To get your distillery up and running in Virginia, you’ll need to navigate two main phases: the Manufacturing License (to make the alcohol) and the Distillery Store Agreement (to sell it to the public).
Below is the checklist of required documents and the specific forms you will need to download or complete online.
1. The Application Phase (Manufacturing)
You must submit Part 1: Industry License Application. This is the core document for both Standard and Limited (Farm) distilleries.
- Form: Industry License Application (Part 1)
- Fees: $195 application fee + your specific license fee (starting at $490).
- Background Check Form: You must complete Section F (Related Individual Entity) within the application for every owner, partner, or officer. There is a $15 fee per person for the criminal background check.
Required Document Checklist:
- Federal TTB Permit: You must include a copy of your federal Distilled Spirits Plant (DSP) permit.
- Lease or Deed: Proof that you own or have a lease for the property.
- Zoning Certification: A letter from your local zoning official confirming that a distillery is a permitted use at that address.
- Floor Plan: A clear diagram of the distillery, including the manufacturing area and the proposed “store” area.
- Published Notice: Proof (tearsheet) from a local newspaper showing you ran your “Notice of Application” for the required time.
2. The Sales Phase (Distillery Store)
Because Virginia is a control state, you cannot simply open a cash register. You must be appointed as an agent of the state.
- The Agreement: You must sign the Distillery Store Agreement. This contract dictates how you sell bottles on-site.
- Product Listing (MIPS): You must list your products in the Management of Inventory and Product Sales (MIPS) system. Even if you only sell them at your own distillery, they must be “in the system.”
- Surety Bond: You may be required to post a bond to ensure the state receives its portion of the markup and taxes.
3. Remote Events & Tastings
If you plan to take your spirits “on the road” to festivals:
- Form: Distillery Request for Remote License.
- Usage: This allows you to set up a temporary “ABC Store” booth at licensed events.
Important Resource Links
- Online Portal: Virginia ABC Licensing (VAL) System — Use this to apply online rather than mailing paper forms (it’s usually faster).
- Operational Guide: Distillery Store Manual (PDF) — This is the “bible” for how to run your shop legally in VA.
Would you like me to help you draft the “Notice of Application” text that you’ll need to send to the local newspaper?