Minnesota Brewery Seeks Approval for Important License

While many people may think that they have a lot of freedom when it comes to business endeavors in Minnesota, the truth is that there are a lot of laws and licensing requirements that businesses must comply with. Depending on the type of business, these requirements can include federal, state and local rules and regulations. Without regulatory compliance, businesses can be ruined before they even get off the ground.

One Minnesota company has been fighting hard to meet city and state regulations to expand. The Surly Brewing Company — known for its specialty brews — has worked hard to open a taproom in Prospect Park. The proposed taproom will feature a stage, beer hall, restaurant and event center in addition to a 40,000 square foot outdoor beer garden.

The fight started years ago when the company lobbied for changes at the state level. In that instance, Surly was able to change a state law so that breweries could open taprooms and sell pints to customers on site.

In the most recent case, Surly has worked to get the taproom license it needs to open the new venue. It received initial committee approval for the license early this month. During that vote, no one opposed the license. However, the company still needs final approval from the full city council before the license will be granted.

Regulatory compliance issues — such as obtaining the correct liquor or operating licenses — can be difficult for Minnesota residents to understand. These issues can be often business-type and location specific, making it difficult for people to know whether or not they are meeting the necessary requirements. This is important because violations can lead to serious consequences. Therefore, businesses should understand all the necessary requirements for them to legally operate within the state.

Source: Star Tribune, “Surly wins initial approval for taproom license,” Eric Roper, Nov. 4, 2014

Image Source: Star Tribune