On-Sale Beer Permit: Nashville restaurant guide

Metro Beer Permit Board

What it is

The local permit to sell beer (up to 8% alcohol by weight, about 10.1% ABV) for drinking on site. TABC liquor licenses do NOT cover regular beer, so most restaurants that serve alcohol need this too.

When a restaurant needs it

Any restaurant or bar selling beer for on-premises consumption.

How to apply

Apply and pay in ePermits (Beer Permit Application). You must also submit your own national background checks. Staff inspect the premises, and the Board hears the application at a regular meeting.

Documents you’ll need

• Proof of property control (lease/deed)
• Written verification of compliance from Metro Health
• Written verification of compliance from the Fire Marshal
• Owner/manager required information and national background checks
• Business license and Sales & Use Tax certificate
• Secretary of State certificate of existence (entities)
• Floor plan

Good to know

Missing Health Department or Fire Marshal verification can result in automatic deferral to a later meeting. The Executive Director can issue a temporary permit that expires at the next Board meeting where your application can be heard (30 days max) once all documents are in. Permits can't be transferred to a new owner.

Official source

Metro Beer Permits — Apply · Beer Board Rules & Regulations (PDF)

Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.