Liquor Enforcement Division – Concord, NH

NH Liquor Commission Division of Enforcement and Licensing

The Division of Enforcement and Licensing, a branch of the New Hampshire Liquor Commission (NHLC), is headquartered at 50 Storrs Street in Concord. This state agency is the primary regulatory body responsible for enforcing New Hampshire’s alcohol and tobacco laws, specifically Title XIII and RSA 126-K. The Division’s sworn investigators possess full police powers and work diligently to ensure public safety by regulating the manufacture, distribution, and sale of alcoholic beverages throughout the state. They serve as a critical resource for ensuring compliance among licensees while working to reduce incidents of underage drinking and impaired driving.

Licensing and Compliance

One of the Division’s core functions is the issuance and management of liquor licenses for a wide variety of businesses, including restaurants, hotels, convenience stores, and direct shippers. The licensing team processes applications, conducts background checks, and ensures that all establishments meet the necessary legal requirements to operate. They also regulate tobacco retailers to prevent youth access to tobacco products. Business owners and managers rely on this office for guidance on state regulations, license renewals, and modifications to their premises or business operations.

Education and Training

The Division places a strong emphasis on education as a preventive measure. They offer the Total Education in Alcohol Management (TEAM) training program, designed to teach servers and sellers of alcohol how to identify fraudulent identification and prevent intoxication. These educational initiatives are vital for minimizing liability for businesses and promoting responsible service standards. The Division also conducts compliance checks and works with local communities to foster a culture of safety and responsibility regarding alcohol consumption.

• Issuance and renewal of state liquor and tobacco licenses.
• Enforcement of Title XIII alcohol beverage laws.
• Alcohol awareness and server training programs (TEAM).
• Investigation of liquor law violations and complaints.
• Regulation of direct shipping and carrier permits.