Malibu Type 57 Special On-Sale General License – Malibu Type 57 License
Bars, nightclubs, cocktail lounges, and entertainment venues in Malibu that want to serve a full range of alcoholic beverages without the requirement to operate primarily as a food service establishment need a California Liquor License Type 48. Malibu's coastal bars, beach clubs, and entertainment venues along Pacific Coast Highway rely on Type 48 licenses to serve full cocktail menus until 2:00 AM, supporting the sun-and-surf social scene and the after-dinner nightlife culture that draws visitors from across Los Angeles to Malibu's legendary stretch of coastline. Unlike the Type 47, the Type 48 does not require a bona fide eating place designation—making it the go-to license for venues where the bar is the primary attraction. The Type 48 permits service until 2:00 AM and allows closed containers of beer or wine to be sold for off-premises consumption.
What the Type 48 License Authorizes in Malibu
A Type 48 license in Malibu generally allows you to:
• Serve beer, wine, and distilled spirits for on-premises consumption without a food service requirement
• Operate a bar, nightclub, cocktail lounge, or entertainment venue
• Serve alcohol until 2:00 AM
• Sell closed containers of beer or wine for off-premises consumption
Is a Type 48 License Right for Your Malibu Business?
A Type 48 license may be the right fit if:
• Your Malibu concept is a bar, nightclub, lounge, or entertainment venue where alcohol is the primary draw
• You do not plan to operate primarily as a food service establishment
• You want to serve cocktails, spirits, beer, and wine until 2:00 AM
• Your business model centers on bar revenue, cover charges, or a nightlife-oriented experience
How Liquor License Agents Helps Type 48 Buyers and Applicants in Malibu
Type 48 licenses are among the most scrutinized by ABC, local city officials, and neighborhood groups. Malibu and Los Angeles County impose strict conditional use, security, and operational requirements on bars and nightclubs. Liquor License Agents assists by:
• Evaluating your Malibu location for zoning eligibility, distance requirements, and CUP history
• Advising on whether to purchase an existing Type 48 license or apply for a new one
• Brokering the purchase and transfer of existing Type 48 licenses from sellers in the open market
• Preparing ABC applications, premises diagrams, security plans, and ownership disclosures
• Coordinating with Malibu and county officials on operating conditions, entertainment permits, and hours of operation
• Representing you during public posting, protest hearings, and ABC enforcement proceedings
Our goal is to keep license work in sync with your lease, build-out, and opening timeline so alcohol permissions are not the last piece to fall into place.
Malibu Type 48 Liquor License FAQs
What is the difference between a Type 47 and a Type 48 license in Malibu?
A Type 47 is issued to a bona fide eating place and requires regular food service alongside alcohol, while a Type 48 is issued to bars and nightclubs where food service is not the primary activity. If your Malibu venue is primarily a bar or lounge rather than a restaurant, a Type 48 is the appropriate license.
Does a Type 48 license require me to serve food in Malibu?
No. Unlike the Type 47, a Type 48 does not require you to operate as a bona fide eating place. You may still choose to serve food at your Malibu bar or nightclub, but food service is not a condition of maintaining your license.
Are minors allowed in a Type 48 licensed establishment in Malibu?
Generally, minors are not permitted on the premises of a Type 48 licensed establishment unless specific conditions are met or they are accompanied by a parent or guardian. Malibu and Los Angeles County may impose additional restrictions. Always review your specific license conditions.
Is the Type 48 license quota-restricted in Malibu?
Yes. Type 48 licenses are quota-restricted based on census tract population. In many parts of Malibu and Los Angeles County, new Type 48 licenses are difficult to obtain from ABC directly. Purchasing an existing license from a seller on the open market is often the most practical and time-efficient approach.
What security and operating conditions typically come with a Type 48 license in Malibu?
Type 48 licensees in Malibu frequently face conditions including security personnel requirements, camera systems, hours restrictions, prohibition on certain entertainment types, and regular compliance checks. We help you understand and negotiate conditions before you commit to a location.
How long does it take to obtain or transfer a Type 48 license in Malibu?
Acquiring a Type 48 in Malibu typically takes several months. Given the scrutiny that bars and nightclubs receive from ABC, local government, and community groups, protests are relatively common. Having complete, well-prepared applications and a track record of compliance helps speed the process.
Schedule an Appointment | (800) 799-9081
If you are opening, acquiring, or planning a business in Malibu that needs a Type 48 license, call (800) 799-9081 to schedule an appointment and review your options, neighborhood requirements, and deal structures with an experienced advisor.