Michigan Liquor Control Commission Changes Licensing Process

Business Counselor June 20, 2012 Benjamin A. Zainea

The Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) recently effectuated significant reforms designed to simplify, streamline, and shorten the application process relating to liquor licenses.

Beginning April 1, 2012, all license applicants go directly to their local unit of government or local law enforcement agency for approvals, where they are required by law. Formerly, applicants first applied to the MLCC and then waited for the MLCC to submit the necessary approval forms to the local government unit and local police agency. This change effectively eliminated a step in the application process.

Applicants may also submit initial application paperwork to the MLCC at the same time they go directly to their local unit of government for the required approvals if they so choose. However, applicants that apply to the MLCC having all their completed forms – including required local approvals – will be ready for immediate processing and faster review by the Commission.

These changes not only give applicants more control and awareness during the application process, but also simplify the process by greatly reducing the complexity of the required paperwork. There are now only three simplified forms that must be completed by an applicant to initiate the application process with MLCC:

Application for New Licenses, Permits, or Transfer of Ownership or Interest in License;
Local Government Approval Form; and
Police Investigation Recommendation Form.

The implementation of these changes by MLCC was a product of the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs’ overall focus on a “customer driven, business minded” philosophy. The MLCC expects that the changes will have additional benefits to applicants such as shortening waiting times, removing burdens and hurdles, and giving applicants more certainty regarding the application process.

If you need assistance with a liquor license application or have any questions relating to liquor licensing, please contact Ben Zainea or any of our other business counselors.