Before a winery, cidery, meadery, brewery, distillery, importer, or wholesaler can operate, it needs the right federal permit from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). Lindsey Zahn P.C. prepares and files TTB permit applications, amendments, and relocations for producers and brand owners of every size, from family-owned farm operations to national portfolios with complex ownership structures.
Permit applications look simple until you start answering the questions. Many are vague, and instructions are limited. Mistakes lead to improper reporting, avoidable risk, and delays. The firm gets ahead of the issues a TTB specialist will look for before your application reaches their desk.
Moving, expanding, or changing ownership
Relocating a TTB-permitted premises takes strategy: how the new space will be used, its layout, timing, and the compliance questions that come with it. The firm also helps clients add non-contiguous premises where federal law allows, set up alternating proprietorships and alternating premises, and file the amendments required for changes in control, officers, directors, members, and stockholders.
How the firm helps
- Advise on, draft, and file the initial federal basic permit for a new winery, brewery (brewer’s notice), distillery (DSP), cidery, or meadery
- Determine the proper federal permit for a brand owner in a contract production or custom crush relationship
- Review permits on file with TTB and draft amendments to keep them current
- Plan and file non-contiguous premises amendments and secondary locations
- Guide changes in control and changes in proprietorship from strategy through filing
Recent representations
- Secured an amendment for a non-contiguous premises covering a new space for a distilled spirits plant (DSP)
- Filed and obtained an amendment permitting two distinct wineries to operate at the same location (alternating proprietorship)
- Obtained an amendment reflecting the change in control of a permitted DSP
- Obtained a new federal basic winery permit for a startup winery
- Obtained a successful result for a wholesaler in TTB’s Temporary Voluntary Disclosure Program
Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Frequently asked questions
Which TTB permit does my business need?
It depends on what you make and how you operate. Wineries, breweries, and distilleries each file a different federal application, and brand owners who use contract production or custom crush may need a different permit than the producer. The firm reviews your business model before anything is filed.
Do I need a new TTB permit if I move or change owners?
Often you need an amendment rather than a new permit, but relocations and ownership changes come with specific filing requirements and timing. The firm determines what TTB requires and prepares the filings.
Do I also need a state license?
Yes. Federal permits and state licenses are separate. The firm handles both, including New York State Liquor Authority licenses.