A nonprofit organization selling donated or purchased alcohol at a special event is required to obtain a Daily License from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. Click to apply for or learn more about the ABC Daily License. The alcohol may be sold by the glass or included in a door charge or other donation; it cannot be given away free.
A winery or brewery may assist in pouring alcohol outside of their premises only if a nonprofit organization sponsors the event and obtains a Daily License.
A private person hosting a special event does not need to obtain a Daily License, as long as the event is not open to the public, the alcohol and the event admission are free, and the premises are not a restaurant, bar, winery, or brewery (23399.1 B&P Code).
Sponsoring organizations are responsible for the conduct of the special event. Contact the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (707) 576-2165 for further information.