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FAQs on the new liquor licence regime

  1. What are the changes under the new Liquor Licence Act?
    Liquor licences have been moved from the Magistrates’ Courts to the Department of Commerce and Consumers Affairs (DCCA).
    The manual system has been moved to an online system.
  2. When will these changes take effect?
    April 1, 2022
  3. Which department will be responsible for the issuance of liquor licences?
    Powers of administration and implementation of the system will be vested in a civil Liquor Licence Authority (LLA), under the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.
  4. How can a person apply for a liquor licence?
    Person must now apply online at liquorlicence.gov.bb.
  5. Which classes of licences are to be issued under the Act?
    • An export licence for the exportation of liquor;
    • A wholesale licence for the sale of liquor wholesale;
    • A retail licence for the sale of liquor on a retail basis whether or not the liquor; is in a sealed container;
    • A hotel licence for the sale of liquor at a hotel;
    • A restaurant licence for the sale of liquor at a restaurant;
    • A seasonal licence for the sale of liquor at events occurring within three months;
    • A special occasion licence for the sale of liquor at an event that lasts no longer than 24 hours;
    • An entertainment licence for the sale of liquor at any place of entertainment and
    • A members’ club licence for the sale of liquor at a club to its members, or to any other person.
  6. What will be the duration of the licences?
    Seasonal Licence – 90 days
    Special Occasion Licence – 24 hours
    All other licences – annually, every two or three years, with discounts being offered for years two and three.
  7. How long will it take to get the liquor licence?
    This depends on the type of licence being applied for.
    Seasonal and Special Occasion Licences are to be issued within two days.
    For new Entertainment and Retail Licences the length of time varies. There is a three-day period allotted for the licence to be published for review by the public. After the published period, there is a seven-day timeframe in which the public can make objections. If no objections are lodged, the licence must be issued within five days. If objections are lodged and the determination is in favour of the applicant, the licence shall be issued seven days after the determination. All other classes of licences are to be issued within five days.
  8. What are the payment options for a liquor licence?
    Persons can pay online through Government’s Ezpay system, and at select post offices from mid-April.
  9. Will a paper application form still be accepted?
    Paper applications will no longer be accepted. However, application points will be set up at select post offices and MIST’s digital ambassadors will be available to assist. Persons will also be able to visit the DCCA for assistance.
  10. If there are liquor licence queries, who should be contacted?
    The Licensing Section of the DCCA at 535-7011, 535-7015, 535-7042, 535-7019, or commerce.ca@barbados.gove.bb.
  11. At what age can someone apply for a liquor licence?
    Person 18 years and older can apply.
  12. Can liquor be sold or supplied to a minor, and what are the consequences to the licensee if this happens?
    Persons under the age of 18 must not be sold alcohol. Persons found guilty of this offence may be charged under the Minors Act CAP 215, as this Act carries heavier penalties.
  13. What are the functions of the Liquor Licence Tribunal?
    The Liquor Licence Tribunal has been established to hear appeals and matters related to infringements. Additionally, the Tribunal will be responsible for the imposition of administrative penalties.
  14. How can a person make an objection to a business or individual receiving a liquor licence?
    This process must be completed online for new Retail and Entertainment Licences. Complaints in relation to the other classes of licences can be made by mail, or emailed to the Liquor Licensing Authority.
  15. What if an individual wants or needs to appeal an objection?
    The Liquor Licensing Authority (LLA) has been established to hear appeals and matters related to infringements. Additionally, the tribunal is responsible for the imposition of administrative penalties.
  16. If an individual has inherited a business that has a current licence, does he/she have to apply for a new one or can the individual continue to use the old one?
    A licence cannot be inherited. Under the new Liquor Licence Act, persons desirous of taking charge of an establishment, where the licence holder has died or is no longer able to conduct business, must notify the LLA. Persons are permitted to carry on the business for a period of 30 days.