State offering new temporary operating permits for breweries, distilleries, cideries and meaderies

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — New York State is now allowing breweries, distilleries, cideries and meaderies to open while their liquor licenses are still pending, as long as they get a new document called a temporary operating permit.

Applications for those permits just launched Monday. The processing time is about 30 days compared to the average of six months that it takes for the State Liquor Authority to process a liquor license.

The temporary operating permits allow business owners to manufacture and sell alcohol for up to six months while their liquor license is being approved. The permit can be extended for a three-month period if necessary.

Gov. Kathy Hochul said it’s part of her promise to make commonsense reforms to help businesses thrive.

Interested business owners can apply here.