ABC Review and Inspections

To obtain an ABC license for a business, you must meet all requirements from the NC ABC Commission and apply for an ABC permit.

If your business is in the City of Raleigh, please follow the steps below in order to successfully process your ABC license application.

Step One: Submit the Inspection Zoning Compliance Form

While most of what's required will need to be submitted to the state, the City of Raleigh Planning and Development Department needs you (the applicant) to complete only Section A from the Inspection Zoning Compliance Form and submit it by email to zoningpermits@raleighnc.gov.

Step Two: Application Review + Payment

Zoning staff from the City of Raleigh will review your application to confirm your business address is zoned for the intended use.

Once Zoning has approved the application, all fees will need to be paid for the City of Raleigh permit:

To make your payment and track the progress of your application online: go to the Permit and Development Portal.

To make your payment over the phone: Please call 919-996-2500.

Step Three: Scheduling inspections

Once payment has been made, please contact Jim Thompson. He will schedule your inspection and coordinate with the Fire Marshal so that both the required building and fire inspections can happen simultaneously. Inspections will be done on-site once construction activities are completed. 

Step Four: Raleigh Police Department

After all inspections are completed, a digital copy of the form will be sent to the Police Department, which will finalize the application process. The Raleigh Police Department (RPD) will handle background checks, local opinion forms, and related requirements. If you need to contact RPD, please call 919-996-5130.

Required Documents for Processing the Local Government Opinion Form:

1. Local Certified Background Check on Applicant
   Obtainable from the Wake County Clerk of Courts or an equivalent local resource.
2. Diagram of the Premises
   Include a clear indication of where alcohol will be stored (a hand-drawn diagram is acceptable).
3. NETFORCES Information Request Form
   Complete the attached fillable PDF with as much detail as possible, especially contact information.
4. Copy of Signed Lease Agreement

These documents can be submitted in one of two ways:

• Email: Scan and send to eric.hill@raleighnc.gov.
• Drop-Off: Deliver to 1221 Front St., Raleigh, NC.

It is recommended that you submit these documents before your inspections are completed.

Once all required City approvals are obtained, RPD will contact you to collect your approval packet, which you will need to present to the NC ABC Commission.