Pima County Liquor License
Get Your Liquor License in Pima County—Without the Headaches
Whether you’re opening a cozy Tucson café or launching the next big nightlife spot in Pima County, getting a liquor license shouldn’t slow you down. At AAA Liquor License Consulting, we know the local laws, recent changes, and all the fine print—so you don’t have to. Our expert consultants make the process fast, easy, and stress-free from start to finish.
Types of Pima County Liquor Licenses and Privileges
If you’re starting a bar, restaurant, liquor store—or even planning a special event—in Pima County, getting the right liquor license is one of the most important steps. The Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control (DLLC) offers several types of liquor licenses in Pima County, each with specific privileges depending on your business type and goals. From on-site wine service to off-site alcohol sales, we’re here to help you understand what’s required, how to apply, and how to get your license approved quickly and correctly.
Here are some of the most common license types available in Pima County through the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control (AZ DLLC):
Liquor License (Bar License)
Allows the sale of all types of alcoholic beverages—beer, wine, and spirits—for both on-site and to-go consumption. This license is transferable and one of the most popular for bars and taverns.
Beer & Wine Bar License
For businesses that want to sell beer and wine for on-site consumption, without serving spirits.
Liquor Store License
Ideal for liquor stores, this license allows the off-site sale of beer, wine, and spirits. It’s also transferable and can be bought through an online auction or private buyer/seller agreement.
Beer & Wine Store License
For convenience or grocery stores looking to sell beer and wine for off-site consumption only.
A temporary permit for nonprofits to serve alcoholic beverages at events in unincorporated Pima County, including the annual Pima County Fair.
Restaurant Licenses
Allows restaurants to sell all liquor types for on-site consumption, provided the business meets the food-to-alcohol sales ratio.
For local producers who want to sell and sample wine and spirits on-site, and possibly distribute products through brokerage or off-site sales.
At AAA Liquor License Consulting, we help ensure every license application is complete, every fee is submitted, and every approval is secured, so your business stays on track. If you’re ready to buy a Pima County liquor license online or need help navigating a code section or extension request, we’ve got your back.
The Right Pima County Liquor License for the Right Business
If you’re planning to sell alcohol in Pima County or throughout the State of Arizona, understanding the basics of liquor licenses is your first step toward legal and successful alcohol service. Whether you’re an applicant starting a new business, a seller looking to transfer a license, or a buyer ready to buy Pima County liquor licenses, we’re here to simplify the process.
From filing paperwork to getting local governing body approval and having your documents sent to the Arizona Department, our team ensures nothing falls through the cracks. Here are the three main categories of license types:
On-Sale Liquor Licenses
These allow the licensee to serve alcohol for on-site consumption at a specific premise—like bars, restaurants, and tasting rooms. Examples include the popular AZ Series 6 liquor license and Series 12 (restaurant) license.
Off-Sale Liquor Licenses
Designed for liquor stores, convenience stores, and grocers, these allow alcohol sales for customers to take home. The process includes a recommendation from the local governing body.
Special & Temporary Licenses and Permits
For businesses and events in unincorporated areas, you may need a temporary or permanent extension of premises or a special event license. These are common for festivals, nonprofit events, and one-time gatherings.
Still unsure which license you need or how to begin? That’s exactly what we’re here for. At AAA Liquor License Consulting, we’ll help you navigate every step to get licenses quickly and correctly, without the stress.
Pima County Liquor License Prices
Navigating the costs of getting a liquor license in Pima County can feel overwhelming—but we’re here to make it simple. The DLLC handles the issuance of all liquor licenses in Arizona, and each license type comes with its own fees. On top of state fees, businesses in Pima County may also need to account for local filing requirements, additional permits, and governing body approvals. Here’s a quick look at the most common liquor licenses in Pima County and what you can expect to pay:
Series 6 (Bar License)
This license is quota-based and transferable.
The Fair Market Value
Around $85,000 to $130,000.
The DLLC Issuance Fee
$1,650
Series 7 (Beer & Wine Bar License)
This license is also transferable and often used for casual eateries and bars.
Fair Market Value
Around $17,500 to $45,000
DLLC Issuance Fee
$1,575
Series 9 (Liquor Store License)
It is also quota-based and can be sold or transferred.
Fair Market Value
$198,900+
DLLC Issuance Fee
$1,750
Series 10 (Beer & Wine Store License)
DLLC Annual Fee: $1,550
Series 12 (Restaurant License)
This non-quota license allows full liquor service at restaurants, as long as food sales remain the primary revenue source.
DLLC Issuance Fee
$2,000
Liquor license prices in Pima County can vary based on market demand, license availability, and your business goals. Our experienced consultants will help you understand your options, guide you through the filing and approval process, and make sure all required fees are submitted correctly. From application to issuance, we’re here to help you get licensed—without the stress.
No Guesswork, No Headaches—Just Results with AAA Liquor License Consulting
At AAA Liquor License Consulting, we take the guesswork out of buying, selling, or transferring liquor licenses and permits in Pima County and throughout Arizona. Whether you need help identifying the right license type or filing paperwork with the Clerk of the Board’s Office—we’ve got you covered. Our hands-on approach, combined with strong relationships at the local and state levels, means faster approvals, fewer delays, and total peace of mind.
Here’s how we make the process easy:
Initial Consultation & Needs Assessment
We start by learning about your business goals and reviewing your proposed location. Then we help determine which license type best fits your needs—from restaurant to bar to retail.
Eligibility & Compliance Review
Our team assesses your eligibility based on financial stability, location zoning, and compliance history. We also review any additional permits that may be needed from the local agencies.
Strategy & Paperwork Prep
We build a personalized licensing strategy, gather all required documents, and ensure everything that must be submitted is complete, accurate, and ready to move through the process smoothly.
Submit Application & Secure Permits
Whether you're applying for a license or making a location change, we handle all filings—submitting your application to the Clerk of the Board’s Office, the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control, and securing any local land use approvals (LLA) or city permits.
Monitor, Manage & Follow Up
We stay in close contact with the agencies reviewing your application, monitor for any regulatory updates, and make adjustments to keep your licensing on track.
License Issuance & Ongoing Support
Once your license is issued, we continue supporting your business with renewal reminders, compliance check-ins, and help navigating any future changes to liquor licenses and permits.
Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or launching a new business that serves liquor as well as wine or beer, we make the entire process smooth, compliant, and hassle-free—from start to finish.
Let AAA Liquor License Consulting Handle Your Pima County Liquor License—So You Can Focus on Your Business
Whether you’re applying for a brand-new license, transferring ownership, or securing permits and approvals, we take care of it all. With deep knowledge of all license types, strong relationships with local agencies, and a team that monitors every change in regulation, AAA Liquor License Consulting makes sure every detail is handled. From start to finish, we guide you through the process so everything that must be submitted is accurate, on time, and in full compliance. Let us help you get licensed—quickly, confidently, and stress-free. Get in touch today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or transfer an alcohol license, having the right information is crucial to ensure a smooth process. Below, you’ll find answers to common questions about liquor licenses, helping you make informed decisions for your business.
Great question! If the license is a Series 6 or Series 9 (both transferable), yes—you can. But you’ll still need to go through a transfer application process, get local governing body approval, and meet all state requirements. We’ll handle the details so nothing gets missed.
Yes, absolutely. If you’re modifying your service area—adding a patio, expanding your bar, or redesigning your layout—you’ll likely need to file a permanent extension of premises application. These must be approved by local agencies and then sent to the Arizona Department for final review. We’ll make sure your modifications are properly permitted so you stay compliant.
Timelines can vary, but most licenses take 90–120 days from start to finish. That includes time for filing, public posting, and local governing body review (especially if it’s on the board of supervisors meeting agenda). We help speed things up by making sure everything is submitted correctly the first time.
You’ll need a special event liquor license, especially if it’s in unincorporated Pima County. These are typically for non-profits or one-time fundraisers and must be processed through the clerk. If you’re a business owner, we can help you explore whether a temporary extension or additional permit might be better for your needs.
For a wine bar, a Series 7 license might be all you need—it allows the sale of beer and wine for on- and off-site consumption. It’s less expensive than a Series 6 and perfect for spots that don’t serve spirits. We’ll help you compare license types and choose what works best for your business.
Secure Your Liquor License Today
Book a consultation with our experts to get a tailored plan for your liquor licensing needs.