For anyone entering the alcohol industry—whether opening a winery, brewery, or distilled spirits plant—obtaining the appropriate federal permits from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (“TTB”) is required. One of the most common questions we hear as TTB permit attorneys is: “How much does it cost to file a TTB permit?”
Federal TTB Permit Application Fees
The good news: filing a TTB permit is free.
The TTB does not charge an application fee for federal basic permits required under the Federal Alcohol Administration Act (“FAA Act”). This means whether you are applying for:
- A Brewer’s Notice
- A Distilled Spirits Plant (“DSP”) Permit
- A Winery Basic Permit
- An Importer Basic Permit
…the federal government does not charge a filing fee.
Other Costs Associated With a TTB Permit
While the TTB permit filing cost itself is zero, there may be indirect costs to consider:
- Business Formation Costs: Registering your business entity and preparing organizational documents.
- Zoning & Building Compliance: Many municipalities require special use permits or building modifications before federal approval.
- Bonds (if required): Certain businesses may need to file bonds with TTB. A bond obtained through a surety typically has an annual fee. Other types of bonds, such as a cash bond, may require submission of the actual monetary sum.
Time Is a Cost Factor
Filing for a TTB permit takes time and detailed preparation. Applications often require:
- Background checks for key personnel
- Floor plans and equipment lists
- Operational and financial documentation
Errors or omissions can delay approval, impacting your launch timeline and increasing your indirect costs. It is important that potential applicants consider that time itself can be a cost factor, even if the application itself is free.
How Lindsey Zahn P.C. Can Help
At Lindsey Zahn P.C., we focus on alcohol beverage law and regularly assist clients nationwide with TTB permits. Our firm can:
- Determine which federal permits your business needs based on your operations.
- Prepare and submit complete and compliant applications to avoid costly delays.
- Review zoning documents, entity structure, and compliance requirements before filing.
- Communicate directly with TTB specialists to expedite processing and resolve issues.
- Provide guidance on state licensing requirements connected to your federal filing.
If you’re unsure where to start with your TTB permit—or want to make sure your application is complete—contact us today to schedule an initial consultation. We’ll guide you through every step of the process and help you avoid costly delays.
📩 Email us at info@zahnlawpc.com
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