The Alcoholic Beverage Control Appeals Board has launched a new online platform to intake appeals on its website. The optional online form is mobile-friendly and files a Notice of Appeal with the Board electronically when completed. Traditional options for filing an appeal are still available.
“Over the years, our board has been committed to making the appeals process more accessible, transparent, and straightforward for everyone, not just those familiar with legal systems. The new online form is a natural extension of that work, giving people a simpler, more convenient way to file,” said Megan McGuinness, chairperson of the ABC Appeals Board.
The Alcoholic Beverage Control Appeals Board is an entirely separate entity from the Department of ABC (ABC). They provide quasi-judicial administrative review of ABC decisions regarding issuing alcoholic beverage licenses, license conditions, protests against a license, and violations of law by a licensee. Common appeals heard by the board involve licensees selling alcohol to minors, drug sales by a licensee, and protests against the issuance of licenses involving noise ordinances or other community concerns.
If a licensee receives a final decision from ABC, they may have a right to appeal with the Alcoholic Beverage Control Appeals Board. The board hears appeals at their scheduled board meetings and decides matters based upon a review of the record, legal briefs, and oral argument.
The ABC Appeals Board’s website hosts helpful information on filing an appeal, as well as guides, forms, videos, and informational materials translated into several languages.
Contact the board with questions on the appeals process or filing procedures at:
(916) 445-4005 or Abcboard@abcappeals.ca.gov