A Temporary Event Approval (TEA) is required any time a permitted bar or restaurant caters alcohol at an off-site event in Dallas.
For bars and restaurants in the Dallas–Fort Worth area, the ability to serve alcohol at off-site events—such as weddings, festivals, or corporate holiday parties—is a valuable revenue stream. However, taking your alcohol operations off-premises requires strict adherence to TABC regulations through Temporary Event Approvals (TEAs).
If you are planning to take your business on the road this season, here is what you need to know about staying compliant.
1. You Likely Already Have the Right to Cater
In the past, establishments were required to obtain a separate "catering permit" to serve alcohol off-site. Today, these rights are generally included in the primary permits held by most venues.
Mixed Beverage Permit: (For locations with a full bar).
Wine and Malt Beverage Retailer’s Permit: (For locations that sell beer and wine).
However, possessing the right does not mean you can simply show up and serve. A Temporary Event Approval is required any time a bar or restaurant caters alcohol at an event off-premises.
2. "Selling" vs. "Catering": The Approval Timeline
In general, the TABC distinguishes between events where you are selling alcohol by the drink and private events where the host is paying. Your timeline for approval depends entirely on this distinction.
Selling by the Drink (Public Events): If you are selling alcohol directly to guests (e.g., at an art or music festival), you must request prior approval from the TABC at least 10 business days in advance to avoid fees.
Private Catering (Private Events): If you are catering a private party (like an office holiday party or wedding) where the host pays for the alcohol and it is not sold by the drink, you are simply required to notify the TABC prior to the event. No late fees apply for this specific type of notification.
💡 Storm Liquor License Pro-Tip: Even if you are just catering a private wedding, do not skip the notification! While you avoid the 10-day fee rule for private events, failure to notify the TABC at all is a violation of your permit.
3. Location Eligibility Requirements
Before signing a contract for an off-site event, you must ensure the location is legally eligible for alcohol service. As part of the TEA process, you must affirm that it is legal to sell alcohol at that specific location.
Your Location Checklist:
Landlord Permission: You must obtain written permission from the property owner (Landlord) and provide it to the TABC.
No Conflicting Permits: The specific location cannot already have another TABC permit associated with it.
Protected Places: The location cannot be too close to a school, church, or other area where the possession or sale of alcohol is illegal.
Local Ordinances: You may need to check with the City of Dallas to ensure the location complies with local zoning regulations.
4. The "Storage Time" Trap
A common compliance pitfall is failing to account for the time alcohol is on-site but not being served. When submitting your TEA request, the approved time period must cover the entire duration alcohol is physically present at the venue.
⚠️ Compliance Alert: If you need to store your alcohol at the off-site location before the event starts (setup) or after it ends (waiting for pickup), that time period must be included in your event request. Don't forget to include time for setup and take down.
5. Standard Rules Still Apply
Finally, remember that a Temporary Event Approval does not grant immunity from standard TABC regulations. All compliance rules apply off-premises just as they do at your permanent location. This includes strict prohibitions on selling to intoxicated persons or minors.
Need Help Managing Your Event Approvals?
Deadlines and requirements for your specific event vary, but the risk of fines doesn't. If you are planning a busy season of off-site events, consult with an experienced TABC licensing professional to manage your TEAs so you never miss a 10-day window.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. TABC regulations are subject to change.
