The ABC Commission issues all ABC permits in accordance with the Alcoholic Beverage Control Laws and Rules of North Carolina, Chapter 18B. The ABC Commission reviews and issues one-time permits for limited special occasions and special events, as well as permits for retail and commercial activity.
You can now apply online by visiting the NC ABC website permitting page.
Types of Permits:
Limited Special Occasion & One-Time Permits
Limited Special Occasion permits are issued for individuals or groups hosting functions such as wedding receptions, company parties, etc.
Special one-time permits are issued to tax-exempt non-profit or political organizations for fundraising events.
- Applications for Limited Special Occasion and Special One-Time permits must be submitted at least 14 days before the event.
- Applications for one-time permits are accepted online, by mail, or in person at the ABC Commission.
Retail Permits
Retail permits are issued for restaurants, hotels, private clubs, grocery stores, convenience stores, or similar retail establishments.
Commercial Permits
Commercial permits are issued to qualified wholesalers, wineries, breweries, distilleries, or similar businesses for activities that include the manufacturing, production, and packaging of malt beverages and wine products.
- Retail and commercial permit applicants visiting the ABC Commission are to be seen by a permit specialist by appointment only. If you do not have an appointment, you may leave your completed permit application packet with the receptionist or in the drop box at the front of the Commission for review by a permit specialist. If issued, the temporary permit will be emailed to the applicant.