Special Events Permits

In New York, a variety of special event permits allow for the sale and service of alcohol, including beer, wine, cider, and liquor, at a specific gathering for up to 24 consecutive hours. These permits, issued by the New York State Liquor Authority (SLA), are limited in duration but can allow for existing licensees or individuals to sell alcohol at either on-premises or off-premises events. Common permits include:

One-Day Alcohol Event Permit: Also known as a Temporary Alcohol Permit (previously known as a One-Day Beer and Wine Permit), a One-Day Alcohol Event Permit authorizes the sale and/or service of wine, beer, cider and liquor for consumption at a gathering for a period of 24 hours. All alcoholic beverages sold by the permittee must be consumed within the area that is licensed (i.e. a tent or booth), and, with the exception of some non-profit organizations, ABC Law limits the number of One-Day Alcohol Event Permits that can be issued for a location to four during a 12-month period.
Catering Permit: A Catering Permit is a one-day permit that authorizes currently licensed on-premises retailers to provide alcoholic beverages at specific, private events located off-premises. Applicants for this permit must also provide food, in addition to alcoholic beverages at the event.
All Night Permit: An All Night Permit authorizes an on-premises licensee to remain open to sell alcoholic beverages between their usual closing hour and 8AM on New Year's Eve. Notice of a Licensee’s intent to apply for the permit must be sent to the local police department or County Sheriff Department and Community Board.

Our attorneys can help apply for the permit that best fits your event and ensure any alcohol-related activities comply with state law and are submitted within SLA required timelines. If you would like to schedule an initial consultation regarding a special event permit, please contact us through our website or by phone: (212) 835-6768 in New York City or (609) 480-3080 in Princeton, New Jersey.