You Have Questions, We Have Answers!

The Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) takes much pride in keeping bar and restaurant owners up to date with new changes in law, as well as answering any questions that come along the way as a business owner.  Below you will see most recent commonly asked questions from the MLCC.  We know others might have the same questions, as we have had similar questions asked of our Government Relations team as well.

Question: Under what conditions would a transfer applicant be delayed due to the licensee’s tax liability?

Answer: Each year the Michigan Department of Treasury sends the Liquor Control Commission a list of licensees with outstanding tax debt. A hold is placed on the renewal of these licenses and when the licensee tries to renew the license he or she (or the Corporation, Partnership, LLC) is unable to do so until the outstanding debt is paid (or a payment arrangement has been established with the Michigan Department of Treasury.) If a transfer application is received, no action will be taken on that application until the outstanding tax debt issue is resolved and the Department of Treasury clears the objection to renewal based on outstanding tax debt.

Question: What can I do if I am denied a license by the Commission?

Answer: If a license application is denied, the applicant may request an appeal hearing. The request must be made in writing to the Lansing office of the Commission within 20 days from the date of the denial letter which is mailed to the applicant. MLCC mailing address: Michigan Liquor Control Commission, 7150 Harris Drive, P.O. Box 30005, Lansing, Michigan 48909-7505.

Question: Whom do I call to find out who holds a retail liquor license – and what information is available to the public regarding a licensed establishment?

Answer: Contact the Lansing office of the Liquor Control Commission at (866) 813-0011 and ask to be connected to the Records Unit of Licensing. Provide whatever information you have, such as the specific business address of the establishment you are interested in, the names of any individuals or corporations you think may be listed on the license, the last known assumed name of the business (e.g. Joe’s Bar) and the dates in question (current licensee or specific dates in the past). Routine verbal requests for information may include the name a liquor license is issued in (if a corporate entity – names of stockholders); a business address; d.b.a.; types of licenses and permits issued; licensing history of the business; and pending requests (if needed, you may be transferred to the appropriate Licensing Unit for further information regarding the status of a pending request).