A license is required to sell or serve 3.2-percent malt liquor or intoxicating liquor.
- Businesses within the city limits must apply for a liquor license to that city where it is located.
- Businesses outside the city limits must apply to Dakota County.
License holders must meet the requirements of 
County Ordinance 101 – Sale of Intoxicating Liquor and Minnesota Statute 340A.
How to apply
- Print the License Applicant Information Form and Certificate of Compliance with Minnesota Worker's Compensation (first-time applicants only), and fill them out.
- Print the application for the type of liquor license needed and fill it out.
- Gather the following application materials:
- Completed license application
- Completed license applicant information form
- Completed certificate of compliance with Minnesota Worker's Compensation form
- Certificate of insurance, if needed
- License fees
- Submit the application materials to:
Dakota County Public Services & Revenue
1590 Highway 55
Hastings, MN 55033
License fees can be paid with cash, check, or over the phone with a credit card.
Renewal applications
Renewals are mailed to license holders three months before it expires.
Approval & issuance
The Board of Commissioners approves applications for intoxicating and 3.2-percent malt liquor licenses. Applications are also reviewed by the Dakota County Sheriff's Office, Dakota County Attorney's Office, local township where the business is located, and the State of Minnesota.
If approved, the State of Minnesota issues the license.
Please allow 60 days to complete this process.
Alcohol & gambling enforcement
Please review additional rules and guidelines from the Alcohol Enforcement Unit on the state's Alcohol & Gambling Enforcement website.