LLB warns liquor outlets operating outside stipulated times
Brian Rungano Temba
The Liquor Licensing Board (LLB), as the regulatory and controlling authority of the liquor industry in Zimbabwe, has said it is concerned over the failure by some licenced liquor outlets to adhere to operating hours according to the terms of their licences.
They said this in a statement published yesterday.
The Board reminded Liquor operators that No Television, radio, amusement machine or any form of entertainment is allowed at a bottle store.
“To avoid any conflicts or legal repercussions, it is essential for liquor operators to understand and comply with the terms of their licenses. This includes operating within the specified hours and ensuring that no alcohol is consumed on the premises. The Board encourages members of the public who have any concerns about non-compliant liquor outlets to report them to the Board for appropriate action,” read the statement.
The LLB noted that the past months, the Board has observed that many liquor outlets are failing to adhere to stipulated operating hours.
“It is important to note that the Liquor Licencing Board takes these violations seriously and will not hesitate to take enforcement action against any liquor outlet found to be in contravention of the law. This may include revoking the license or imposing fines.
Bottle stores are strictly takeaway shops and do not allow for the consumption of alcohol on the premises,” further reads the statement.
In the statemnt the Board emphasised that Bars, beerhalls, restaurants, night clubs are sit-in establishments which allow for patrons to sit within the premises. Consumption of alcohol outside or in the vicinity of these establishment is not allowed.
“The board is also concerned over the sprouting of unlicensed outlets that have become hubs of illicit brews. The board will continue to work with law enforcement agents to ensure that culprits are arrested and prosecuted.
For avoidance of doubt, below are the days and operating hours for licenced outlets as stipulated in the SI 197 OF 2004
Holders of airport, bars and beerhall liquor licences operate any day between 10am to 11pm.
Holders of Bottle store and wine producers liquor licences operate from 8am to 8pm.
Holders of hotel and club liquor licences operate any day between 10.30am to 11pm and 11.30pm on a Sunday (for Hotels).
Holders of nightclub liquor licences operate any day other than Sunday between 8pm to 3am and till midnight on an Sunday.
Holders of passenger vehicle liquor licences operate any between 10am to 10pm.
Holders of ordinary restaurant liquor licences operate any day between 11am to 3pm and 6pm to 11am.
Holders of special restaurant liquor licences operate any day between 11am to 3pm and 4pm to 11.30pm.
Holders of theatre club liquor licences operate any day between 10am and midnight.
Holders of theatre liquor licences operate any day between 5pm and 11pm.
Holders of special bottle liquor licences operate any day between 8am and 9pm.
Holders of ocassional extended liquor licences operate any day other than Sunday between 11pm to 2.30am the following day, and 10.30pm to 2.30pm the following day on a Sunday.
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