NH Liquor Commission Office – Concord, NH

Regulating Alcohol Sales and Licensing

The New Hampshire Liquor Commission (NHLC) maintains its administrative headquarters and the Division of Enforcement and Licensing at 50 Storrs Street in Concord. Established in 1934 following the repeal of Prohibition, this state agency acts as the primary regulatory body for the manufacture, sale, and distribution of alcoholic beverages in New Hampshire. The commission operates under a control state model, balancing revenue generation for the state’s general fund with the responsibility of enforcing liquor laws and promoting public safety .

Licensing and Enforcement

The Division of Enforcement and Licensing, housed at this location, is the central hub for all liquor licensing matters. Business owners seeking to sell alcohol—whether at a restaurant, grocery store, or special event—must apply for and maintain their licenses here. The division is staffed by sworn investigators who ensure compliance with Title XIII regulations, conducting inspections and educational outreach to prevent sales to minors and intoxicated individuals . They also handle the licensure of direct shippers and beverage manufacturers.

Administration and Operations

While the NHLC is well-known for its retail Liquor and Wine Outlets, the Storrs Street facility serves as the operational backbone. It houses the Division of Administrative Services, which manages human resources, finance, and information technology for the commission. The Division of Marketing, Merchandising, and Warehousing coordinates the procurement of spirits and wines, overseeing the inventory that stocks the state’s retail network . Visitors to the headquarters generally come for licensing purposes, hearings, or administrative meetings rather than retail purchases, although an outlet store is co-located on the premises.

• Licensing: Applications for restaurants, retail stores, and events.
• Enforcement: Compliance checks, education, and violation investigations.
• Administration: Human resources, finance, and executive leadership.
• Hearings: Adjudication of liquor law violations and appeals.