Permit guides › Washington, D.C. › DC-TR-09
Stipulated License (Operate During Protest Period): Washington, D.C. restaurant guide
ABCA / ABC Board
What it is
Lets a new licensee sell alcohol during the 45-day public notice period before the permanent license is issued.
When a restaurant needs it
Optional; only with a letter of support from the affected ANC.
How to apply
Send a letter to the ABC Board requesting a stipulated license, with the ANC's support letter.
Documents you’ll need
- Request letter to the ABC Board
- ANC letter of support
Fee
$100
Processing time
Board decision at a regular meeting
Renewal
Ends when the permanent license is issued or a protestant is granted standing at the roll call hearing
Who files
Applicant or their attorney.
Good to know
Getting ANC support early pays off twice: it makes a stipulated license possible and makes a protest less likely.
Official source
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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.