Beer Permits

It is mandatory to obtain a permit from the Beer Board prior to engaging in the sale, storage for sale, distribution for sale, or manufacture of beer. This requires completing an application form (linked below) along with a non-refundable application fee of two hundred dollars ($250). Applicants must be individuals of good moral character and must confirm familiarity with TCA Title 57 and Municipal Code Title 8. Certain exemptions apply to permit fees, such as charitable, non-profit, or political organizations within the city.

For the sale, storage, or distribution of alcoholic beverages other than beer, applicants must secure a permit from the State of Tennessee. This may necessitate a Certificate of Compliance endorsed by the Board of Mayor and Aldermen which is a separate meeting from the Beer Board. For details, contact the Alcoholic Beverage Commission (ABC) at www.tn.gov/ABC or by phone at 615-741-1602.

Applicants will be notified in writing of a scheduled Beer Board meeting, and attendance is compulsory for the applicant, or their representative. Following approval, applicants must furnish documentation of sales tax registration within ten days to the Finance Department.

An annual privilege tax of $100.00 is imposed on the business selling, distributing, storing, or manufacturing beer in the state each January 1. Any holder of a beer permit issued after January 1 shall pay a pro rata portion of the annual privilege tax when the permit is issued.

Finally, a licensing fee, as specified in Municipal Code Title 8, Chapter 8-104, must be remitted to the finance director by entities selling alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption.

 The sale of alcoholic beverages in the City of White House is regulated under Title 8 of the Municipal Code and in accordance with Tennessee State Law (TCA Title 57). Any individual or business entity seeking to open a Retail Package Liquor Store or to obtain a Certificate of Compliance to sell alcoholic beverages other than beer must meet specific licensing requirements outlined by the City.

Retail Package Liquor Stores

Retail licenses are limited based on population and are issued only after thorough review by the Board. As of the current code, no more than three (3) retail liquor store licenses may be issued unless the city population exceeds 24,000.

Certificate of Compliance

Retailers seeking to sell alcoholic beverages for on-premise consumption (such as restaurants) or for off-premise consumption (such as convenience stores or grocery stores) must apply for a Certificate of Compliance. This certificate is a requirement before applying for a state-issued license through the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC).

To apply:

• Contact the City Recorder’s Office to begin the process.

• Submit the required documents and application fee.

• Appear before the Board of Mayor and Aldermen for a vote on the certificate request.

The City of White House is committed to the responsible regulation of alcoholic beverage sales to protect the health, safety, and welfare of our community. For full application requirements and process details, please refer to Title 8, Chapter 3 of the Municipal Code.