San Diego County Type 40 On Sale Beer License
Some San Diego County venues want a beer-focused concept without the complexity of wine or spirits. The California Type 40 on-sale beer license is designed for these beer-centric bars, cafés, and entertainment spaces.
Liquor License Agents helps San Diego operators decide whether a Type 40 license is the right fit, then manages new applications and transfers so licensing tracks with their build-out and opening schedule.
What The Type 40 On Sale Beer License Authorizes In California
A Type 40 license is an on-sale beer–only license for public premises. In San Diego County, it typically allows you to:
- Serve beer in bottles, cans, and on draft for on-premises consumption
- Operate as an adult-oriented bar, beer bar, or similar venue
- Combine beer service with entertainment such as sports broadcasts, trivia, or live music, subject to local permits
- Run a concept that does not require a full kitchen or restaurant program
Wine and spirits are not permitted under a Type 40 license, which simplifies inventory and training.
When A Type 40 License Is Right For Your San Diego Bar, Café, Or Venue
A Type 40 license may be the best match if:
- Beer is the centerpiece of your concept, from craft drafts to rotating taps
- You plan to operate primarily as an adult venue, not a family restaurant
- Food will be limited, catered, or handled through food trucks or partnerships
- You want simpler licensing and operations than a full bar or restaurant license requires
If you want wine as well, a Type 42 license may be a better fit. For restaurants, a Type 41 or Type 47 license is usually more appropriate. We help you select the structure that matches how you actually intend to operate.
How Liquor License Agents Assists Type 40 Buyers And Sellers In San Diego County
Type 40 licenses often move as bar spaces change hands, remodel, or rebrand.
Liquor License Agents assists by:
- Reviewing your site, neighborhood, and concept to confirm a Type 40 license makes sense
- Determining whether a new license is realistic or whether you should buy and transfer an existing Type 40 license
- Assisting with valuation, negotiations, and escrow when a Type 40 license is part of a sale
- Preparing ABC applications, premises diagrams, and ownership disclosures for your public premises
- Coordinating with local planning and code enforcement on CUPs, hours, security, and entertainment approvals
- Monitoring ABC processing and helping you respond to questions or proposed license conditions
We aim to make beer-only licensing a clear and manageable part of your project.
San Diego County Type 40 On Sale Beer License FAQs
1. What can I serve with a California Type 40 on sale beer license?
You may serve beer for on-premises consumption in a public premises setting. That typically includes draft, bottled, and canned beer. Wine and spirits are not authorized under this license.
2. Do I need a full kitchen or food program to qualify for a Type 40 license in San Diego?
No. A Type 40 license does not require a full kitchen or bona fide eating place. Many Type 40 venues offer limited food or partner with outside vendors. Local CUP conditions, however, may include food-related expectations in certain districts.
3. Can I host live music, sports viewing, or entertainment with a Type 40 license?
Yes. Type 40 venues often feature TVs, games, and live entertainment, subject to local permits and conditions. Noise, hours, and security are common areas of focus. We help you align your entertainment plans with land use and licensing requirements.
4. Can I later upgrade from a Type 40 beer only license to a full liquor license?
Many operators start with a Type 40 license and later pursue a license that permits wine or spirits. Upgrading generally means applying for, or buying, a new license type, not just amending your existing license. We can help you plan for that transition as your business grows.
5. How long does it typically take to obtain or transfer a Type 40 license in San Diego County?
You should plan for several months, depending on ABC workload, local approvals, and any construction or tenant improvements. Early planning and thorough applications reduce the risk of delays.
6. What neighborhood, CUP, or zoning conditions may affect my Type 40 approval?
Zoning and CUP conditions may limit hours, occupancy, entertainment, outdoor areas, and signage. Some neighborhoods may have specific alcohol or noise policies. We review your site’s entitlements so your Type 40 license fits within the existing framework.
Schedule an Appointment | (800) 799-9081
If you are planning a beer-forward bar or venue in San Diego County and want to pursue a Type 40 license, you can call (800) 799-9081 to schedule an appointment and review licensing, CUP requirements, and transaction options with an experienced advisor.