Harford County Liquor Control Board

Harford County Liquor Control Board The Harford County Liquor Control Board is responsible for regulating the sale of alcoholic beverages by licensed retailers in Harford County, Maryland

12/20/2025

*****Notice of Holiday Closure for the HCLCB:*****

In an effort to allow our Board and Staff members to spend quality time with their families during the up-coming Holiday (Christmas) season, the following modified office hours will be in effect:

Wednesday, 12.24.2025, (Christmas eve) the Office will close at NOON (12 pm)
Thursday, 12.25.2025, (Christmas Day) CLOSED
Friday, 12.26.2025, CLOSED

The Office will return to regular operating hours (8:30 am to 4:30 pm) on Monday, 12.29.2025.

Further notice of office hours for New Year's will be posted next week.

On behalf of the HCLCB members and Staff we wish everyone Happy Holidays, a Merry Christmas and a Healthy and Happy New Year!

Authority:
W. M. Crabbs - GM
🎄😊

12/20/2025

Notice of General Manager position opening after January 01, 2026.
See the below job description.

GENERAL MANAGER
DETAILED JOB DESCRIPTION

NATURE OF WORK

This is a position of an advanced, highly responsible professional level of business administrative and managerial support work for the Liquor Control Board. The General Manager (GM) independently plans and organizes assignments, selecting the appropriate method and procedure for accomplishment of same. The complexity of this position is marked by the multiple roles of the position, i.e., problem-solving, planning, organizing, decision making, the department’s organization, mission, and purpose. The GM exercises independent judgment, albeit without deviation from established policy.

The position requires a knowledge of the Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis (ABC) Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, modern office practices, procedures, and techniques. Also required is a knowledge of record keeping and inspection duties. The GM must have the ability to explain procedures and policies which are used by the Board, etc. The position carries the responsibility of planning, directing, coordinating and/or supervising a variety of support functions that are essential to the efficient operation of the Liquor Control Board.

The GM must also be able to function as a receptionist, secretary, retirement coordinator and/or an inspector to assist the Board and/or office with any duties that become necessary. The GM has personal contact with and interacts with the Board, Board Attorney, employees, Harford County Delegates, various local and state Agencies, Public Officials, Applicants, License Holders, their Attorneys, community members, etc. The GM works with a considerable degree of independence, subject only to restrictions as set down by the Board’s departmental policy. Work is primarily performed in a typical office setting, but can require work outside the office for inspections, meetings, training, etc.

RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES

The GM must be familiar with the legislative process and is required to work with the delegation and/or legislative drafters on proposed law changes. As part of that process, the GM’s duties include keeping abreast of the Alcoholic Beverage Laws and must be able to provide correct information relative to the obtaining of an alcoholic beverage license, be able to explain the various applications, procedures, qualifications, and eligibility requirements. Additionally, the GM is tasked with researching the Alcoholic Beverages Code/Article, drafting and preparing Rules and Regulations for adoption by the Board and, at times, assists with the drafting of Legislation.

The GM provides information to Board regarding administrative practices, procedures or policies and advises them of applicable laws, rules, or regulations.

DETAILED JOB DESCRIPTION – GENERAL MANAGER CONTINUED

The GM’s duties include interviewing potential applicants for employment, and orientation for new employees. The GM is responsible for locating and coordinating training for the supervising administrative staff and inspectors and the Board. The GM maintains security of all employee records including Retirement, Health Insurance, and Benefits records. The GM acts in the capacity of Human Resources Director and Human Relations Director.

The GM is obligated to attend court appearances as required to testify regarding any issues related to license holders.

On a daily basis, the GM establishes work priorities, exercises independent judgment in making decisions which are based on precedents and/or policy guidelines.

The GM prepares all show/cause and decision letters as needed regarding alleged violations for review by legal counsel. Prepares all agenda items for presentation at the meetings to the Board. Composes correspondence, including the approval of all correspondence to licensees prior to its distribution. The GM also reviews other various correspondence as needed.

The GM coordinates the office calendar regarding appointments, hearings, fines due, suspensions, and all Board meetings.

The GM is required to be familiar with the Per Diem License processes, and reviews all per diem applications and presents them to the Board for approval. Works with administrative staff to process applications, including meeting with applicants as needed, and reviewing of any questionable per diem applications for any further action required by the applicant, (i.e., discussion with the Board and/or Board Attorney and Chief Inspector).

The GM is familiar with and assists with New/Transfer and Supplemental application processes as needed. Provides explanations of the application process and appropriate sections of the laws and Board Rules, answers any questions, and advises the appropriate submission of forms/paperwork necessary to complete the process. The GM works with administrative staff to process application-related paperwork. The GM also meets with applicants as needed, ensuring they understand the process and documentation/forms required to complete them. This includes checking the submitted documentation/forms for completeness and accuracy in their entirety. This process includes review of the information contained in each individual application. These processes often include a review of corporate documents, leases, financial documents, etc. The GM can provide an estimated timeframe to the applicant for the Board’s review and approval of the application(s). The GM ensures the administrative staff obtains all required notices, approvals, releases, postings, and hearings are received and/or managed in a timely and efficient manner.

The GM assists with the annual License Renewal process. This includes review of Renewal forms for any necessary changes and ensuring required notices are submitted timely. The GM assists administrative staff in the processing of Renewal applications as needed, including the review of applications to ensure all of the information is accurate and complete, in comparison to existing Board records, and that all required approvals, releases, and payments have been received.

DETAILED JOB DESCRIPTION – GENERAL MANAGER CONTINUED

The GM must be familiar with the Board’s financial and accounting procedures. Assist Board accountant with preparation for and participation in the annual audit; preparation of the annual budget; and review and approve invoices for payment.

The GM functions as purchasing agent for the Board, including being responsible for purchase of all office equipment.

This position may include attending various state meetings and/or training sessions and the need to make presentations on behalf of the Board. Fulfill other appointments, as necessary.

The GM will use the Board’s database program to maintain licensee information and track contact with license holders.

The GM prepares and presents information for Board Meeting (i.e., reports, Letters, etc.). Reviews final copy of Board Minutes.

The GM is responsible for directing and working with Inspectors, at times participating in actual inspections or investigations. Receive and review complaints and inspection reports and make recommendations for resolving these inquiries or complaints. Prepare show/cause letters and schedule hearings for alleged violations in a timely manner. Review all timecards, route sheets, schedules, calendars, reports.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

The General Manager must have working knowledge of business administration, secretarial skills and bookkeeping or accounting principles; considerable knowledge of currently acceptable office practices and standard record maintenance procedures; ability to interpret and present facts to the Board and/or Court; ability to interpret and apply a variety of laws, rules, regulations, standards, and procedures. Must be independent and flexible, assuming duties, as necessary. Must be available during emergencies to perform any duties required.

The GM should have the ability to use various standard office equipment and be proficient with Microsoft Office and QuickBooks software.

The GM must have the ability to be impartial and to deal diplomatically with the public. Must communicate effectively, in both oral and written form.

The GM must be able to prepare and present clear and concise reports; to maintain involved and complex records, to work independently on difficult tasks; to make decisions in accordance with laws, rules, and regulations; and, to compose effective correspondence.

The GM must be able to exercise initiative and sound judgment; to train, coordinate and supervise the work of both clerical staff and inspectors; and, to make proper disposition of problems.

The GM performs other duties as assigned by the Board.

****Interested individuals can apply by submitting a resume outlining their experience as it applies to the duties outlined in the above job description.
Candidates are required to include their contact information in the resume.
Interviews for the position will be scheduled after January 1, 2026, at the Board office unless specified elsewhere.
Resumes can be submitted to the Harford County Liquor Control Board at 16 N. Main Street, Bel Air, Md 21014.

Questions pertaining to this posting can be directed to the HCLCB Staff at 410-638-3028.

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12/02/2025

PUBLIC NOTICE:
HARFORD COUNTY (MD) LIQUOR CONTROL BOARD
PROPOSED LEGISLATION – 2026
ADDITION TO TITLE 22. SUBTITLE 26. ENFORCEMENT
2604. SERVICE OF SUMMONS
2604.1 SUBPOENA RECORDS

Purpose: Currently Section 6-204, which applies to all licensing boards, gives the HCLCB the ability to summons witnesses for hearings. However, the HCLCB currently has no statutory authority to subpoena records from its licensees. Numerous other jurisdictions have the ability to subpoena records including Baltimore County, Cecil County, Carroll, Frederick, Garrett, Wicomico, Worcester, PG County, Howard, Anne Arundel and Baltimore City. The proposed statute for the HCLCB is patterned after Anne Arundel County and Baltimore City’s statutes that address the collection of fees.

The proposed statutory reference is proposed to be placed after the statute “service of summons” which allows the Board inspector to serve a summons in addition to the Sheriff.

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES
DIVISION II. PROVISIONS AFFECTING INDIVIDUAL JURISDICTIONS
TITLE 22. HARFORD COUNTY SUBTITLE 26. ENFORCEMENT
2604 SERVICE OF SUMMONS

§ 22-2604.1 - AUTHORITY OF BOARD TO SUBPOENA RECORDS

(a) THE BOARD MAY ISSUE A SUBPOENA COMPELLING THE PRODUCTION OF RECORDS PERTAINING TO A LICENSED ESTABLISHMENT. THE ISSUANCE OF A SUBPOENA FOR RECORDS IS RESERVED SOLELY FOR THE BOARD. SUBPOENAS FOR RECORDS WILL NOT BE ISSUED AT THE REQUEST OF A LICENSEE, PROSPECTIVE LICENSEE OR ANY OTHER THIRD PARTY, UNLESS THE BOARD ELECTS TO ADOPT SUCH REQUEST AS ITS OWN

(b) (1) THE BOARD MAY PETITION THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR AN ORDER TO COMPEL PRODUCTION IF A PERSON REFUSES TO PRODUCE A SUBPOENAED RECORD.

(2) IF, AFTER THE ENTRY OF AN ORDER TO COMPEL, THE PERSON FAILS, OR REFUSES, TO PROVIDE RECORDS, OR OTHERWISE, COMPLY WITH THE SUBPOENA THE COURT MAY PROCEED BY ATTACHMENT AGAINST THE PERSON AS IF THE REFUSAL HAD BEEN BY A PERSON SUMMONED TO APPEAR IN A CASE PENDING BEFORE THE COURT.

(c) (1) THE BOARD SHALL CHARGE FEES FOR THE PRODUCTION AND SERVICE OF A SUMMONS AS WELL AS PURSUIT OF THE RELIEF SET FORTH IN SECTION 22-2604.1(b).

(2) THE FEES MAY BE ASSESSED ONLY AGAINST A LICENSE HOLDER OR PARTY WHOM THE BOARD HAS ADJUDICATED RESPONSIBLE FOR A VIOLATION OF A LAW CONCERNING ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES.

(3) THE FEES ARE:
(I) $25, FOR THE PRODUCTION OF A SUMMONS BY THE BOARD;
(II) AND $30, FOR EACH ADDRESS IF THE SERVICE IS BY AN INVESTIGATOR/INSPECTOR EMPLOYED BY THE BOARD.
(III) IF THE BOARD IS REQUIRED TO PURSUE AN ACTION TO COMPEL PRODUCTION UNDER SUBSECTION (b) OF THIS STATUTE, IT SHALL BE ENTITLED TO AN AWARD OF REASONABLE COUNSEL FEES AGAINST THE RESPONSIBLE PARTY/LICENSEE IF THE ORDER TO COMPEL IS GRANTED.

(4) IN ADDITION TO OTHER FINES, PENALTIES, OR COSTS THAT MAY BE IMPOSED, THE BOARD MAY ALSO IMPOSE COSTS OF $100 AGAINST A LICENSE HOLDER OR PARTY WHOM THE BOARD HAS FOUND TO HAVE VIOLATED A LAW CONCERNING ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES.

POSTED:
Authority, Wayne Goddard, HCLCB Chair
WMC, GM

Public Notice: The Harford County Liquor Control Board will hold a public hearing to discuss proposed legislation for th...
11/17/2025

Public Notice:
The Harford County Liquor Control Board will hold a public hearing to discuss proposed legislation for the 2026 Legislative Session.
As a reminder the meeting is open to the public as required under Maryland's Open meetings Act.

DATE: December 3, 2025
TIME: 1:00 p.m.
LOCATION: Bel Air Town Hall
"Rotunda Room"
39 N. Hickory Avenue
Bel, Air, MD 21014
A preview of the proposed legislation to be discussed will be posted on the Board’s website at www.hclcb.org in the near future.

It is the policy of the State of Maryland that it is necessary to regulate and control the storage, sale and distribution of alcohol beverages. Maryland State Law, as written in the Alcoholic Beverages (AB) Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, empowers local boards of license commissioners an...

To All Alcohol Beverage License Holders in Harford County, Maryland:The Harford County Liquor Control Board has issued a...
07/28/2025

To All Alcohol Beverage License Holders in Harford County, Maryland:

The Harford County Liquor Control Board has issued a Public Notice regarding “New Requirements for Hearing Notices” in Harford County.

https://hclcb.org/content/new-requirements-hearing-notices-effective-immediately

Please read the notice in its entirety.

This notice is issued pursuant to House Bill 754 with new amendments regarding Section 4-208 and 22-1505 (a)(1-2) and (c)(1) of the Annotated Code of Maryland Alcoholic Beverages & Cannabis Article which took effect July 1, 2025.

Authority:

Wayne Goddard, Chair, HCLCB,

MC:GM

Web Site Disclaimer  - The Harford County Liquor Control Board website (HCLCB.ORG) is provided for informational purposes.  While the information is intended to be accurate, please do not rely on its accuracy without confirming that information with a representative of the Harford County Liquor Co...

PUBLIC NOTICE: HCLCB Updated Rules and Regulations and changes to Maryland's Alcohol Beverage Code(s) pertaining to Alco...
07/28/2025

PUBLIC NOTICE:

HCLCB Updated Rules and Regulations and changes to Maryland's Alcohol Beverage Code(s) pertaining to Alcohol Beverage Licenses issued in Harford County, Maryland.

EFFECTIVE DATE: September 1, 2025.

The below link will direct you to the updated HCLCB Rules and Regulations and Alcohol Beverage Beverage Codes related to Harford County.

On November 6, 2024, the Harford County Liquor Control Board held a public hearing concerning the adoption of proposed additions and/or amendments to its Rules & Regulations.

These changes were approved by the Board at the conclusion of the public hearing.

The updated version is posted on the HCLCB website.

Please note that this new version will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Current Alcohol Beverage license holders as well as all future license applicants (in Harford County) are required and expected to abide by the updated Rules and Regulations and Alcohol Beverage Codes on the aforementioned effective date.

Questions can be directed to the HCLCB Office Staff, by email or phone during regular business hours.

LINK:
https://hclcb.org/content/rules-regulations-effective-912025

Authority:
The Harford County Liquor Control Board,
Wayne Goddard, Chair

Posted by: WMC, GM

Web Site Disclaimer  - The Harford County Liquor Control Board website (HCLCB.ORG) is provided for informational purposes.  While the information is intended to be accurate, please do not rely on its accuracy without confirming that information with a representative of the Harford County Liquor Co...

PRESS RELEASE: HCLCB 07.24.2025Liquor Control Board for Harford County, Maryland16 North Main StreetBel Air, Maryland 21...
07/24/2025

PRESS RELEASE: HCLCB 07.24.2025
Liquor Control Board for Harford County, Maryland
16 North Main Street
Bel Air, Maryland 21014-3780
410-638-3028 ● Fax 410-638-4970
www.hclcb.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 24, 2025
Re: Explore Jerky, Inc. t/a Fallston Barrel House

On Wednesday, July 23, 2025, the Harford County Liquor Control Board conducted a show cause hearing related to charges against Explore Jerky Inc. t/a the Fallston Barrel House for violations related to their catering privilege under their Class BNR alcoholic beverages license.

After review of the evidence that included testimony from the Board inspector as well as the licensee, the Board found the licensee in violation of various charges including failure to maintain records, making false statements to the Board or its representatives, failure to cooperate with government agencies, failure to disclose and report the identity of a person with a financial interest in the sale of alcoholic beverages, failure to provide both food and alcoholic beverages for a catered event and storing alcoholic beverages at a location not part of the licensee’s premises. As a result of the findings, the Board levied fines totaling $11,100 as well as imposed a 90 day suspension of the alcoholic beverage license.

Board Chair Wayne Goddard stated “[t]he Board’s decision reflects our commitment to protecting members of the community from unsafe and unregulated establishments, as well as to create a level playing field for those licensees who worked hard to start and maintain law abiding establishments, by upholding the rules and regulations governing the sale of alcoholic beverages.” Chair Goddard went on to state that “the Board feels that the establishment of a bar/restaurant at the North Bay Marina was a great idea, and well received by many in the community, but the lawless way the licensee and his business partners attempted to accomplish this goal was astonishing.”

The evidence showed that the licensee had been illegally and improperly using the catering privilege under its Class BNR alcoholic beverage license at the newly renovated North Bay Marina and Shipwrecked Dock Bar located in Joppa. The penalties imposed by the Board are a reminder to alcoholic beverage license holders to be familiar with, and abide by, the Rules and Regulations of the Harford County Liquor Board and the State of Maryland.

The Board is committed to ensuring the responsible sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages within Harford County while at the same time being fair and accommodating to entrepreneurs who desire to start and operate new ventures.

This Press Release can also be located on the HCLCB website, at
www.hclcb.org

Posted Authority: Wayne Goddard, HCLCB - Chair,
WMC-GM

It is the policy of the State of Maryland that it is necessary to regulate and control the storage, sale and distribution of alcohol beverages. Maryland State Law, as written in the Alcoholic Beverages (AB) Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, empowers local boards of license commissioners an...

06/26/2025

BREAKING NEWS!

Miraculously the AC unit has been repaired!

The HCLCB Office is now back open for business during our regular business hours!

Thank you,
WM Crabbs GM

06/26/2025

NOTICE OF TEMPORARY EMERGENCY CLOSURE of HCLCB OFFICE:

Late yesterday it was discovered that the HCLCB Office’s HVAC unit in not functioning and will require service.

As the current weather forecast for our area includes excessive heat, humidity and unhealthy air quality, the Office will be temporarily CLOSED today, June 26, 2025.

Updates will be posted when available.

Please be safe during the current heat wave!

Thank you,
W.M. Crabbs, GM

NOTICE OF OFFICE CLOSURE - Monday, May 26, 2025:The HCLCB Office will be closed on Monday, May 26, 2025, in observance o...
05/23/2025

NOTICE OF OFFICE CLOSURE - Monday, May 26, 2025:

The HCLCB Office will be closed on Monday, May 26, 2025, in observance of Memorial Day.

As we celebrate this day with our families and friends, please remember the true meaning of this day of reflection and honor those who served and paid the ultimate sacrifice as well as those who are now serving to maintain the freedoms our society holds dear.

To those who continue to serve “thank you for your service,” to those families who have lost loved ones protecting our freedoms, we will remain forever grateful.

The HCLCB office will reopen on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at its regular times.

On behalf of the HCLCB, with respect and gratitude,

W. M. Crabbs
General Manager,

04/21/2025

ATTENTION: To All License Holders issued by the Harford County Liquor Control Board:

The final stage of the 2025 Renewal Season has begun. Licenses for the 2025-26 License Year will be available for pickup between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on the following dates:

Thursday – April 24, 2025 Monday – April 28, 2025
Friday – April 25, 2025 Tuesday – April 29, 2025
Wednesday – April 30, 2025

You may pick your license up if:

• You have no outstanding tax holds, and/or corrections to be made, or paperwork missing;
• Your corporation or limited liability company is in good standing with the State of Maryland;
• Valid Alcohol Awareness Training Certificates for all trained employees are on file; and
• A valid Worker’s Compensation Insurance Certificate (Form ACORD 25, from your insurance carrier) is on file.

If you have not already done do, your annual license fee must be paid at the time the license is picked up. Checks may be made payable to the Liquor Control Board. Please have your check ready and signed beforehand. Prepaid licenses must still be picked up at the Board Office.

If you have any questions regarding outstanding items or annual license fee amounts, please contact the Board office.

Judith A. Powell
Licensing Coordinator
Harford County Liquor Control Board
16 North Main Street
Bel Air, MD 21014
410-638-3028
[email protected]

PUBLIC NOTICE:*The Harford County Liquor Control Board (HCLCB) votes to make changes to  the $250,000 CAPITAL INVESTMENT...
02/20/2025

PUBLIC NOTICE:
*The Harford County Liquor Control Board (HCLCB) votes to make changes to the $250,000 CAPITAL INVESTMENT REQUIREMENT EXPENSES (list of items) FOR BNR LICENSES!

(*see Md. Code Ann. Alcoholic Bev. & Cannabis 22-906(c)(1), et. seq.*)

During the public meeting on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, the HCLCB reviewed and updated the Boards list of expenses/items for the "$250,000 Capital Investment" requirement when applying for a BNR License in Harford County.

The Commissioners present at the meeting, reviewed the list of acceptable and non-acceptable items and voted to make adjustments to the list.

Those wishing to obtain a copy of the updated expense list of items can do so by visiting the HCLCB website at www.hclcb.org .

The new requirements/list are effective as of February 12, 2025.

Authority: Wayne Goddard, Chair, HCLCB

It is the policy of the State of Maryland that it is necessary to regulate and control the storage, sale and distribution of alcohol beverages. Maryland State Law, as written in the Alcoholic Beverages (AB) Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, empowers local boards of license commissioners an...

Address

16 N Main Street
Bel Air, MD
21014

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm

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