Starting an alcohol beverage business is exciting, but navigating the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (“TTB”) permitting process can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re launching a winery, brewery, distillery, or becoming an importer or wholesaler, securing your TTB permit is one of the most important first steps toward federal compliance.
At Lindsey Zahn P.C., we’ve guided numerous entrepreneurs through the TTB permitting process—avoiding common mistakes and streamlining approvals. This guide outlines some of the most crucial considerations before you hit “submit.”
1. Form Your Business Entity First
Before you begin the application, make sure your business entity is formally registered or formed. The TTB issues permits to legal business entities (with limited exceptions, such as sole proprietorships).
As part of the TTB application, you’ll need to provide supporting documentation such as your operating agreement or articles of incorporation. Changing your business structure after submitting the application may require you to reapply entirely. Additionally, keeping your personal and business finances separate is crucial for compliance, especially during TTB audits.
For questions about structuring your alcohol business properly, email us at info@zahnlawpc.com or visit our Contact Page.
2. Secure Your Premises in Advance
TTB typically requires proof that you have secured a physical location before applying. This could be a deed, lease, or signed agreement.
The premises must be secured, with controlled access and a clear layout. Whether you lease or own, this space will become your bonded or permitted premises. For some applications, such as the DSP permit, winery permit, or brewer’s notice, TTB requires specific measurements, a detailed diagram, and a clear operational plan.
Need guidance on what qualifies as suitable premises? Contact us at info@zahnlawpc.com.
3. Wait Until Construction Is Substantially Complete
If your proposed premises is undergoing construction, we strongly recommend waiting until construction is complete—except for minor finishing touches like painting or installing furniture.
Why? For manufacturer-tier applications, TTB requires exact layout details—down to door measurements and floor plans. Any discrepancies between your diagram and the actual premises could lead to delays or even problems post-approval.
We help clients spot issues in floor plans and construction plans before they become problems. Reach out to us if you need assistance now.
4. Have Your Equipment Ready or on Order
For some TTB applications, the applicant must describe the equipment on site. This is particularly the case for distilled spirits plants (“DSPs”). DSP applicants need to provide the capacity, function, and serial numbers of key production equipment.
Even if equipment isn’t installed yet, you should know where it will be placed and have a finalized list.
Unsure what the TTB will expect for your business model? Email us and we can walk you through your specific setup.
5. Know Whether You Need a Bond
Not every permit applicant is required to post a bond, but some are. Whether you need one depends on the type of operation you run and your projected excise tax liability.
We recommend reviewing the TTB’s small producer bond exemptions or consulting with an alcohol beverage attorney. If you’re unsure where your operation falls, we’re happy to help evaluate the need.
6. Do Not Start Producing Until You Are Permitted
This may sound obvious, but it’s worth emphasizing: You cannot begin producing alcohol until your TTB permit is issued.
Even for testing, production without a federal permit is prohibited. Engaging in production activity beforehand can put you at risk of enforcement actions.
How Lindsey Zahn P.C. Can Help with Your TTB Permit Application
At Lindsey Zahn P.C., we offer full-service support for federal and state alcohol permits. Whether you’re applying for the first time or looking for a review before submission, we can help streamline your process, reduce follow-up inquiries from regulators, and get your business operational faster.
We support:
- Breweries, brewpubs, and farm breweries
- Distilleries, micro-distilleries, and farm distilleries
- Wineries, farm wineries, meaderies, and cideries
- Importers and wholesalers
Let’s ensure your federal application is as strong as your business vision.
📧 Contact us at info@zahnlawpc.com or visit our Contact Page to schedule your initial consultation.