TABC Compliance for Brewery Facility Build-Outs
Premises diagrams, label approvals, and the regulatory checkpoints that determine whether a Texas brewery opens on schedule.
TABC sets the schedule, not the GC
Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission permitting is the longest-pole item on most brewery construction schedules. The Brewer's Permit (BW) requires a federal TTB Brewer's Notice as a prerequisite, and TTB review now runs 90–150 days. Build the regulatory critical path into the construction schedule on day one.
The premises diagram
TABC requires a premises diagram showing fixed equipment locations, bonded areas, and the boundary between manufacturing and consumption areas. Changes to fixed equipment after permit issuance require an amended diagram and re-inspection. Lock the brewhouse, cellar, and taproom geometry before permit submission.
Bonded area and segregation
Federal TTB rules require a clearly defined bonded brewery area with controlled access. Most Texas breweries use a physical barrier — railing, low wall, or partition — to separate the bonded production area from public-access taproom space.
Inspection sequence
- TTB Brewer's Notice approval (90–150 days).
- TABC application submission with premises diagram.
- Local fire marshal sign-off, certificate of occupancy.
- TABC inspection — typically scheduled 2–4 weeks after CO.
- First batch brew permitted only after TABC issues the BW.
Compliance specialists
The Texas Brewers Guild publishes guidance and connects operators with consultants who specialize in TABC and TTB workflow. See our resources page for direct links.
