Liquor Licenses

The City of Mt. Vernon, Illinois, has established regulations regarding the sale of alcoholic liquor within its limits. No one can sell, offer for sale, possess for sale, advertise for sale, or display alcoholic liquor within the city without obtaining a license. To simplify, here are the key points:

1. Type of License: The required license is a retailer's license, allowing the sale of alcoholic liquor at retail on the specified licensed premises.

2. License Duration: The license is valid for up to one year, and it cannot be treated as property, attached, garnished, executed, transferred, or inherited. Licenses expire on April 30, and selling alcoholic liquor without a valid license is not allowed.

3. Inspections: Licensed premises are subject to inspections by the Building Inspector.

4. License Transfer: Licenses cannot be transferred or conveyed through changes in ownership or interest. Any such change terminates the license.

5. Certificate of Occupancy: A valid Certificate of Occupancy for the licensed premises is required before a license is effective. However, a copy of the original license can be provided for certain approved purposes before obtaining this certificate.

6. Construction and Remodeling: Any remodeling, alteration, or construction on licensed premises requires a building permit and compliance with associated requirements.

Please note that these are the simplified key points from the provided text. For additional details and specific requirements, please review the full ordinance .

Refer to the list below to find out what each license costs and a summary of what it allows. If you have any additional questions, please contact the City Clerks Office.

Applying For A Liquor License

New License

The process of applying for a liquor license begins by downloading and submitting a completed application to the City Clerks Office located inside City Hall. Please see the tabs above for downtown sidewalk dining liquor licenses and temporary special event licenses applications. Payment of all fees and the following documentation must also be provided.

• Proof/copy of residence within the city for the individual, each partner if it is a partnership and for the Manager of a corporation.
• Copy of deed or lease that extends at least through the end of the license year for the licensed property.
• If a newly formed corporation, a copy of the Certificate of Incorporation from SOS.
• If an existing corporation, a copy of the Certificate of Good Standing from SOS.
• If the corporation was formed outside of Illinois, a copy of the Certificate authorizing the corporation to do business in Illinois from SOS.
• Proof/copy of Retailer Occupation Tax Number.
• Copy of Certificate of Dram Shop Liability Insurance that extends at least through the end of the license year and for no less than $1,000,000.00.
• For new businesses or remodeled businesses, a copy of the Certificate of Occupancy.

The application is then referred to the Local Liquor Control Commissioner and the Mt. Vernon Liquor Advisory Board if applicable. If the application is approved, a license will be issued. If the application is denied, the permit fee will be returned to you. 

Renewing A License

To renew a liquor license, download and submit a completed renewal application to the City Clerks Office located inside City Hall. Payment of all fees and the following documentation must also be provided.

• Copy of Certificate of Dram Shop Liability Insurance that extends at least through the end of the license year and for no less than $1,000,000.00.
• Resident Manager proof of residency.
• Copy of the Resident Managers Drivers License.
• All documents supporting any changes that were made since the original application.