Local Objections Due May 2 for June Liquor Permit Renewal Cycle

COLUMBUS, Ohio - With nearly a third of Ohio's roughly 28,000 current liquor permits set to expire on June 1, particularly in the western part of the state, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Liquor Control is highlighting how Ohioans can learn more about the permit renewal process, how they can get involved, and the role that local legislative bodies play in those permits' renewals.

Approximately 9,000 Retail (Class C and D) liquor permits (i.e. bars and restaurants) located in the following 34 counties will expire on June 1, 2025: Adams, Allen, Auglaize, Brown, Butler, Champaign, Clark, Clermont, Clinton, Defiance, Drake, Fayette, Fulton, Greene, Hamilton, Hancock, Hardin, Henry, Highland, Logan, Lucas, Mercer, Miami, Montgomery, Ottawa, Paulding, Preble, Putnam, Sandusky, Shelby, Van Wert, Warren, Williams and Wood.

As part of the renewal process, local legislative authorities have the right to submit an objection to the renewal of a retail liquor permit in their jurisdiction. Since any objections must be postmarked by May 2, 2025, now is the time for individuals and businesses to share potential concerns with their local legislative bodies.

"We value the role of local authorities in upholding responsible liquor practices and encourage their active engagement, including submitting any objections by the deadline," Division Superintendent Jackie DeGenova said. "Together, we can ensure a smooth and effective renewal period for everyone involved."

To help provide additional information on the permit renewal process, the Division created an online Liquor Permit Renewal & Objection Overview guide that answers several commonly asked questions, such as:

• What happens if a permit holder doesn't renew their permit in a timely manner?
• What is the Liquor Control Commission?
• What is the objection process and how does it impact permit renewals?
• Are other state agencies involved with the renewal and objection process?

Liquor permits are valid for one year and must be renewed annually. All retail permits, including Class C (carryout) and Class D (on-premises consumption) have renewal dates that are determined by geographic region. The above counties are located in District 2, which has a permit expiration date of June 1. Permit holders located in District 1, which includes central, northern, southern and eastern Ohio, have an expiration date of Feb. 1. Meanwhile permit holders in District 3, which includes northeast Ohio, have an expiration date of Oct. 1. Click here to view a map that breaks down the counties located in each particular region.

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Paul Kulwinski (kool-WIN-skee), Deputy Superintendent and Director of Licensing, Division of Liquor Control, Ohio Department of Commerce

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