Every cent matters! In an effort to reduce postage and material costs, new or renewed license certificates will be mailed in a standard business-size envelope, rather than 9x12 mailers. The envelopes are stamped "License Certificate Enclosed". The OLCC expects to save approximately $10,000 per year from this change. While this may not seem like much, it is an example of the many ways the OLCC is saving costs and streamlining operations to preserve Oregon resources. Please contact us if you have questions.

Recent media attention has raised questions by many about a booth operated by the Oregon Bartenders' Guild that is selling hard liquor.

Hopefully we can clear up some of the confusion as to how allowing this booth to temporarily sell alcohol is different than issuing an annual license to a food cart.

In Oregon, distilled spirits (hard liquor) by the bottle are sold only in retail liquor stores. The State owns the distilled spirits in each store.

Independent contractors (liquor store operators) are responsible for the stores' daily operations. Liquor store operators and their employees are part of a small business operation and are not state employees. Store operators are appointed by the OLCC. The process for becoming a store operator is open and competitive to those who meet the qualifications.

Renewal dates for liquor licenses are determined by the location of the business. Oregon is divided into four renewal districts, with all licenses within a district expiring on the same date.

License renewal applications are mailed approximately two months before the licenses expire. The license applicant must return the completed application to the OLCC at least 20 days before the license expires to avoid late fees. Applicants cannot legally sell or serve alcohol after the license expires.

If you are planning a wedding and thinking about serving alcohol, you may be wondering if you need a liquor license.

You don't need a liquor license if you are serving alcohol, but not accepting payment or donations for it. A license is required if you will serve alcohol to your guests who will pay or donate money for their drink.

If you are using a caterer, make sure that they have a liquor license if your guests will be paying for their alcoholic beverages.

The rule restricting advertising, OAR 845-007-0020, was revised effective May 1, 2010. Businesses may now advertise "Happy Hour" or similar terms outside of their establishment. This includes signs, radio, tv, newspaper, magazines, and the internet.