Supporting documents for a new alcohol licence application

These documents show that your premises are safe, you are suitable to hold a licence and you've given thought to how to run a licensed premises responsibly.

You must provide copies of all the required documents with your application – if you don't, your application can be delayed or rejected.

Documents required for all licence types

These documents are required when you're applying for an on-licence, off-licence or club licence.

Scale plan of the premises

A scale plan (drawing) shows how your premises meets the requirements for serving and supplying alcohol safely.

Map showing the premises location

The map helps the licensing inspector find your premises, especially if it's in a building with multiple businesses or a part of town with confusing street numbering.

Photo or artist's impression of the outside of the premises

A photo or artist's impression of the outside of the premises helps the licensing inspector find your premises when they visit.

Town planning certificate

A town planning certificate proves your premises meets the requirements of the Resource Management Act – it shows that you either have resource consent, or you don't need it.

Building certificate

A building certificate shows that your premises meets the requirements of the NZ Building Code.

Record of title

A record of title (previously called a certificate of title) proves who owns a piece of land and shows any rights and restrictions that apply to it.

Written consent from the building or conveyance owner (if required)

We require a written statement from the owner (and body corporate, if there is one) of the building or conveyance, giving you approval to sell or supply alcohol during the days and hours you're applying for.

Signed lease agreement

If you're leasing your premises, include a signed copy of your lease agreement.

Manager certificates

You need to include in your application the names of duty managers you intend to employ once your licence is granted.

Host responsibility policy

Host responsibility means creating a responsible drinking environment and looking out for your customers while they are on your premises.

Security plan

A safe environment is positive for your customers. It reduces the chance of damage and incidents – as well as the need for Police or Council intervention if there is an incident.

Staff training plan

A training plan provides staff with clear roles and responsibilities and helps them follow your host responsibility policy.

Crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) site assessment

When the licensing inspector looks at your application, they will consider the design and layout of the premises. Good design can significantly reduce the likelihood of disorder or criminal activities.

Building evacuation scheme declaration

A building evacuation scheme declaration is included in the application form. You'll need to ask the owner of your building which category applies.

Public notice

After you've submitted your application, you must post a notice to let the public know that you're intending to sell alcohol at your business. A public notice template is included in the application form.

Notify the public of your alcohol licence application

Extra documents required for an on-licence

Certificate of Incorporation or partnership agreement (if applicable)

Include a copy of either your Certificate of Incorporation or your partnership agreement. You can get a copy of your Certificate of Incorporation from the Companies Register.

Companies Register – New Zealand Companies Office

Menus and drinks lists

Provide current or draft menus showing food, alcohol, low-alcohol (1.15% to 2.5%) and non-alcoholic beverages.

Noise management plan

Under the law, when licensing inspectors assess your application they must consider how your business will affect your community. This includes the effect of any noise created by your business.

Outdoor management plan (if applicable)

If your premises will have an outdoor area where customers can drink alcohol, include an outdoor management plan that shows how you'll manage health and safety in this area.

Extra documents required for an off-licence

Certificate of Incorporation or partnership agreement (if applicable)

Include a copy of either your Certificate of Incorporation or your partnership agreement. You can get a copy of your Certificate of Incorporation from the Companies Register.

Companies Register – New Zealand Companies Office

Statement of annual sales revenue (grocery stores only)

You need to include a statement of annual sales revenue or projected sales revenue verified by a chartered accountant.

Extra documents required for a club licence

Certificate of Incorporation (if applicable)

You can get a copy of your Certificate of Incorporation from the Companies Register.

Companies Register - New Zealand Companies Office

Club charter (if applicable)

Provide a copy of your club charter.

Club rules or constitution

Provide a copy of your club rules or constitution.

Clubs with which your club has reciprocal visiting rights

Provide a list of other clubs or organisations with which your club has reciprocal visiting rights for members.

A schedule of your club's activities

Include the days and hours during which the premises is used for club activities. Sports clubs should include playing and training schedules.

Menus and drinks lists

Provide current or draft menus showing food, alcohol, low-alcohol (1.15% to 2.5%) and non-alcoholic beverages.

Outdoor management plan (if applicable)

If your premises will have an outdoor area where customers can drink alcohol, include an outdoor management plan that shows how you'll manage health and safety in this area.

Noise management plan

Under the law, when licensing inspectors assess your application they must consider how your business will affect your community. This includes the effect of any noise created by your business.

Need help?

You can meet with an alcohol licensing inspector for free. They're available Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.

Alcohol Licensing
Phone: 04 801 3760
Email: AlcoholApplications@wcc.govt.nz

Meet with an alcohol licensing inspector