What happens if I get caught selling to an under aged customer?
You will receive a certified letter with a statement of charges and be required to appear before the Board of License Commissioners in a public hearing. A decision will be made regarding your case and you will be notified of the Board's decision and associated fines, court charges, or other rulings.
What happens if I get caught buying liquor when I am under aged?
You will receive a citation and must appear in district court. Punishment may include fines, probation, and the incident will appear on your record.
I have observed an establishment violate one or more rules; what can I do about it?
If you have a legitimate complaint, please contact the Board of License Commissioners at 410-996-5215.
Is there a residency requirement in Cecil County to apply for a license and if so, what is the requirement?
Individual--Must be a two-year resident and a registered voter in Cecil County
Partnership--Both persons must be a two-year resident and a registered voter in Cecil County
Limited Liability Company--At least one member must be a two-year resident as well as a registered voter in Cecil County
Corporation--At least one person must be a two-year resident and a registered voter in Cecil County
What is the process to change an officer on a liquor license?
A Change of Officers' form must be completed, submitted and approved by the Board.
How old do you have to be to serve alcohol/be a bartender in Cecil County?
A person 18 years of age or older may be employed to sell, serve, deliver or otherwise deal with alcoholic beverages.
What are the basic requirements to obtain a liquor license in Cecil County?
Cecil County resident for minimum of two years prior to filling an application
Must be a registered voter, taxpayer, and a U.S. citizen
A comprehensive criminal background check is required on all persons applying for a liquor license
How and where do I apply for a liquor license?
Applications and accompanying documents are available in the Board's office located at: 200 Chesapeake Boulevard, Suite 1600, Elkton, MD 21921. Staff is available to provide assistance and answer questions Tuesday and Friday from 8 AM to 4:30 PM - Wednesday and Thursday 8 AMto 12 noon.
How do I obtain a criminal background report?
Fingerprint cards are available in the Board office. You may schedule an appointment at any of the local police departments to complete the fingerprints. Staff is available by appointment to complete the fingerprints at any of the local police departments.
What is the cost of applying for a liquor license?
A non-refundable $600 filing fee is required with application.
What occurs at the public hearing concerning my application?
A public hearing is your opportunity to present your case to the Liquor Board when applying for a license. Other interested parties may attend the hearing and are also given an opportunity to speak regarding your application. Liquor licenses are issued based upon the applicant being a fit person to receive the license, as well as proving the need to accommodate the public. The Liquor Board will make an oral decision (approval or denial) at the conclusion of the public hearing.
May I appeal a decision of the Liquor Board?
An appeal of a Liquor Board decision must be filed within 30 days of issuance of the written decision to the Circuit Court for Cecil County.
