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1. What kind of permit do I need to sell alcohol?

A conditional use permit is required to sell alcohol.  A conditional use permit is conditioned to mitigate any adverse impacts associated with alcohol related uses. Conditions of approval include time limits on the permit approval and hours of operation, in addition to other applicable conditions. A conditional use permit is a discretionary permit and requires specific findings to be made. The Zoning Administrator or Planning Commission are the final decision makers, and can deny an application if appropriate findings cannot be made to support the requested use permit.

2. I want to sell alcohol at my business. What should I do first?

All alcohol related uses require a conditional use permit prior to selling alcohol. Depending on the type of ABC license that you are requesting, an Administrative Use Permit (approved by the Zoning Administrator) or a Special Use Permit (approved by the Planning Commission) will be required. Please contact the Planning Division for additional guidance.

3. What documentation is required to submit a conditional use permit application?

An applicant must submit an Administrative or Special Use Permit application along with the submittal requirements for alcohol-related uses. You can find the Administrative/Special Use Permit application here and Alcohol Submittal Requirements here.

4. What is the process for obtaining a conditional use permit?

1. Staff takes in the alcohol related uses application and charges appropriate fees
2. Staff reviews the application and makes a completion determination (about 30 days). If the application is deemed complete, Staff will notify you via an incompleteness letter detailing the additional information required to continue processing the application.
3. Staff then schedules an applicant interview with City Staff (within 60 days of receipt of a complete application). 
4. Staff writes the staff report and schedules the application for a public hearing, if required. (30-60 days)

5. Do I need to obtain a conditional use permit with the City of Watsonville if I am transferring an existing ABC license to new ownership?

Yes, a change in mode or character of operation of a regulatory license, including a change in ownership, requires a new conditional use permit.

6. Do I need to obtain a conditional use permit with the City of Watsonville if I am changing the license type (I currently have a Type 20 ABC License and want a Type 21 ABC License)?

Yes, a change in mode or character of operation of a regulatory license, including a change in type, requires a new conditional use permit.

7. Is the City's conditional use permit to allow for the alcohol sales process the same as obtaining an alcohol license from ABC?

No, the City of Watsonville’s conditional use permit process is separate from obtaining a license from ABC. A conditional use permit is required from the City of Watsonville prior to issuance of the ABC License.

8. If I obtained a No-Fee Use Permit from the City of Watsonville and I sell my business, will the new owner have to obtain a conditional use permit?

Yes, a change in mode or character of operation of a regulatory license, including a change in ownership, requires a new conditional use permit.

9. Is there a time limit on a conditional use permit allowing for the sale of alcohol?

Yes, in accordance with WMC Chapter 14-25, a conditional use permit  expires after 20 years. At that time, an applicant must reapply for a new conditional use permit.

10. Does the City of Watsonville have separation requirements for alcohol licenses?

Yes, the City requires a minimum distance between certain ABC License types. You can find information regarding separation requirements in the City’s Alcohol Ordinance. If you have additional questions, contact the Planning Division for assistance.