It is the policy of the State of Maryland that it is necessary to regulate and control the storage, sale and distribution of alcohol beverages. Maryland State Law, as written in the Alcoholic Beverages (AB) Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, empowers local boards of license commissioners and inspectors to administer and enforce the provisions of these alcohol laws. The restrictions, regulations, provisions, and penalties contained in these laws are for the protection, health, welfare and safety of the people of Harford County and this State; and are carried out in Harford County by the Harford County Liquor Control Board.

Licensing

All alcoholic beverages that are sold in the State of Maryland, including Harford County, must be sold by person(s) who hold an alcoholic beverage license. There are numerous types of alcoholic beverage licenses, ranging from per diem (one day) licenses to licenses for the sale of alcohol (both on and off premises) 7 days a week/365 days a year. Licenses are issued to clubs, restaurants, taverns, liquor stores, hotels, caterers and stadiums. Fees for licenses range from $15 to $10,000 per year.

Obtaining a License to Sell Alcohol

For information regarding the process to apply for an alcoholic beverage license in Harford County, please review the   How to Apply brochure available on this website. 

Please note that the process takes approximately eight (8) weeks from the time an application packet (complete and in order) is filed with the Board Office.

Fillable Application forms are available on this website (on the License Applications tab).

Please contact the Board Office at 410-638-3028 with any questions.

Deadline for Submission of New or Transfer License Applications

The deadline for submission of applications for new, transfer, or change of officers, location, or license class is January 15, 2026.  All applications to be processed for issuance in February, March, and April must be filed with the Board office on or before January 15, 2026.

All applications received after January 15, 2026, will not be processed until after May 1, 2026.

CLICK HERE for dates, fees, and other pertinent information related to Renewal processing.  Renewal applications will be available on this website beginning February 2, 2026.

Please contact the Board Office with any questions.