Does Wisconsin Have Temporary Liquor Licenses?

Question: I have a church organization that annually files for a temporary beer/wine license for their church picnic.  They have requested information to be able to sell mixed drinks (alcoholic beverages) during these events.

 

Answer:  Correct – there is no “temporary” distilled spirits license. Likewise, if licensed to sell beer or wine, patrons may not carry their distilled spirits (or any other alcoholic beverages) onto the event premises.

 

• Temporary Class B licenses (often called picnic licenses) allow retail fermented malt beverage and/or wine sales at temporary events like fairs and festivals. Only specified organizations qualify for such a license. Temporary licenses may be issued to:
  1. 1. Bona fide clubs
     2. State, county, or local fair associations or agricultural societies
     3. Churches, lodges, or societies that have been in existence for at least 6 months before the date of application
     4. Posts of veterans organizations
     5. Chambers of commerce or similar civic or trade organizations organized under ch. 181, Wis. Stats

Several other locally-issued licenses or state-issued permits allow the retail sale of alcoholic beverages under certain circumstances. The licenses listed above are the most common, however. (Sec. 125.51(10), Wis. Stats.)