The City of Stonecrest recently updated its operational rules for businesses with late-night hours. Effective immediately, all businesses—with or without an OnPremises Alcoholic Beverage License—must close by 12:30 a.m. This change applies to
restaurants, bars, event centers, and clubs that previously operated until 3:30 a.m.
Businesses that wish to stay open past 12:30 a.m. must secure a Special Administrative Permit (SAP) to extend hours until 3:30 a.m. SAP applications must be submitted to the Department of Planning and Zoning for processing. Once the application is submitted, the Business License Division will make the final decision. Approval is not automatic and depends on individual case reviews.
Late-night establishments approved to continue business past 12:30 a.m. must stop alcohol sales by 3 a.m. (final call), patrons must vacate the premises by 3:30 a.m. Businesses without an SAP must stop alcohol sales by midnight (final call) and clear premises by 12:30 a.m.
The City is allowing a 60-day grace period for businesses to comply. All affected establishments must obtain an SAP by Feb. 15, 2025. After this date, any business operating without an SAP shall close at 12:30 a.m.
Non-compliance will lead to fines and citations, which is why business owners are strongly encouraged to apply now to avoid any disruption to operations.
Businesses applying for an On-Premises Alcoholic Beverage Catering License after Nov. 25, 2024, must also apply for an SAP if they intend to operate past 12:30 a.m.
The Hours of Operation and Alcohol Hours ordinances were passed during the Nov. 25 City Council Meeting.
For questions or assistance, contact the City of Stonecrest at 770-224-0200 or email licensing@stonecrestga.gov.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is a Late-Night Establishment?
A: A business approved to operate between 12:30 a.m. and 3:30 a.m. with an SAP.
Q: How do I apply for an SAP?
A: Submit your application to the Planning & Zoning Department. The Business License Division reviews and approves applications on a case-by-case basis.
Q: Can I operate past 12:30 a.m. with only an On-Premises Alcoholic Beverage License?
A: No. You need an SAP to operate beyond 12:30 a.m.
Q: When should I apply for an SAP?
A: Apply immediately or when submitting a new business license application if extended hours are planned.
Q: Can I sell alcohol until 3:30 a.m. as a Late-Night Establishment?
A: No. Alcohol sales must end by 3:00 a.m., and patrons must leave by 3:30 a.m
Q: What if I miss the Dec. 31, 2024, deadline to renew my business and alcohol licenses?
A: Licenses that expire on Dec. 31 must be renewed by that date to avoid penalties. Unrenewed licenses will require new applications.
Q: Who needs a Pouring Permit issued by DeKalb County?
A: Managers, servers, bartenders, and anyone handling alcohol must have a valid pouring permit. Keep permits on-site for inspections. Failure to comply may result in license suspension or revocation.
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