Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC)

Bar* / Nightclub

  • The sale of alcoholic beverages for consumption off the premises is strictly prohibited.
  • Any graffiti painted or marked upon the premises or on any adjacent area under the control of the licensee(s) shall be removed or painted over within 48 hours of being applied.
  • No "happy hour" type of reduced price alcoholic beverage promotion shall be allowed.
  • Loitering is prohibited on or around these premises.
  • There shall be no exterior advertising or sign of any kind or type, including advertising directed to the exterior from within, promoting or indicating the availability of alcoholic beverages. Interior displays of alcoholic beverages or signs which are clearly visible to the exterior shall constitute a violation of this condition.
  • Petitioner(s) shall not require an admission charge or a cover charge, nor shall there be a requirement to purchase a minimum number of drinks.
  • No employee or agent shall solicit or accept any alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage from any customer while in the premises.
  • No person under the age of 21 shall sell or deliver alcoholic beverages.
  • No alcoholic beverages shall be consumed on any property adjacent to the licensed premises under the control of the licensee(s) as depicted on the ABC-257 dated___________________and ABC-253 dated_______________________.
  • The sale of alcoholic beverages shall be permitted only between the hours of 9:00 AM and 11:00 PM.
  • There shall be no coin operated games or video machines maintained upon the premises at any time.
  • No pool or billiard tables may be maintained on the premises.

Vista Municipal Code 18.02.125 defines a bar as an establishment in which sales of alcoholic beverages make up 25% or more of gross receipts. A Special Use Permit is required if sales of alcoholic beverages exceed 25% of gross receipts. Speak to a City Planner regarding the requirements of submitting a Special Use Permit application.

* In addition to the above, a bar would also have a condition prohibiting live entertainment of any time. The presence of live entertainment is the primary distinction between a bar and a nightclub.