On-Premises Liquor license (OP) — full bar: New York City restaurant guide
NYS Liquor Authority
What it is
The state license to serve spirits (plus beer, cider, wine). Beer-and-wine-only places use the cheaper Restaurant Wine / Eating Place Beer classes (TR-26); this is the class subject to the 500-foot law.
When a restaurant needs it
Serving liquor / cocktails.
How to apply
Use the SLA Application Wizard to identify your license class and fee, complete the fillable application forms provided through NY Business Express, then print and mail the package to the SLA (P.O. Box 782772, Philadelphia, PA 19178-2772). NYC applicants must send the Standardized Notice Form to their Community Board at least 30 (and no more than 270) days before filing.
Documents you’ll need
- Lease or contract for the premises
- Premises diagrams / floor plan
- Photos
- Menu
- Personal questionnaires & financial disclosures
- Entity filing receipt (DOS) or assumed-name certificate
- Photo ID
- Community Board notice form + proof of delivery
- Penal bond (Form L-9) if the Wizard requires one
- CO / LNO
Good to know
Confirmed on the SLA fee chart (columns A and B). Wine / beer-only licenses are NOT subject to the 500-foot or 200-foot rules — only liquor is. NYC on-premises applicants may now apply for a Temporary Retail Permit while the application is pending (TR-34).
Official source
SLA — restaurant license reference · SLA — how to apply
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.