As fall quickly approaches, so does the time to renew "A-Class" manufacturing permits with the Ohio Division of Liquor Control.
All Ohio A-Class manufacturing permits have a renewal deadline of October 1st, though technically speaking, this is the date the permit will expire, and renewal applications are due 15 days before this date, otherwise a 10% penalty is imposed.
What is needed to renew my permit?
In order to renew your Ohio brewery, distillery, or winery permit, you must submit a renewal application and pay any renewal fees. The permit renewal fees vary based upon what permit you are renewing. For a breakdown of permit fees by permit type click here.
This year, the Ohio Division of Liquor Control is encouraging permit holders to renew online, which can be completed here. When completing this application, it is important to list any changes in officers, shareholders, or members, and changes in operational status. It is important to note that this application can be rejected if any outstanding tax issues have not been resolved per R.C. 4303.271. To solve any tax delinquencies, permit holders may contact the Ohio Department of Taxation to identify what the issues are and how to resolve them.
What if you miss the renewal deadline?
A "tax hold" or missed permit fee can result in what is called a Non-Renewal Order. If this happens, a permit holder may file an appeal with the Ohio Liquor Control Commission to request the permit non-renewal order be temporary stayed and/or the permit be reinstated, subject to resolving the issues which triggered the Non-Renewal Order.
Takeaways
All Ohio A-Class manufacturing permits, regardless of county, are due for renewal by October 1st, and the renewal application and fees must be submitted 15 days in advance in order to avoid a 10% penalty fee.
To stay ahead of renewal issues, ensure all taxes are timely filed and paid, and ensure the application and renewal fees are adequately submitted prior to the permit renewal deadline. If you have questions or concerns regarding an Ohio liquor permit renewal, we recommend consulting with an attorney with experience in this area.