It’s still us—just with a fresh new look! The SCDOR launched our redesigned website this week, and we hope you’ll take a look around. Take a virtual tour or read some quick tips!
Are you catering and bartending alcohol at events?
To avoid violations as a caterer or bartender, learn more about ABL Rules and Regulations for Catering & Bartending in South Carolina to ensure you are legally providing alcohol at events.
South Carolina law considers the sale of an alcoholic beverage (beer, wine, and liquor) to have taken place when any of the following occurs at an event that is providing alcoholic beverages:
An unlicensed social function is a noncommercial event, with no admission fee, where alcohol is served and consumed at no charge, and the person hosting the event or function does not have a beer/wine permit or liquor license.
Example:
A wedding reception where beer, wine, or liquor is being consumed is an example of an unlicensed social function. A bartender, caterer, or event hall may NOT provide the beer, wine, or liquor for this type of event to be considered an unlicensed social function.
Phone: 803-898-5864
Email: ABL@dor.sc.gov
Report alcohol-related violations:
South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED)
803-896-5591
MyDORWAY is the fastest, easiest way to apply for a Special Event Permit. Get started by logging in to MyDORWAY, then clicking the More tab. On the next screen, select Apply for a New ABL Special Event License.
You can also apply for a Special Event Permit using paper forms.
The person or entity who is receiving the profits or proceeds from the special event should be the one to apply for a Special Event Permit - even if those profits are only donations or entry fees.
You can only sell alcohol during the hours specified and approved by a Chief of Police or Sheriff on your ABL-100. Note:
The SCDOR processes most Special Event Permits in about 3 business days. Applications must be received at least 24 hours prior to the event due to the SLED email notification requirement. We recommend applying for your Beer & Wine Special Event Permit on MyDORWAY for faster processing. If applying online, you must submit the application at least 72 hours prior to the event.
The person or entity who is receiving the profits or proceeds from the special event should be the one to apply for a Special Event Permit—even if those profits are only donations or entry fees.
You must purchase beer and wine from licensed SC wholesalers. Retailers such as Sam’s Club, Costco, BJ’s Wholesale, and other comparable retail outlets are not licensed SC wholesalers.
Use our ABL License Search tool to find a licensed wholesale beer and wine distributor.
Yes, Special Event Permit holders will be required to obtain either a Retail License or an Admissions Tax License, or both, before applying for their Special Event Permit.
NOTE: Permit holders must obtain an Admissions Tax license even if tickets are only sold online.
Yes, all license holders must be a resident of or registered in South Carolina for 30 days prior to obtaining a Special Event Permit.
No, exemptions will need to be applied for on the state level.
Our FREE ABL Workshops are virtual and cover licensing basics, including applications and renewals, special events, and compliance laws. See class dates and register now >
Planning to host or sell goods and services at an event or festival? Get prepared with our Events & Festivals Guide >
Still haven't created a MyDORWAY account? See the benefits of creating a MyDORWAY account and sign up today >
South Carolina Department of Revenue | Alcohol Beverage Licensing | PO Box 125 | Columbia, SC 29214-0907
