Scroll Top

Legal Compliance for Los Angeles Bars and Breweries

Legal Compliance for Los Angeles Bars and Breweries
Legal Compliance for Los Angeles Bars and Breweries
1
By Pejman Javaheri Beverage Law California Law Food Licensing General Counsel March 1, 2024

In the heart of Los Angeles, bars and breweries form an integral part of the city’s social fabric, offering locales for relaxation and community gathering. However, to ensure these establishments not only survive but thrive, adherence to the city’s complex food and alcohol laws is essential. Legal compliance for Los Angeles bars and breweries can be a complicated concept and this article attempts to provide an overview of some of the necessary steps for legal compliance.

Navigating Alcohol Licensing in Los Angeles:

  • Securing an ABC License: A cornerstone of operating any establishment serving alcohol in Los Angeles is obtaining the appropriate Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) license. The type of license required varies, catering to bars, breweries, restaurants, and distributors, with each category having its own set of specifications and fees.
  • Local Permitting Requirements: Additional permits may be needed for specific operational aspects such as outdoor seating, live entertainment, or hosting special events, which are governed by city or county regulations.
  • License Renewal and Regulatory Compliance: Keeping meticulous records and timely renewing ABC licenses are crucial practices. Compliance with all ABC regulations is non-negotiable to prevent fines or, worse, suspension of the license.

Streamlining Distribution and Sales:

  • Understanding California Craft Beer Laws: For breweries, California’s laws allow self-distribution within the state to a certain extent. It’s imperative to understand these laws thoroughly to ensure compliance.
  • Engaging with Third-Party Distributors: When dealing with distributors, negotiate contracts carefully to secure fair terms for pricing, marketing, and legal rights.
  • Direct-to-Consumer Sales: Breweries have the privilege of selling directly to consumers, whether on-site or online. Familiarizing oneself with the nuances of shipping laws and age verification is key to lawful operation.

Promoting Responsible Service and Reducing Liability:

  • Staff Training: Implementing comprehensive training programs for staff on responsible service, including the proper way to check IDs and handle intoxicated patrons, is mandatory.
  • Managing Service Refusal: Establish clear protocols for refusing service to prevent over-serving and potential liabilities associated with serving intoxicated customers.
  • Understanding Dramshop Laws: Awareness of California’s dramshop laws is vital, as these can implicate establishments in legal issues arising from the actions of intoxicated patrons.

Additional Considerations: Legal Compliance for Los Angeles Bars and Breweries:

  • Food Safety and Sanitation: For those serving food, maintaining high standards of cleanliness and food safety is as critical as alcohol regulation compliance.
  • Adhering to Noise Ordinances: Compliance with local noise ordinances through measures like soundproofing or operational adjustments ensures good neighborhood relations.
  • Mindful Marketing: Ensure all marketing efforts, especially those related to alcohol, comply with ABC guidelines and do not target underage audiences.

Seeking Expert Guidance:

Navigating the food law in Los Angeles landscape can be complex. Leveraging resources such as the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control and consulting with specialized food law attorneys can provide clarity and direction, helping bars and breweries mitigate risks and navigate legal intricacies.

Pejman Javaheri / About Author
Pejman Javaheri, Esq., is the founder of Juris Law Group, P.C., a firm established in 2009 that specializes in Food IP Licensing and related areas of food and beverage law. With a commitment to integrating legal excellence into business strategies, Javaheri leads a firm renowned for its expertise in areas such as Food & Beverage Law, Licensing & Brand Protection, Outside General Counsel, Consumer Products & Manufacturing, Corporate & Business Law, Family Office, and Business Affairs. Pejman Javaheri brings a unique and comprehensive approach to legal services, particularly in the realm of licensing agreements. Under his leadership, the firm has excelled in areas such as Food & Beverage Law, where his team supports a range of clients from agribusinesses to retailers. In Licensing & Brand Protection, Javaheri has led the firm to become a leader in the food and beverage space, expertly handling negotiations, terms sheets, and drafting industry-standard license agreements.

Pejman Javaheri also specializes in Outside General Counsel, providing strategic planning and comprehensive legal advice; Consumer Products & Manufacturing, focusing on compliance and risk management; Corporate & Business Law, offering a streamlined boutique approach; Family Office, delivering personalized counsel; and Business Affairs, where Javaheri's team combines legal acumen with business insight.

His academic foundation in Political Science and Psychology from the University of California, Irvine, combined with a Juris Doctor from UC Hastings College of the Law, set the stage for a career marked by innovation and comprehensive legal solutions.

At Winston & Strawn, LLP, Javaheri refined his skills in corporate, real estate, and finance law. He is celebrated for his role as a strategic business planner and legal expert, earning the title Chief 'Get Sh!t Done' Officer™ for his dynamic, results-oriented approach. His leadership in community involvement is highlighted by his prestigious role on the Los Angeles Trial Lawyers’ Charities (LATLC) Honorary Board of Directors.

Embodying ethics, commitment, professionalism, confidentiality, and creativity, Javaheri's approach is defined by integrity, a client-focused urgency, and a constant drive for innovation. At Juris Law Group, he not only provides legal solutions but also nurtures the growth and success of his clients' businesses and ventures, adapting to their evolving needs.

Food IP licensing offers a unique opportunity for brand expansion and consumer engagement. Juris Law Group’s experience in facilitating diverse licensing agreements, coupled with the growing trend of major brands entering this space, underscores the potential of this sector. If you are considering leveraging your IP in the food and beverage industry, our team at Juris Law Group is equipped to guide you through this journey. Contact our expert food and beverage licensing lawyers today.
More posts by Pejman Javaheri