Restaurant Beverage Program (RBP) Administrative Clearance: Los Angeles restaurant guide
LA City Planning — BESt Unit
What it is
LA's streamlined alternative to a Conditional Use permit for alcohol at sit-down restaurants (in effect since March 31, 2022): staff-level approval in about four weeks instead of a months-long hearing.
When a restaurant needs it
Serving alcohol at a bona fide sit-down restaurant in an RBP-eligible area that meets the program's standards (e.g. 10–150 patron seats, hours between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m., Type 41 or 47 license, no live entertainment).
How to apply
Confirm eligibility in ZIMAS, file the RBP Application (CP-7845) in OAS and pay the review fee; after approval pay monitoring/inspection fees and record a Covenant with the County Registrar-Recorder; Planning then issues the RBP authorization and notifies ABC.
Documents you’ll need
- RBP Application Form CP-7845
- Floor plan with numbered seats, bars, signage and lighting (CP-7751)
- Site plan (CP-7752)
- Certificate of Occupancy
- Menu
- 'No Loitering or Public Drinking' signs (4x6 in. minimum at every exit)
Good to know
Bars, nightclubs and liquor stores aren't eligible; a stricter Alcohol Sensitive Use Zone version (RBPB) applies in some areas and requires community outreach. Staff must complete RBS/STAR/LEAD training within six months.
Official source
City Planning — Restaurant Beverage Program · RBP application instructions (CP-7850)
Answer a few questions about your space and get every permit in order, with a timeline, a cost range, walkthroughs, and every application filled in for you to sign with Open.
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.