Overview

Permits a newly constructed grocery store to sell beer, wine, and spirits for off-premises consumption.

Eligibility

Permits a newly constructed grocery store to sell beer, wine, and spirits for off-premises consumption.

Licensees that operate a newly constructed grocery store for at least one (1) year in a Ward 5 “qualifying zone”, in the Ward 6 Buzzard Point neighborhood, or in Wards 7 or 8 become eligible to apply to open a store of the same type elsewhere in DC.

To Apply

Applicants must submit an Alcohol License Application.

Applications are subject to a public comment period and ABC Board approval.

Of Note

The license class was created to attract new grocery stores to healthy food priority areas in DC.

A minimum of 8,000 square feet must be dedicated to selling at least six (6) of the seven (7) categories—fresh fruits/vegetables; fresh and uncooked meats, poultry, or seafood; dairy products; canned foods; frozen foods; dry groceries or baked goods; or non-alcoholic beverages.

Alcohol sales cannot constitute more than 25 percent of gross receipts annually.

Valid Period and Fees

Licenses are valid for up three (3) years with all licenses of the same type expiring on the same date.

See Fee and Renewal Schedule. Fees are non-refundable.