LANSING, Mich. - With summer just around the corner, the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) encourages nonprofit organizations to plan ahead when seeking a special liquor license for the 2026 outdoor hospitality season. Special licenses, which are also known as a “one-day license,” allow nonprofits in Michigan to serve alcoholic beverages at outdoor, fundraising, and other specialty events.
"Timely submission of your special license application is crucial for ensuring that your event can operate smoothly and in compliance with Michigan's liquor laws. We encourage all applicants to submit their applications as soon as possible to avoid delays and to facilitate a thorough review process. This not only helps us serve you better but also ensures that you can focus on providing a safe and enjoyable experience for your customers,” said Kristin Beltzer, Chair of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission.
Requests made to the MLCC for special licenses increase sharply in the spring and summer as organizations apply for special licenses for outside patio parties, street events, and beer tents. The MLCC reviews and approves over 9,000 special licenses a year, most of which are issued for events in the summer months.
Due to the high demand during this season, applicants are urged to submit special license applications well before the event to ensure ample processing time. Applications not received timely by the MLCC may result in a license not being issued.
The MLCC also reminds nonprofit organizations that they must be authorized to do business in Michigan to be issued a special license. Nonprofit organizations must be registered as a nonprofit corporation and in good standing with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) Corporations, Securities & Commercial Licensing Bureau.
Restaurants, bars, hotels, and manufacturing tasting rooms that are already licensed to serve alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption, but that do not have authorization to serve guests in outdoor areas, must also apply for either temporary outdoor service for specific outdoor events or request permanent permission to utilize an outdoor service area year-round.
For more information on how to apply for special licenses and outdoor service authorization, or for more information about the MLCC, please visit Liquor Control Commission.
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The mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.
