An event’s license in the Western Cape serves a crucial purpose in facilitating the legal sale and consumption of alcohol at temporary gatherings or functions.
Here follows a breakdown of its uses and significance:
LEGAL COMPLIANCE:
No one is allowed to manufacture or sell liquor without a licence.
Organizing events where alcohol will be served or sold without the appropriate license is illegal in the Western Cape. The definition for “sale” in the Act is very wide. If you want to “give away” liquor where an admission fee is charged, it is deemed to be “sale of liquor”.
An events license ensures that organizers comply with relevant regulations and laws governing the sale and consumption of alcohol, thereby avoiding potential legal consequences.
TEMPORARY PERMISSION:
Unlike permanent liquor licenses for establishments like bars or restaurants, an event’s license provides temporary permission to serve alcohol at a specific location and for the duration of the event only. This flexibility allows for the legal sale and consumption of alcohol at events such as festivals, concerts, weddings, corporate functions and community gatherings.
PUBLIC SAFETY:
Before an event’s license is issued, the Presiding Officer (P.O.) of the Western Cape Liquor Licensing Authority’s (WCLA) Liquor Licensing Tribunal (LLT), thoroughly assesses various factors of the application, such as security arrangements, crowd control measures, and responsible service practices. By obtaining a license, event organizers commit to maintaining a safe and controlled environment, minimizing the risk of alcohol-related incidents or disturbances.
SUPPORTING LOCAL ECONOMY:
Events that include the sale of alcohol can contribute to the local economy by generating revenue for vendors, suppliers, local workers and hospitality businesses. An event’s license enables organizers to offer a range of beverages to attendees, including locally produced wines, craft beers, and spirits, thereby promoting the region’s diverse alcohol industry. If compliant, all kinds of liquor can be sold at an event.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT:
Events play a vital role in fostering community engagement and social interaction. Whether it’s a neighbourhood street fair, a cultural festival, or a charity fundraiser, alcohol can enhance the overall experience for attendees. An events license allows organizers to incorporate alcohol sales or service as part of the event’s offerings, contributing to its success and enjoyment.
TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY:
The Western Cape is renowned for its tourist attractions, including wine routes, music festivals, and culinary events. Obtaining an events license enables organizers to host memorable experiences that attract both local residents and visitors to the region. By showcasing the diverse offerings of the Western Cape’s hospitality industry, events contribute to tourism growth and economic development.
SHORT TERM EVENTS:
The event’s license allows opportunities for those who wish to sell liquor at an event which is for a limited time, to do so. This means that, where an applicant complies with the requirements, liquor can be sold legally.
ALCOHOL HARMS REDUCTION:
The attitude in the Western Cape towards the sale and use of liquor is encompassed in the Alcohol Harms Reduction Policy. This is an important consideration in the regulation of liquor licences.
TYPES OF LICENCES:
The 2008 Act initially only allowed for on-consumption event’s licences, but since the Act has been amended, it now also allows for off-consumption liquor licences and also on and off-consumption licences. This is of particular importance for fairs and expos, to allow people to buy liquor for on and off-consumption purposes at the fair/expo, which is a far more practical approach.
In summary, an event’s license in the Western Cape serves as a vital tool for organizers to legally serve and sell alcohol at temporary gatherings and functions. Beyond ensuring compliance with regulations, it supports public safety, local economy, community engagement and tourism, enriching the cultural fabric of the region.
CRUCIAL MATTERS TO CONSIDER:
An event’s application must be made to the WCLA (Western Cape Liquor Authority) 39 days before the event. If an application is made less than 39 days before an event, it will still be possible to obtain one, but will carry additional costs and penalties.
Contact us timeously for your event’s licence.
FOR MORE INFORMATION IN THE LIQUOR LICENSING INDUSTRY CONTACT THE EXPERTS:
VINCENT BERGH LIQUOR LAW AND BUSINESS CONSULTANTS FOR A FREE CONSULTATION
VINCENT /ANNAMIEN 061 1637491
