Apply for an Annual Liquor License

Highlights:

• All applications should be submitted through the online application website.
• Getting a Local Government Recommendation takes about 45 days.

Step 1: Information To Complete Your Application

As of 07/01/2025, you will not need to submit a Zoning Confirmation Map.

1. Download and complete the Local Government Recommendation from the OLCC website. You will need to upload this to the portal as a signed PDF document. (Previously known as the OLCC application.)

   Questions about what kind of license you need? You must call the OLCC Licensing Help Line at 503-872-5217. 

2. Personal information for all persons who are anticipated to have a financial interest in the business, as well as key personnel. 

   Required information: Legal name, social security number, contact information, driver's license state and number, and Life Long Arrest Record/DMV record (if any, note that if you fail to include DMV violation or arrest information, that may result in application rejection).

3. Business operations information - contact information, contact person, anticipated hours and days of operations, and expected activities (video poker, dancing, live music, etc). 

Step 2: Submit Application Online

If you have questions or are having trouble, please contact liquor@portlandoregon.gov before finalizing your application. 

1. Create an account and log in at the City of Portland Online Portal
2. Select "Liquor", agree to the disclaimer, click the arrow beside "City of Portland Liquor Applications", and choose "Annual Liquor Application"
3. Input the address information.
4. Determine Initial Application Type:
   1. Select New Outlet for:
      • New License Application
      • Greater Privilege of an existing license
      • Adding a Licensee of Record to an existing license
   2. Select Change of Ownership for:
      • This business has an existing liquor license and is changing ownership or adding new owners.
   3. Select Change of Location for:
      • This business has an existing annual liquor license and is changing its location.
5. Fill out the required fields.
6. Upload required documents as PDFs
   1. Local Government Recommendation
   2. DMV traffic incident record only if you have any traffic crimes: Conviction for driving under the influence of intoxicants (DUII), hit and run, reckless driving, driving with suspended license.
   3. Any arrest records from the appropriate law enforcement agency, if you have any records.

NOTE: Failure to upload applicable DMV violation and arrest records may result in rejection of the application.

7. Pay your processing fee (non-refundable once processing has begun) - $75 or $100 depending on the application type.

8. Submit!

Step 3: Submit Recommendation to the OLCC

1. Receive an email recommendation from the City of Portland about 45 days after your application has been accepted. Save the email's attached document - this is your Local Government Recommendation.
2. Submit recommendation directly to the OLCC following the rules on the OLCC website.

If you need an accommodation because of a disability or because you do not have access to online systems, please send an email to liquor@portlandoregon.gov requesting support.