California Type 23 Small Beer Manufacturer License
A Core License For Small And Emerging Breweries
California’s craft beer industry includes many small production breweries, taprooms, and shared brewing facilities. A large number of these operations rely on the Type 23 Small Beer Manufacturer License, which is tailored to smaller producers.
With a Type 23 license, you can combine brewing, tasting, and limited distribution under a single manufacturer license, subject to ABC and federal rules.
What The Type 23 License Generally Allows
A properly structured Type 23 operation can:
- Brew beer on site as a small manufacturer
- Operate a tasting room or taproom on the premises, when approved
- Sell beer directly to consumers for on-site tasting and off-site consumption
- Engage in limited self-distribution to retailers or wholesalers, within legal limits
Because Type 23 is a manufacturer license, it interacts with California’s three-tier system, so it must be planned carefully.
When To Use Type 23 In California
Type 23 is often the right choice for:
- Start-up breweries looking for manageable production limits
- Breweries that want to focus on a tasting room rather than a full restaurant
- Producers planning measured growth with both direct retail and some distribution
How Liquor License Agents Helps Type 23 Breweries
We work with brewery founders and owners to:
- Confirm that Type 23 is appropriate compared with other manufacturer licenses
- Align ABC licensing with TTB brewer registration, labeling, and tax reporting
- Review potential sites for zoning, conditional use permits, and parking requirements
- Assist with premise expansions, new tasting rooms, or changes in ownership as you grow
California Type 23 FAQs
1. Do I need an additional retail license for my tasting room if I hold a Type 23 license?
Often the tasting room can operate under your Type 23 manufacturer license, provided it is approved in your ABC application. We help structure your premises diagram and operations accordingly.
2. Can I self-distribute my beer under a Type 23 license?
Many Type 23 licensees have some self-distribution rights, subject to restrictions. We explain how those privileges work so you can plan your sales channels.
3. What federal requirements apply to a Type 23 brewery?
You must obtain TTB brewer permits, maintain accurate records, pay excise taxes, and comply with federal labeling rules.
4. How long does it take to bring a new Type 23 brewery online in California?
Expect a multi-month process that includes ABC licensing, federal approvals, build-out, and local permits and inspections.
5. Can a Type 23 brewery also run a full restaurant?
Yes, many breweries choose to add a restaurant component. This can involve combining the Type 23 license with on-sale licenses for the restaurant. We design a licensing plan that covers both production and dining.
If you are planning a microbrewery, production facility, or taproom in California, contact Liquor License Agents to develop a Type 23 licensing strategy that fits your growth plans.