How to apply
Applicants wanting an alcoholic beverage permit processed by the City of Austin must follow these steps:
1. Apply through the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC)
Create an account and complete the application process in the State of Texas' Alcohol Industry Management System (AIMS). You can learn more about the licensing process on the State's TABC Licenses and Permits page.
Please call TABC directly at 512-206-3333 with any questions.
2. Contact the Office of the City Clerk
After you submit the AIMS application through TABC, call the Office of the City Clerk at 512-974-2210 to start the process of obtaining the City Clerk's signature. A tracking number will be provided to use as a reference for following the application through the City's process which includes obtaining zoning approval. To receive the tracking number, the applicant must provide the following information:
- Complete address/location
- Name of business (trade business)
- Name of the applicant/business (LLC name)
- First and last name of contact person
- Contact phone number
- Contact email address
- Liquor license type (the letter codes)
3. Receive zoning approval
The Development Services Department will notify the Clerk’s office once zoning is approved, and the Clerk's office will notify the applicant of approval.
4. Make an appointment with the City Clerk
Get the City Clerk’s signature by either:
- emailing the application to city.clerk@austintexas.gov
- calling 512-974-2210 to set an appointment (Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - noon)
- mailing the packet to:
Office of the City Clerk
P.O. Box 1088
Austin, TX 78767
If you choose to mail the packet, be sure to include a postage-paid return envelope.
Other approvals
To lawfully operate, TABC requires application approval from the City. Besides the TABC license or permit, the City of Austin may require additional approvals.