Introduction

If you want to operate a small bar in NSW, you'll need to apply for a small bar liquor licence.

A small bar licence allows you to sell alcohol for consumption on the licensed premises, but does not allow gaming.

This liquor licence allows a maximum of 120 customers on the premises during authorised trading hours.

Eligibility

You must be 18 years or older.

What you need

Before you apply for a small bar licence you must check with the local council if you need to lodge a new development consent application.

When you're ready to apply, you’ll need:

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

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

How to apply

  1. Check the eligibility requirements.
  2. Gather required documents.
  3. Select the 'Apply online' button.
  4. Log in or create an account.
  5. Follow the prompts to complete your application.

More information

Site notice

If you were required to submit a SoRPE with your application, you will need to put up site notices. Once your application is lodged, you will be sent a public site notice. You need to attach the notice to your premises until the application is granted. Council, police and agency stakeholders will be automatically notified of your application.

You must also notify:

  • neighbouring premises within a 100-metre radius of your venue
  • recognised leaders or representatives of the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and social services in the local government area.

If you wish to complete the site notice manually at your convenience before you lodge your application, you can download a site notice form.

Your application will be advertised on the Liquor & Gaming Application Noticeboard for 30 days for community consultation before it is assessed.

Authorisations and extensions

You can tailor your licence to meet your needs by applying for authorisations and exemptions, for example extended opening hours and takeaway liquor sales. For more information, visit the Small bar licence page on the Liquor & Gaming NSW website.

Interim small bar authorisation

In certain circumstances you may be eligible to apply for an interim small bar authorisation (ISA). The ISA allows you to begin trading 2 days after you have informed NSW Police and your local council when you wish to operate, and after you've lodged your licence application with Liquor & Gaming NSW. For more information, visit the Small bar licence page on the Liquor & Gaming NSW website.

Last updated: 4 February 2025

Rate the information on the page