Questions? Contact License Specialist Wendy Mayer at 319-356-5042.

New license applicants should contact Building Specialist, Cynthia Marx, at 319-356-5123 to verify zoning requirements.

To obtain an alcohol license within the City of Iowa City, you must apply for your alcohol license with the Iowa Department of Revenue and the Iowa City Clerk's Office. The licensing process takes at least 30 days to complete and requires City Council approval prior to issuance. Your applications must be fully completed and the Iowa Department of Revenue must show your application status as “Submitted to Local Authority” before you are placed on the City Council agenda for consideration.

Information regarding Alcoholic Beverages can be found in the Iowa City City Code, Title 4, Alcoholic Beverages.

Step 1 - Iowa Department of Revenue Application (ABD)

For businesses involved in the sale of alcoholic beverages, a Liquor License or Beer Permit is necessary. These permits are issued by the Iowa Department of Revenue (ABD). Information and applications for new or renewal can be found on the Iowa Department of Revenue - Alcohol  website.

In addition to the electronic filing of the application with the State, the City has requirements which must be met before new or renewal licenses/permits are issued.

Step 2 - City Application

The City's online Liquor License application must be accessed through the Customer Self Service Portal (CSS).

The self-service portal requires a one-time registration process for use. Customers must designate a single email address for creating a portal account to receive email notifications about application status updates, invoices, and process information. Within the online application you will need to submit a City addendum and a sketch of the establishment.

For more information about how to use the CSS, visit How to Use the Portal.       

New Businesses will also need to attach a Verified Statement and a copy of a lease or bill of sale.

DCI background checks for each owner and manager must be sent to License Specialist Wendy Mayer. DCI background checks are $15/each. Payment must be received with application submittal. If you have questions, please call 319-356-5042.

Step 3 - Additional Privileges (Optional)

If you would like to add an additional privilege to your license, you must use the following forms and submit/attach with your on-line application.

• Outdoor Service Area
  Selling alcohol outdoors on private property requires an Outdoor Service Area Permit. Contact the City Clerk's Office if you have any questions. Additional information can be found in the Iowa City City Code, Title 4, Chapter 3.
• Persons Under the Legal Age in Licensed or Permitted Establishments
  Your business may be eligible for an under 21 Exception permit, (renewal of permit), or Entertainment permit. This allows people under 21 in the establishment after 10 p.m. Please call the City Clerk's Office if you have any questions concerning these permits. Additional information can be found in the Iowa City City Code, Title 4, Chapter 5, Section 8.  Under 21 FAQ.
• Sidewalk Café
  A sidewalk café is an area for the sale of alcohol, food, or beverages on City-owned property. A number of requirements must be met before the application and application fee can be processed by the Public Works Department. Additional information can be found in the Iowa City City Code, Title 10, Chapter 10, Section 3. Contact the Public Works Department at 319-356-5139 for additional information.

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