The Act and
Regulations bring about a number of changes regarding applications relating to
liquor licences and the operation of liquor licenced premises in KZN.
Application
for new liquor licences
Additional
requirements for applications for new liquor licences include BEE certificates,
SAPS clearances, tax clearances and a detailed security plan.
The
detailed motivation required must address the need for a liquor outlet in the
area, the social economic impact of a liquor outlet, the capability of the applicant
to run the outlet and the social responsibility program proposed by the
applicant.
The Act
contains detailed requirements regarding the publication of new applications
including news paper advertisements and the placement of a notice board on the proposed
premises.
Major
changes for supermarkets
One of the
more controversial changes brought about by the regulations are the special
conditions for supermarkets selling wine.
In terms of
these conditions the area where wine is sold must be a separate and enclosed
area with a single entry and exit point.
It must
have a separate till point and no minors will be allowed in this area.
According
to Danie Cronje, the Director of Liquor Law Services at Cluver Markotter
Incorporated, this requirement will cause problems for customers and retailers
as customers will not be prepared to leave their children outside the area when
going in to select and purchase wine.
According
to Cronje representations pointing out this problem were submitted on behalf of
supermarkets when the regulations were published for public comment but the
comments evidently did not persuade the KZN legislature.
Retailers
will be granted one year in which to comply with the requirements regarding the
special conditions for retail stores.
Special
event permits
The
requirements for special events permits are also quite extensive.
Special
events permits are also going to be much more expensive.
The application fee is R1000 and the fee per day, a further R1000.
Renewal
of licences
When
renewing a licence a tax clearance certificate and police clearance certificate
will now also be required.
Annual licence fees have also been increased. Those for liquor stores and supermarkets will be R4800 per year and those for restaurants will be R2400 per year.