Apply for a limited liquor licence – special event

Introduction

A limited licence for a special event allows you to sell or supply alcohol at a venue if the selling and supplying of alcohol is not the sole reason for holding the event.

This type of liquor licence is for temporary and infrequent events. Events must be genuine and in the public interest. Expected patron capacity must be less than 2,000 people. 

For all the latest information you need to hold your special event, visit the Liquor & Gaming NSW website.

Eligibility

Individual applicants must be 18 years or older.

What you need

• a OneGov account or a MyServiceNSW Account
• your contact details
• name of the special event
• an explanation of how the event is in the public interest
• details of when and where the event will take place
• an explanation of why another type of liquor licence is not suited for this event
• a floor plan showing the proposed boundaries for the licensed area and key features, including entry/exit points, bar areas, any adjoining streets and the direction north.
• a plan or sketch of the proposed licensed premises
• details about the:
  • liquor and food to be served at the event
  • entertainment
  • sanitation and security arrangements
• number of patrons expected to attend
• liquor trading hours at the event
• details of the premises owner and business owner
• details of the applicant or organisation
• a plan of management – PDF
• payment.

If applicable:

• a copy of development consent or approval allowing the licence at your venue from your local council
• a completed applicant declaration – PDF 
• Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certificate or competency card number (if applying as an individual). You will also be required to have licensee training if the event is for over 2,000 patrons, and advanced licensee training if the event is over 2,000 patrons and runs past midnight. 

If you're applying as an organisation, you'll also need:

• ABN, ACN or Y/Inc
• current ASIC search containing details of directors and officeholders (if a corporation)
• a completed appointment of manager form –PDF (if applicable)
• a completed approved manager application – PDF.

How to apply

1. Check the eligibility requirements.
2. Gather the required documents.
3. Select the ‘Apply online’ button. 
4. Register or sign in to OneGov or your MyServiceNSW Account.
5. Follow the prompts to complete and submit your application. 

Note: Applications must be submitted at least 28 days before the start of the function. An extra fee will be charged for applications submitted late.

More information

• Liquor & Gaming NSW advises that event organisers download the licence conditions form – PDF and discuss it with NSW Police before lodging the application. Including the conditions form with the application may reduce processing time. 
• Your application will be advertised on the Liquor & Gaming Application Noticeboard for 14 days for community consultation before it is assessed. 

Payment methods