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Alcohol Surveys for Liquor Licenses in Georgia

Distance certifications for liquor license applications.

What is an Alcohol Survey?

An alcohol survey, also called a distance survey or proximity survey, is a certified measurement that documents the exact distance between a proposed alcohol-selling establishment and nearby churches, schools, and other restricted properties. Georgia law requires these measurements before a liquor license, beer and wine permit, or pouring permit can be granted, and they must be certified by a Georgia-licensed land surveyor.

The purpose of the alcohol survey is to verify that your establishment complies with local distance ordinances designed to separate alcohol sales from sensitive community locations. Each city and county in Georgia sets its own minimum distance requirements, which can range from 100 feet to 600 feet or more depending on the jurisdiction. The measurements are typically taken along public rights-of-way from the nearest entrance of your establishment to the nearest property line of the restricted property.

At S&S Land Surveying, we have extensive experience performing alcohol surveys across all of Georgia for restaurants, bars, convenience stores, package stores, breweries, and entertainment venues. We understand the specific requirements of each local jurisdiction and produce certified plats that meet county and city standards the first time, so your license application is not delayed by survey issues.

Our alcohol surveys are thorough. We identify every qualifying restricted property within the required radius of your establishment, measure the distances Accurately according to the method specified in your local ordinance, and produce a certified plat with a professional seal that your licensing authority will accept. We serve clients in Cedartown, Rome, Cartersville, Dallas, and communities throughout Polk, Floyd, Bartow, Paulding, and surrounding counties.

Who Needs an Alcohol Survey?

  • Restaurants applying for a liquor or pouring license
  • Convenience stores seeking beer and wine permits
  • Bars, breweries, and entertainment venues
  • Package stores and liquor retailers
  • Event venues needing temporary alcohol permits
  • Businesses renewing or transferring existing licenses

Our Alcohol Survey Process

  1. Research local requirements. We review your city or county ordinance to determine the specific distance requirements, measurement method, and restricted property types for your jurisdiction.
  2. Identify restricted properties. We research and locate all churches, schools, daycare centers, and other restricted properties within the required radius of your establishment.
  3. Field measurements. We measure the exact distances from your establishment entrance to each restricted property line along public rights-of-way using survey-grade equipment.
  4. Prepare certified plat. We draft a professional plat showing all measurements, restricted property locations, and your establishment, sealed and certified by a Georgia-licensed surveyor.
  5. Deliver for your application. You receive the certified plat ready to submit with your liquor license application. We provide support if your licensing authority has questions.

Why Choose S&S Land Surveying

Fast Turnaround

Most alcohol surveys completed within 1-3 business days.

Accepted Everywhere

Our certified plats meet every GA county and city requirement.

40+ years Experience

We know the local ordinances and what each jurisdiction expects.

Georgia Licensed

Fully licensed and insured land surveyor as required by state law.

Alcohol Survey FAQ

Do I need an alcohol survey for a liquor license in GA?

Yes. Georgia law requires a certified distance survey from a licensed land surveyor before a liquor license, beer and wine permit, or pouring permit can be issued. The survey must demonstrate that your establishment meets minimum distance requirements from churches, schools, and other restricted properties.

How much does an alcohol survey cost in Georgia?

Alcohol survey costs in Georgia typically range from $400 to $800 depending on the number of restricted properties nearby and the complexity of the measurements. Contact S&S Land Surveying for a free estimate specific to your location.

What distance must a bar or liquor store be from a church or school in Georgia?

Distance requirements vary by municipality and county in Georgia. Common requirements range from 100 to 600 feet, measured along public rights-of-way. Your local licensing authority can confirm the specific distance for your jurisdiction.

How long does an alcohol survey take?

Most alcohol surveys can be completed within 1-3 business days from scheduling. The fieldwork typically takes a few hours, and the certified plat is usually ready within 1-2 days after the site visit.

How is the distance measured for an alcohol survey?

Distances are measured along public rights-of-way from the nearest entrance of the proposed alcohol establishment to the nearest property line of each restricted property, following the specific method required by your local ordinance.

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