Do You Need a Liquor Licence for a Private Event in Singapore?
This is the question hosts ask us most. The general answer for private gatherings in Singapore is reassuring, but the exceptions are worth understanding.
The general rule
Liquor licensing in Singapore applies to the sale and supply of alcohol in the course of business. When you serve drinks free of charge to your own invited guests at a private gathering, you are not selling alcohol, so no licence is required.
That covers the vast majority of what we do: home parties, condo function rooms, chalets, private studios and chartered yachts.
What changes the answer
Charging for drinks changes it — including indirectly, such as a ticket price that covers the bar or a cash bar at a public event. That is a sale, and it needs the appropriate licence held by the venue or operator.
Public or open-to-all events are different from private ones. If strangers can walk in, treat it as a commercial event and check with the venue.
Venue rules still apply
Separately from licensing, venues set their own rules on outside alcohol, corkage and serving hours. Condo management offices often have function room conditions, and marinas and charter operators may have their own restrictions on board.
Retail sale and public drinking hours are also regulated, so plan your shopping run and any outdoor elements accordingly.
How we handle it
We serve responsibly, refuse service to underage or intoxicated guests, and are happy to work within any conditions your venue imposes. If your event involves ticketing or any form of payment for drinks, tell us early and we will help you work out what the venue needs.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. For commercial or ticketed events, confirm requirements with your venue or the relevant authority.