Licence to serve alcohol
German: Schankerlaubnis / Gaststättenerlaubnis Also known as: Gaststättenerlaubnis, Schankkonzession, Gaststättenkonzession
Official permission to serve alcoholic drinks in a restaurant or pub.
Anyone serving alcohol commercially generally needs an official licence or at least a trade registration. Since the federalism reform, responsibility lies with the federal states, so requirements and authorities may differ. In some states the classic licence has been dropped in favour of a notification duty.
Usually reliability, suitability of premises, and hygiene and noise protection are examined. Serving without permission risks fines. Those planning should enquire beforehand with the responsible municipality. The applicable regulations are authoritative.
Related terms
HACCP (food hygiene)Youth protection (alcohol sales)Temporary licence
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