed expansion.
Once we receive your request, one of our Compliance Officers will visit your business to view the proposed expansion. Make sure to have ready your food service operator’s license, vendor's license and liquor permit. We want to make this process as easy and efficient as possible. You’ll receive approval or denial of a proposed expansion within 20 working days of the date of our inspection.
If you would like more information on how to expand your permit premises, please call the Division’s Investigative Services Unit at (614) 644-2455, or visit the Division’s web site at www.com.ohio.gov/liqr.