Board of License Commissioners

OVERVIEW

The State of Maryland empowers the Board of License Commissioners to administer and enforce the provisions of the Alcoholic Beverage Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland. The restrictions, regulations, provisions, and penalties contained in these laws are for the protection, health, welfare and safety of the people of Kent County and the State; and are carried out by the Kent County Board of License Commissioners.

The Board's responsibility is to regulate and control the sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages within Kent County. The Board and its employees will train and educate the alcohol beverage licensees and citizens in the importance of complying with all alcohol related laws, with an emphasis on reducing the availability of alcohol to persons under the age of 21.

BOARD RESPONSIBILITIES

The Board of License Commissioners, in accordance with the Maryland Alcoholic Beverage Articles, approves and issues alcoholic beverage licenses, regulates the retail sale of alcoholic beverages, and conducts hearings when a violation regarding the sale of alcoholic beverages is believed to have occurred.

The Board is further responsible for conducting inspections or investigations of licenses facilities to ensure compliance with all applicable state and county laws, rules and regulations.

BOARD STRUCTURE

The Kent County Board of License Commissioners consists of three members, those members are elected officials compromising the Kent County Commissioners.

Supporting staff to the Board shall include a full time Alcoholic Beverage Inspector and may employ a secretary, clerical and other assistants as are necessary. 

Kent County is Open for Business!

Welcome to Kent County, Maryland and thank you for considering our community to open or expand your business to include the responsible sale of alcoholic beverages.  County staff is available to guide you through each step of the application process and able to assist you in all stages of business start-up from financing to licensing. 

Applications for alcoholic beverage licenses are reviewed by the Board of License Commissioners. Licensed facilities must be in compliance with all applicable State and County regulations. The issuance of an alcoholic beverage license carries a tremendous responsibility and County staff is here to help you understand and adhere to those regulations. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns and we wish you success in your business.