1. Bar Facilities
Coworking spaces offer bar facilities within their premises. This amenity allows users to socialize, unwind, and engage in informal meetings while working. However, it is important to note that the sale and consumption of alcohol are subject to regulation and licensing requirements.
Offence
Any person who intends to sell liquor at any premises for consumption on the premises must obtain a liquor license before the commencement of such business.
Application Process
Here’s what you need to prepare beforehand:
- 2 Recent photographs (35mm x 40mm) of the applicant
- A copy of the applicant’s HKID card
- A copy of the each business registration certificate of the company (if the establishment under application is a limited company)
Follow these steps!
Step 1: Submit application to Liquor License Board
Step 3: Public Opinion and Advertisement
– Place an advertisement in three newspapers (not in the classified advertisement column), in accordance with the requirements and standard format provided by the licensing offices.
– The applicant is responsible for the cost of the advertisement.
– The Liquor Licensing Board will post the notice on application for Liquor/License on its website.
Step 0: Prepare everything of the list above!
Step 2: Attend Interviews
– Applicants may be required to attend an interview to be arranged by the Secretary of the Liquor Licensing Board.
– Purpose: further verify the information provided in the application form and other matters relating to the application.
– All applications are referred to the Hong Kong Police Force and Home Affairs Department for comment.
Specific Considerations Spaces in Commercial / Residential Area
If a coworking space is located in a building that has both commercial and residential areas, or if it is in a residential building, the process of getting a liquor license for that space may be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
The Liquor Licensing Board may impose certain conditions before granting the license. For example, they may restrict the sale, supply, or consumption of alcohol between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM. They may also require the coworking space to have a separate entrance that does not directly lead to the residential parts of the building.
Consequences
What would happen?
Selling liquor without a proper license in an offense in Hong Kong is an offence in Hong Kong.
Offenders may face
- a fine of 1 million HKD
- 2-year imprisonment
If the applicant for the liquour license commits this offence, it may jeopardize the application submitted to the Liquor License Board.
READY?
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