Liquor License Board

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What We Do

The Board of Liquor License Commissioners is an agency of the State responsible for regulating the sale, storage, and distribution of retail alcoholic beverages in Baltimore City.

Over the years, changing alcohol laws have shaped the industry. The Board enforces those laws and its own regulations in Baltimore. Our mission is to make sure everything is safe when people buy and sell drinks in the city.

We make sure everyone follows the rules and has the proper licenses for selling and serving alcohol. Right now, there are about 1,550 licensed establishments in Baltimore City where you can get a drink.

Updates

Keep up with the latest information from the Liquor License Board

See latest press releases and announcements

2026 Liquor Board Educational and Informational Sessions

Below you will find the 3 different types of classes offered for 2026. Please click the session link to register for the class type you want to join. Classes that are held in person will be located at our offices at 200 St. Paul Place, Suite 2300. We look forward to seeing you!

Monthly Licensee Info Sessions:
These sessions cover basic operations by license type, top violations and how to remain in compliance, and the last half hour is reserved for specific questions. Held on the third Tuesday of every month, except March, from 11:00am to 12:30pm in person at the BLLC Offices. We will also have additional virtual 6pm session in June, September, December.

Renewal Info Sessions:
These sessions help licensees understand and complete the annual renewal process and are held in person at the BLLC Offices.
Monday, March 9, 2026 – 10:00am
Monday, March 23, 2026 – 10:00am

Navigating the Liquor License Process:
NEW for 2026: This session helps prospective licensees know what it takes to get a liquor license! These sessions will be held in person at the BLLC Offices.
Thursday, March 5, 2026 - 1:00pm
Thursday, September 3, 2026 - 1:00pm

See Something, Say Something

If you would like to report what you believe to be a liquor board violation, please call 311 to report the matter or call our offices at 410-396-4377 during normal business hours and speak to Chief Inspector McGinnis. Also, note that a Baltimore City Police Department (BPD) tip line and direct email address has been established for complaints regarding illegal bar activity. You can contact the BPD by calling 1-833-288-7245.

Addiction Service Access: Do you or someone you know struggle with addiction? Call Baltimore’s 24/7 hotline at 410-931-2214 for help getting treatment. For more information about resources to treat addiction and prevent overdose, please visit the Baltimore City Addiction Website.