Advisory 24-006: Inspections of License and Permit Holders/Premises
What you need to know
The Maryland Alcohol, Tobacco, and Cannabis Commission (ATCC) conducts announced and unannounced inspections of licensed and permitted businesses to support compliance through education and proactive oversight. Inspections may include a review of records and licensed or permitted areas of a business.
ATCC may conduct announced or unannounced inspections
Inspections apply to licensed and permitted businesses
Businesses must provide requested records
Inspections began January 22, 2024
Who this applies to
This advisory applies to licensed and permitted alcohol businesses, including:
Manufacturers
Wholesalers
Caterers
Other licensed or permitted entities regulated by ATCC
What changed
ATCC's Office of the Executive Director (OED) Trade Practices Unit announced that it would begin conducting both announced and unannounced inspections of licensed and permitted businesses. The purpose is to encourage compliance through education and proactive efforts.
Requirements / process / rules
As a condition of holding a license or permit, businesses must comply with applicable Maryland laws, regulations, and local requirements related to their license or permit. Businesses must also allow authorized OED employees to:
Inspect licensed or permitted areas
Review required records
Examine compliance with applicable laws and regulations
Records that may be reviewed
License and permit holders should be prepared to provide complete and accurate records related to alcoholic beverages and tobacco products, including records involving:
Purchases
Sales
Manufacturing
Rectifying
Blending
Brewing
Fermenting
Distilling
Production
Storage
Warehousing
Withdrawals from storage
Imports
Transfers
Effective date
The OED began conducting these inspections on January 22, 2024.
What this means for businesses
Businesses should:
Keep records complete and up to date
Ensure records are organized and accessible
Be prepared for announced or unannounced inspections
Confirm licensed or permitted areas are compliant with applicable requirements
Respond promptly to requests from authorized ATCC staff
Need help?
Questions about inspections or trade practices requirements can be directed to the OED Trade Practices Unit:
Email: [email protected]