How to Get an Alcohol License for Restaurant in Austria?
Opening a restaurant in Austria is an exciting venture, especially if you’re planning to serve wine, beer, or spirits alongside your menu. But before you pour that first glass, there’s a critical legal step you need to take — obtaining the proper alcohol license. Austria has a well-regulated hospitality industry, and navigating the licensing process isn’t just about filling out a form; it’s about ensuring your business complies with national, state, and local laws.
Whether you’re starting a cozy wine bistro in Vienna, a lakeside tavern in Salzburg, or a modern brunch spot in Graz, the alcohol license you choose — and how you apply for it — will have a direct impact on your operations, timelines, and even your ability to open on schedule.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know as a restaurant owner, from the types of licenses available to the real costs, compliance rules, and insider tips that can save you time and money. Let’s make sure you’re fully prepared to serve legally — and confidently — from day one.
Do Restaurants in Austria Need an Alcohol License?
Austria’s hospitality sector is tightly regulated, and serving alcohol isn’t something you can do without proper legal authorization. However, not every restaurant or food business needs a standalone alcohol license — it all depends on what, how, and where you plan to serve. Below, we break down the key factors that determine your licensing needs.
Serving vs. Selling Alcohol — Know the Legal Difference
Austria distinguishes between serving alcohol (e.g., in a restaurant or bar setting) and selling alcohol for takeaway (like in retail). Restaurants primarily fall under the “serving” category, but some hybrid businesses need both permissions.
- Serving alcohol means it’s consumed on the premises — this requires a Schanklizenz or serving rights under your hospitality trade license.
- Selling sealed bottles or cans for off-site consumption (like a bottle shop inside a restaurant) may require additional retail permissions.
Understanding which category your concept falls under will guide the type of license you need and how you apply.
When You Do Not Need a Separate License
In Austria, if you operate under a Gastgewerbeberechtigung (hospitality trade license), and alcohol is only a secondary part of your offering (e.g., wine with meals), you may not need a distinct alcohol license.
You may not need a separate alcohol license if:
- Alcohol is only served in conjunction with meals.
- You do not operate a standalone bar.
- You’re not hosting events or parties where alcohol is a primary draw.
However, even in these cases, you still need to declare your intent to serve alcohol during the trade license registration.
Types of Establishments That Require Licensing
Some types of hospitality businesses automatically trigger stricter alcohol licensing requirements, especially if alcohol is a major component of the concept.
Common businesses that require specific alcohol permissions:
- Full-service restaurants with a dedicated bar area
- Bars and pubs that serve alcohol without meals
- Nightclubs or entertainment venues
- Event catering services that serve alcohol off-site
- Food trucks or pop-ups at festivals where alcohol is served
The more prominent the alcohol service, the more likely it is that you’ll need to go through additional licensing steps.
Common Scenarios for Restaurant Owners
To help clarify when alcohol licensing is required, here are a few realistic scenarios restaurant owners in Austria face:
- You’re opening a sit-down restaurant in Vienna with table service and want to offer beer and wine: ✔ You’ll need to register for a hospitality trade license with serving rights.
- You’re running a small café in Graz and want to offer occasional prosecco at brunch: ✔ A basic extension of your Gastgewerbe may be enough.
- You’re launching a burger joint that also sells craft beers in bottles for takeaway: ✔ You’ll need both serving rights and potentially a retail trade license.
- You’re organizing private dinner events with wine pairings in different locations: ✔ You’ll likely need event-based serving permits.
Each of these setups falls under different parts of Austria’s licensing laws — knowing where yours fits saves time and legal headaches.
Types of Alcohol Licenses Available in Austria
Austria doesn’t issue a one-size-fits-all alcohol license. Instead, the right to serve or sell alcohol is tied to your business type, how alcohol is integrated into your concept, and whether the drinks are consumed on-site or sold for takeaway. Let’s break down the main licensing types and what each one covers — so you don’t over- or under-license your business.
Schanklizenz (Serving License)
The Schanklizenz allows you to serve alcoholic beverages on your premises — such as beer, wine, and spirits — for immediate consumption.
Key points:
- It’s typically part of your Gastgewerbeberechtigung (hospitality trade license), not a separate license.
- Required if alcohol is more than just an accompaniment to food — for example, if you have a bar counter or operate extended hours focused on drinks.
- Applies to restaurants, cafés, bars, inns, and taverns.
If you plan to let guests enjoy drinks with or without meals in your establishment, this is the core permission you need.
Gastgewerbeberechtigung (Hospitality Trade License)
This is the foundational license for operating a restaurant, and it can include serving alcohol if declared during registration.
It allows:
- Preparation and sale of food and beverages (including alcohol)
- Service on-site (in-house consumption only)
- Basic alcohol service as a secondary function (e.g., wine served with dinner)
You must explicitly declare alcohol service in your application — otherwise, you could face compliance issues even if it’s part of the broader hospitality permit.
Wholesale vs. Retail Licenses (For Special Cases)
If you plan to sell alcohol in bottles or kegs for off-site consumption — in addition to running a restaurant — you may need to register under one of these commercial trade categories:
- Einzelhandel mit Alkohol (Retail alcohol trade): Needed if you’re selling sealed alcohol for takeaway.
- Großhandel mit Alkohol (Wholesale alcohol trade): For businesses that distribute to other commercial buyers.
These are not common for standard restaurant models but are necessary if you’re expanding into hybrid operations like restaurant + bottle shop concepts.
Alcohol With Entertainment or Outdoor Seating — Additional Permissions
If your alcohol service is part of a larger event or entertainment offering, or if you want to serve outside (e.g., on a terrace), you may need additional approvals beyond your core trade license.
Examples:
- Live music or dancing: May trigger extra review due to noise or zoning laws.
- Schanigarten (sidewalk seating): Often needs separate approval from your local municipality.
- Serving at street food events or markets: Usually requires a temporary alcohol serving permit.
These permissions vary by state (Bundesland) and municipality, so always check with your local Bezirkshauptmannschaft or Magistrat.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a License
Getting licensed to serve alcohol in Austria isn’t overly complicated, but it does require careful attention to local regulations and paperwork. The exact process can vary slightly depending on your province (Bundesland) and the type of venue you’re opening. This section outlines the typical steps restaurant owners follow to get legally permitted to serve alcohol on their premises.
Where to Start — Your Local Bezirkshauptmannschaft or Magistrat
All alcohol licensing in Austria is handled at the local level — either by the Bezirkshauptmannschaft (District Authority) or Magistrat (City Authority) if you’re in a statutory city.
Here’s how to begin:
- Find your responsible authority based on the address of your restaurant.
- Visit or contact their Gewerbeamt (trade office).
- Many cities now allow partial online submission through the USP.gv.at portal, Austria’s central business service website.
It’s crucial to work with your local authority early in the process — especially before signing a long-term lease or investing in renovations.
Required Documentation and Proofs
Expect to submit a variety of documents as part of your application. These help prove you meet the legal and practical standards for alcohol service.
Typical documentation includes:
- Proof of identity (passport or national ID)
- Business registration certificate (Gewerbeanmeldung)
- Lease or property ownership documents for your premises
- Detailed floor plan of the venue (for fire and safety checks)
- Operating concept or business plan (if requested)
- Certificate of good conduct (Strafregisterbescheinigung)
- Evidence of qualifications, such as a certificate of trade competence (Gastgewerbebefähigungsnachweis) — unless exempt
Having these documents organized before your appointment can significantly reduce processing delays.
Online vs. In-Person Submissions
Austria’s digital government services are improving, but not all municipalities accept fully online submissions yet.
Here’s what you should know:
- Major cities like Vienna and Graz may allow online pre-submission via USP or city portals.
- However, many authorities still require an in-person meeting or submission of original documents by post.
- Some applications involve site inspections, which must be scheduled directly with your case officer.
Always confirm your local authority’s process before assuming an online application will be enough.
Tips for a Smoother Approval Process
Many restaurant owners experience unnecessary delays due to avoidable mistakes. Here’s how to stay ahead:
- Speak with the licensing office early. They can advise on site-specific requirements.
- Use a local architect or consultant to prepare accurate floor plans and layouts.
- Ensure the property is properly zoned for alcohol-serving hospitality.
- Don’t wait until you’ve hired staff or stocked your bar — the license must be in place before service begins.
- Keep copies of all submissions and ask for written confirmation of receipt.
Planning ahead and being proactive with local authorities can help you get your license faster and avoid last-minute surprises.
Business Registration and Trade Licensing Essentials
Before you can legally serve alcohol — or even operate a restaurant — in Austria, you need to establish your business properly. The alcohol serving rights are not granted in isolation; they’re embedded within your broader Gastgewerbeberechtigung (hospitality trade license). This section outlines what you need to know about business registration and licensing — because if you get this wrong, your alcohol license may be denied or revoked later.
Gewerbeanmeldung – Your Trade License Comes First
Every restaurant in Austria must register a Gewerbe (trade) before opening. This is done through the Gewerbeanmeldung process.
Key points:
- Registration is completed at your local District Authority (Bezirkshauptmannschaft or Magistrat).
- Most restaurants register under the regulated trade of Gastgewerbe (hospitality).
- You’ll need to declare whether you plan to serve alcohol, and whether your venue includes a bar area, terrace, or entertainment services.
Without this license, you cannot operate legally — even if you have a space, staff, and menu ready to go.
Choosing the Right Legal Entity
The legal structure of your business affects everything from your tax obligations to liability and access to public funding.
Common legal structures for restaurant owners in Austria:
- Einzelunternehmen (sole proprietorship): Fastest and simplest to set up; ideal for small or owner-operated restaurants.
- Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung (GmbH): Offers liability protection; more complex setup and higher capital requirement (€35,000, half of which must be paid in cash).
- Offene Gesellschaft (OG) or Kommanditgesellschaft (KG): Partnership structures, often used for family-owned or co-managed venues.
Each structure has different documentation requirements for trade registration, so make this decision first.
Licensing Categories for Gastronomy Businesses
Austria’s trade law defines specific subcategories under the general Gastgewerbe license. You must choose the one that fits your model:
- Operating a restaurant or café
- Running a bar or pub
- Serving food and drink in a mobile format (food truck)
- Catering and delivery services
- Operating a guesthouse with meals and drinks
If alcohol is part of your offering, your registration must clearly state this — especially if drinks are served without meals, or during entertainment or late hours.
Coordination with Local Chamber of Commerce (WKO)
The Wirtschaftskammer Österreich (WKO) supports business owners in navigating trade law, licensing, and compliance.
Here’s how they help:
- Offer free consultations to help determine which trade license fits your business.
- Provide access to model business plans and financial planning templates.
- Help with required training or obtaining your Gastgewerbebefähigung (trade qualification).
You can find regional offices and gastronomy-specific advice on their official site:
🔗 WKO
Engaging with the WKO early is highly recommended — they often spot issues before the authorities do.
Zoning, Safety, and Health Compliance
Even if you’ve secured the right trade license and filed the paperwork, you won’t get permission to serve alcohol — or open your restaurant — unless your physical premises meet Austria’s zoning, safety, and hygiene standards. These rules ensure your establishment is appropriate for its location and safe for guests and staff. This section covers what restaurant owners must do to stay compliant and avoid delays in licensing.
Zoning Permissions and Land Use Approval
Before serving alcohol, your location must be zoned appropriately for hospitality and alcohol service. Zoning decisions are made at the municipal level, and each Bundesland (province) has its own specific requirements.
Things to check:
- Is your venue located in a commercial or mixed-use area?
- Are there restrictions on operating hours or noise?
- Does your building permit allow for gastronomic use?
If your restaurant is near schools, churches, or residential areas, special conditions or limits on alcohol service may apply.
Tip: Work with a local planner or architect to confirm zoning before you sign a lease or renovate.
Fire Safety and Escape Routes
Fire safety is one of the most closely inspected aspects of any alcohol-serving venue. Authorities won’t approve your license without documented compliance.
You’ll need to:
- Submit floor plans showing emergency exits and escape routes.
- Install fire extinguishers and smoke detectors as required by code.
- Conduct a fire inspection, often by the Feuerwehr (fire brigade) or building authority.
- Ensure unobstructed exits at all times — a major red flag during inspections.
Larger venues (especially those with more than 75 guests or late-night hours) may require more intensive checks and systems.
Hygiene and Kitchen Standards
Serving food and alcohol together means you’re subject to Austria’s Lebensmittelhygieneverordnung (Food Hygiene Regulation).
Key hygiene requirements:
- Surfaces and storage must comply with HACCP standards.
- You must have separate handwashing sinks for staff and guests.
- Proper ventilation, refrigeration, and dishwashing systems are required.
- Pest control plans and waste disposal procedures must be documented.
Authorities will inspect your kitchen and bar areas before granting final approval. Regular inspections will continue after opening.
Smoking Regulations and Alcohol Serving Areas
Austria enforces a strict smoke-free law in hospitality venues. Smoking is completely prohibited indoors, including in bars and restaurants.
Important points:
- You cannot serve alcohol in any enclosed smoking area.
- Outdoor seating (e.g., Schanigärten) may allow smoking, but clear signage and separation are required.
- You’ll need to submit layout plans showing designated service zones, including any outdoor areas.
Violating smoking laws can lead to fines, customer complaints, or — in severe cases — the loss of your alcohol serving rights.
How Long Does It Take to Get Licensed?
Getting an alcohol license in Austria doesn’t happen overnight — but with proper preparation, it doesn’t have to drag on either. The timeline largely depends on your location, the completeness of your application, and whether your premises are already compliant. This section outlines what to expect, how long each phase typically takes, and how to avoid unnecessary delays.
Typical Approval Timelines by Region
While the licensing process is standardized across Austria, the actual pace varies by Bundesland and municipality.
Average processing times:
- Smaller towns and rural areas: 2 to 4 weeks
- Mid-sized cities (e.g., Linz, Graz): 3 to 6 weeks
- Vienna and larger urban areas: 6 to 10 weeks or longer, especially if site inspections are backlogged
Keep in mind:
- Peak application periods (before summer or holidays) can increase wait times.
- Incomplete paperwork or unclear floor plans are the most common reasons for delays.
Factors That Slow Things Down
To stay on schedule, you need to anticipate the common bottlenecks in the licensing process.
Things that often cause delays:
- Missing or incomplete documentation
- Zoning disputes or unclear land use permissions
- Outdated or inaccurate floor plans
- Waiting on fire safety or health inspections
- Changes to your operating model after submitting your application
Local authorities are strict about documentation, so even small inconsistencies (like an unapproved outdoor seating plan) can restart the clock.
Provisional Operation While You Wait?
In some municipalities, you may be allowed to begin operating under a provisional approval while your full license is processed — but this is not guaranteed.
What to know:
- A provisional license may come with restrictions, such as limited operating hours or a ban on alcohol until final approval.
- You’ll likely need to provide a written justification for urgency.
- Always get written confirmation if any provisional permissions are granted.
Operating without permission — even temporarily — can result in fines or rejection of your application.
Renewals and Validity Periods
The good news: most alcohol serving rights tied to your Gastgewerbeberechtigung do not expire unless your business changes significantly.
However:
- Major changes (e.g., adding a bar, expanding seating, changing ownership) may require modification of your existing license.
- Some temporary or event-based licenses do expire and must be re-applied for each time.
It’s wise to review your license annually to ensure it still covers your current operations.
What Does It Cost to Get an Alcohol License?
Serving alcohol in your Austrian restaurant isn’t just a legal matter — it’s a financial one too. While the alcohol license itself is often bundled within your Gastgewerbeberechtigung (hospitality trade license), there are multiple cost layers involved: application fees, compliance costs, inspections, and long-term expenses. This section breaks down what you’ll realistically spend to become (and stay) compliant.
Application and Administration Fees
The government fees for registering your hospitality business and applying for alcohol service rights are generally modest — but they vary by region.
Typical cost range:
- €40 to €130 for the Gewerbeanmeldung (trade registration)
- €30 to €100 for processing the alcohol service addition
- Some municipalities charge extra fees for inspections or site reviews
These are usually one-time costs, payable at the time of application. Be sure to get a receipt and confirmation for your records.
Possible Inspection or Consultant Costs
Depending on your building type and menu concept, you may need to bring in experts or meet specific inspection standards before approval.
Possible additional costs:
- Architect or technician for layout plans: €300–€1,200
- Fire safety inspection (if not covered publicly): €100–€400
- Hygiene consultation or equipment upgrades: varies significantly
- Translation services (if you’re a non-German speaker): €50–€300
While not mandatory for everyone, these expenses can quickly add up — especially if you’re converting a non-hospitality space into a functioning restaurant.
Costs for Modifying Premises
If your location doesn’t already meet Austria’s strict hospitality and alcohol-serving standards, you may need to invest in renovations or upgrades.
Common upgrades include:
- Creating an extra emergency exit
- Installing a fire alarm system
- Upgrading kitchen equipment to HACCP standards
- Adding signage, lighting, or soundproofing for zoning compliance
These costs are highly variable, but in many cases, €5,000 to €20,000+ may be needed, especially in older or non-commercial buildings.
Budgeting for Annual Renewals or Expansions
While most alcohol-serving rights under a standard restaurant license don’t expire annually, you may face costs down the line when:
- Expanding your floor plan or outdoor seating
- Adding a bar or dance area
- Changing ownership or legal entity
- Applying for seasonal or event-based alcohol permits
Budget at least €100 to €300 annually for administrative changes or small expansions, and more if you’re regularly hosting events.
Summary Table of Estimated Costs
| Cost Item | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Trade Registration (Gewerbeanmeldung) | €40 – €130 |
| Alcohol License Addition | €30 – €100 |
| Architect / Floor Plan Drafting | €300 – €1,200 |
| Fire/Hygiene Inspections (if external) | €100 – €400 |
| Renovation or Compliance Upgrades | €5,000 – €20,000+ |
| Annual Administrative Adjustments | €100 – €300/year |
Ongoing Responsibilities After Licensing
Once you’ve secured your alcohol license in Austria, the work doesn’t stop there. Holding the license comes with clear legal obligations — from responsible service practices to regular recordkeeping and staff compliance. Austrian authorities conduct periodic checks, and failure to meet ongoing requirements can result in fines, temporary suspension, or even revocation of your license.
Here’s what you need to manage after your license is approved to stay fully compliant.
Recordkeeping and Tax Reporting
Restaurant owners are expected to maintain clear and accurate financial records — especially regarding alcohol sales.
Key requirements include:
- Separate tracking of alcohol and food sales (for VAT purposes)
- Accurate inventory control to prevent loss or abuse
- Timely and full VAT declaration (currently 20% for alcoholic beverages)
- Retention of invoices, purchase orders, and delivery notes for 7 years
Failure to report alcohol sales correctly can trigger audits or tax penalties. Consider using a digital POS system that separates food and alcohol categories for easier reporting.
Staff Training on Responsible Serving
Your team must understand and follow Austria’s rules around responsible alcohol service. This isn’t optional — it’s a legal and social responsibility.
Staff should be trained on:
- Age verification: Alcohol cannot be served to anyone under 16 (beer/wine) or under 18 (spirits/mixed drinks).
- Refusing service to intoxicated guests or those posing safety risks.
- Understanding liability: You may be held accountable for incidents linked to over-serving or improper conduct.
Many restaurant owners include this training in onboarding procedures and reinforce it through signage and internal policies.
Age Checks and ID Verification
Austria enforces strict age-related laws around alcohol sales. Your staff must consistently verify the age of guests, especially when serving stronger beverages.
Best practices include:
- Posting visible signs near the entrance or bar area stating age limits
- Training staff to request photo ID (passport, national ID, driver’s license)
- Keeping a refusal logbook (optional but recommended) to document cases where alcohol service was denied
If minors are served — even by mistake — you risk immediate fines and a potential loss of your license.
Alcohol Advertising Restrictions in Austria
There are legal limits on how restaurants can advertise alcohol, particularly when targeting the public or promoting to youth.
You cannot:
- Use alcohol advertising that targets minors
- Promote excessive or binge drinking
- Place alcohol ads near schools, playgrounds, or youth centers
- Offer happy hours that encourage irresponsible consumption (depending on local regulations)
Make sure all alcohol promotions — both online and on-site — comply with national and local advertising laws. When in doubt, consult your WKO regional office.
What Happens If You Don’t Comply?
Austria takes alcohol regulation seriously — and non-compliance isn’t something restaurant owners can afford to overlook. Whether it’s serving alcohol without a license, failing to check a guest’s age, or operating outside your permitted hours, violations can result in immediate and costly consequences. In some cases, they can even threaten the future of your business.
This section outlines what happens when things go wrong, and how to stay on the safe side of Austrian licensing law.
Fines, Suspensions, and License Revocation
If you break the rules, Austrian authorities can issue administrative fines, suspend your alcohol rights, or cancel your entire hospitality license.
Common penalties include:
- Fines from €200 to €3,600 depending on the severity of the offense
- Temporary suspension of your alcohol service rights (weeks or months)
- Permanent revocation of your Gastgewerbeberechtigung in serious or repeated cases
- Loss of reputation, which can affect your relationship with landlords, suppliers, or insurers
Fines are issued by the Bezirkshauptmannschaft or Magistrat, and some violations (like endangering minors) may lead to criminal charges.
How Random Inspections Are Conducted
Restaurants and bars in Austria are subject to unannounced inspections by local authorities, often involving:
- Trade inspectors (Gewerbebehörde)
- Health inspectors (Lebensmittelaufsicht)
- Police or youth protection officers (Jugendschutz)
They check for:
- Visible licenses and signage
- Hygiene and safety standards
- Alcohol inventory control
- Proper age verification practices
- Compliance with smoking laws
These inspections can happen at any time, especially on weekends or evenings when alcohol consumption is high.
What to Do If You’re Reported by a Customer or Neighbor
Sometimes, violations are brought to the attention of authorities through public complaints — especially in urban areas where residents are sensitive to noise, crowding, or underage drinking.
Here’s how to handle it:
- Take all complaints seriously, even if you think they’re exaggerated.
- Document your version of events — staff logs, CCTV, or receipts.
- Cooperate fully if contacted by authorities.
- If necessary, hire a legal advisor or WKO consultant to help respond.
Even a single complaint can trigger a formal investigation — so don’t assume that a private issue won’t become a public one.
Can Foreigners or Expats Apply for a License?
Yes — foreigners and expats can legally apply for an alcohol license in Austria. In fact, many successful restaurants across Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck are run by international owners. However, there are specific conditions and extra steps non-Austrian entrepreneurs need to follow to secure their Gastgewerbeberechtigung and alcohol serving rights. If you’re coming from outside the EU, the process can take longer and require more documentation.
Residency and EU Citizenship Considerations
Your citizenship and residency status will affect your licensing pathway.
Here’s what you need to know:
- EU/EEA and Swiss citizens: Can freely establish a business in Austria with minimal barriers. Licensing is nearly identical to locals.
- Third-country nationals (non-EU): Must obtain a valid residence permit with the right to be self-employed (Rot-Weiß-Rot Karte Plus or similar).
- Proof of residency or business address in Austria is usually required at the time of application.
If you’re not yet living in Austria, you should start with immigration procedures before applying for trade and alcohol licenses.
Legal Representation and Business Address Rules
To apply for a license, you must have a registered Austrian business address — even if you aren’t physically living in Austria full-time yet.
Key requirements:
- The restaurant must have a valid operating address for trade registration.
- If you’re not fluent in German or familiar with Austrian bureaucracy, appointing a local representative or business manager is allowed.
- In some provinces, the managing director must reside in Austria to ensure legal oversight.
Many expat entrepreneurs partner with Austrian locals or appoint a licensed Gewerberechtlicher Geschäftsführer (responsible trade manager) to meet this requirement.
Required Language Skills or Translations
While Austria doesn’t legally require German fluency for trade license holders, most official documents, forms, and inspections are conducted in German.
Recommendations:
- Use a certified translator for your application documents if they are in English or another language.
- Have a German-speaking legal or business advisor accompany you to meetings with local authorities.
- Translate your floor plans, menus, safety protocols, and staff training documents to avoid delays.
Being proactive about communication reduces misunderstandings and speeds up processing.
Working with a Local Consultant or Lawyer
While not mandatory, many expat restaurant owners hire professionals to help navigate Austria’s trade and alcohol licensing system.
A local consultant can:
- Handle trade license submissions and government paperwork
- Ensure your restaurant layout complies with zoning and safety rules
- Represent your business in official inspections or inquiries
- Help resolve language barriers or cultural misunderstandings
You can find certified professionals through your regional WKO office, or through law firms that specialize in Gastgewerbe (hospitality law).
Alcohol Licenses for Pop-Ups, Food Trucks, or Events
Austria’s alcohol laws don’t just apply to traditional brick-and-mortar restaurants. If you’re planning to serve alcohol at a pop-up, from a food truck, or during a temporary event like a festival or private catering job, you’ll need to obtain the proper short-term or mobile licenses. These licenses are more flexible — but they’re still regulated. Skipping this step can get you fined or shut down on the spot.
Here’s how to approach alcohol licensing for non-traditional formats.
Short-Term Event Permits (Genehmigung für Veranstaltungen)
If you’re serving alcohol at a one-time or recurring event (like a market stall, street food festival, or private celebration), you’ll typically need a temporary serving permit from the local authority.
Key details:
- Known as a “Ausschankgenehmigung” or “Veranstaltungsbewilligung”
- Applied for at the local Magistrat or Bezirkshauptmannschaft
- Requires basic documentation: event location, timeframe, safety plan, proof of trade license (if applicable)
- Must be submitted at least 2 to 4 weeks in advance
Fees are modest (usually under €100), but the conditions can be strict — especially regarding alcohol service hours, noise control, and youth protection.
Serving Alcohol at Markets or Festivals
Many food and beverage entrepreneurs participate in seasonal events like Christmas markets, summer street food festivals, or wine fairs. In these cases, alcohol licenses are often event-specific, and the organizer may coordinate the application process.
Here’s how it typically works:
- You’ll need to register with the event organizer, who will submit your name for alcohol sales approval.
- Some cities (like Vienna) require you to register your mobile operation with the MA 6 or MA 36 offices.
- Alcohol must be clearly labeled, and prices should be visibly posted.
Serving without approval — even if the event itself is licensed — can result in immediate removal and fines.
Mobile Businesses and Special Constraints
If you’re running a food truck, catering business, or mobile bar, Austria allows you to serve alcohol, but you need a specific type of trade license and often regional permission for each location.
Requirements often include:
- A valid mobile trade license (mobiles Gastgewerbe) with alcohol service explicitly mentioned
- Approval from each municipality where you plan to operate
- Proof of hygiene compliance and food transport safety
- Clear designation of non-smoking service zones
Alcohol service from a mobile unit is more restricted than in fixed locations. For example, some cities prohibit spirits from being served on the street but allow beer or wine under controlled conditions.
Pro Tip:
Even if your pop-up or truck serves alcohol for just a few hours, you’re still legally responsible for age checks, intoxication management, and neighborhood noise. Always carry a copy of your license on-site to avoid confusion with local law enforcement or inspectors.
Expert Tips to Speed Up the Process
Applying for an alcohol license in Austria doesn’t have to be a drawn-out affair. While some delays are unavoidable — especially in large cities or during peak seasons — many restaurant owners lose valuable time due to missing documents, zoning misunderstandings, or avoidable administrative back-and-forth. After guiding dozens of hospitality businesses through the Austrian licensing system, here are some real-world strategies that actually help speed things up.
Get Preliminary Approval from Authorities Before Signing a Lease
Before committing to a property, visit or call the local Bezirkshauptmannschaft or Magistrat and ask:
- Is the address zoned for hospitality use?
- Are there any restrictions on alcohol service in this building or neighborhood?
- Can a bar or outdoor area be included in the license?
This early check can save you from leasing a space that requires costly renovations — or worse, isn’t eligible for an alcohol license at all.
Use a Local Architect or Planner for Floor Plans
One of the biggest causes of application delays is incorrect or incomplete floor plans, especially when it comes to:
- Emergency exits
- Kitchen layouts
- Smoking/non-smoking zones
- Outdoor seating or Schanigärten
Hiring a local, licensed planner who understands municipal fire safety and hospitality codes ensures your plans will be accepted without major revisions.
Prepare for Inspections — Know What They Really Look For
Authorities don’t just look at paperwork. They’ll visit your site to inspect fire exits, hygiene, signage, alcohol storage, and safety measures.
Here’s how to stay inspection-ready:
- Keep exit routes clear and marked
- Ensure extinguishers and smoke detectors are installed and maintained
- Post age restriction signs for alcohol
- Make sure staff are trained and know how to demonstrate compliance
Run a mock inspection yourself — or with a consultant — before your scheduled visit.
Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute Before Opening
A common mistake is waiting until construction or hiring is finished to start the alcohol license process. Don’t do that.
Instead:
- Apply as soon as you have a signed lease and floor plan
- You can handle permits and licenses in parallel with renovations or fit-out
- Most authorities allow you to amend your application if minor changes occur later
Starting early gives you room to fix issues without postponing your grand opening.
Bonus Tip: Keep Digital and Printed Copies of Everything
Authorities often request resubmissions, clarifications, or physical signatures. To save time:
- Store all documents in a shared folder (Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.)
- Bring printed copies to meetings
- Scan and save receipts, approvals, and communications for your records
Fast access to your paperwork helps you respond to requests immediately, instead of wasting days searching or reprinting.
Final Checklist Before You Serve Your First Drink
You’re almost there — the renovations are done, your menu is set, and the tables are ready. But before you start pouring wine or mixing cocktails, it’s essential to double-check that your business is 100% compliant with Austria’s alcohol regulations. Missing even one small detail could delay your opening, trigger fines, or worse — invalidate your alcohol license.
Here’s a practical, no-fluff checklist to make sure you’re good to go.
✅ Trade License (Gewerbeanmeldung) Completed
- Registered under Gastgewerbe
- Alcohol service explicitly included in your activity scope
✅ Alcohol Serving Rights Approved
- Part of your Gastgewerbeberechtigung or separate Ausschankgenehmigung
- Approval documentation in-hand and filed
✅ Zoning and Building Use Verified
- Premises are located in a hospitality-zoned area
- Outdoor seating, bar areas, and entertainment zones approved if applicable
✅ Fire & Safety Compliance Passed
- Fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, and escape routes installed
- Safety inspection completed and signed off
✅ Health and Hygiene Standards Met
- Kitchen and bar areas meet HACCP and local hygiene laws
- Waste disposal and handwashing facilities are in place and documented
✅ Alcohol Signage and Age Restrictions Posted
- Clear signs stating minimum age requirements for beer, wine, and spirits
- Menus and price lists include alcohol content where required
✅ Staff Trained in Responsible Alcohol Service
- Team understands age verification laws and intoxication limits
- Policy for refusing service to underage or intoxicated guests in place
✅ Tax Setup Finalized for Alcohol Sales
- Alcohol tracked separately in your POS system
- VAT for alcohol (currently 20%) properly configured and reported
✅ All Permits and Certificates On-Site
- Keep printed and digital copies of all licenses, approvals, and fire inspection reports available for inspection
✅ Ready for Unannounced Visits
- Premises, team, and documentation prepared for random checks by local authorities
🎯 Pro Tip:
Walk through your restaurant as if you’re an inspector. Ask yourself:
“Would I be confident showing this space and paperwork to a licensing officer right now?”
If the answer isn’t a confident “yes,” take the time to fix any gaps before opening night.
Key Takeaways
Getting an alcohol license for your restaurant in Austria is a structured but manageable process — as long as you understand the legal landscape and stay organized from the start.
- Most alcohol licenses in Austria are issued as part of your hospitality trade license (Gastgewerbeberechtigung).
- You must apply through your local Bezirkshauptmannschaft or Magistrat, with correct documentation and floor plans.
- Zoning, fire safety, and hygiene compliance are just as important as the paperwork.
- Non-traditional setups like food trucks, pop-ups, and events require separate or temporary licenses.
- Foreigners and expats can apply, but may face extra steps related to residency, language, or business representation.
- Costs include application fees, inspections, possible renovations, and ongoing compliance expenses.
- Once licensed, your responsibilities continue — especially around staff training, tax reporting, and age verification.
- Staying compliant helps you avoid fines, suspensions, or license revocation during unannounced inspections.
By following the steps outlined in this guide — and treating compliance as an ongoing business practice — you’ll be well positioned to serve responsibly and grow your restaurant with confidence.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Erkin Coban
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