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What to Know About Coastal ABC III in South Carolina

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

Coastal ABC III is the regional alcohol beverage control board for Horry County

Coastal ABC III is the local authority that regulates the sale and distribution of beer, wine, and spirits in Horry County, which includes Myrtle Beach and the surrounding coastal communities. It operates as an independent agency separate from the state ABC Commission, meaning it sets its own policies within state law and manages licenses for retailers, restaurants, and bars in its territory.

The board exists because South Carolina allows individual counties to establish their own ABC systems rather than operate under a single statewide model. Coastal ABC III handles everything from issuing licenses to investigating complaints about how alcohol is sold and served in the county.

Key Takeaways

  • Coastal ABC III issues and renews licenses for businesses that sell beer, wine, and spirits in Horry County, including retail stores, restaurants, and bars.
  • The board enforces state and local alcohol laws, including age verification requirements and hours of operation rules specific to Horry County.
  • Businesses must meet specific requirements and pay fees to obtain a license, and renewal happens on a set schedule each year.
  • You can contact Coastal ABC III directly to report violations, ask about licensing rules, or learn what permits a particular business holds.

How Coastal ABC III Issues and Renews Licenses

Any business in Horry County that wants to sell beer, wine, or spirits must obtain a license from Coastal ABC III. This includes package stores (where you buy bottles to take home), restaurants and bars that serve alcohol by the drink, and hotels or other establishments with on-premises sales.

The licensing process requires the business owner to submit an application, pay a fee, and meet local requirements—which may include zoning approval, a clean criminal record, and proof of ownership or lease of the property. Coastal ABC III reviews each application and either approves or denies it based on whether the applicant meets the standards.

Licenses must be renewed annually. The board sets renewal dates and fees, which vary depending on the type of license and the nature of the business. A package store license costs differently than a restaurant license, for example.

What Rules Coastal ABC III Enforces

Coastal ABC III enforces both state alcohol laws and rules specific to Horry County. State law sets the minimum drinking age at 21 and prohibits sales to visibly intoxicated people. Horry County may add its own rules about hours of operation, how alcohol can be displayed, or where certain types of licenses can be located.

The board investigates complaints about violations—such as a store selling to minors, a bar serving after hours, or a business operating without a valid license. If a violation is found, Coastal ABC III can issue warnings, fines, or suspend or revoke a license.

Businesses are required to train staff on age verification and responsible service. Coastal ABC III may conduct inspections or require proof of training as part of the licensing and renewal process.

How to Find Out What a Business Is Licensed to Sell

The type of license a business holds determines what it can legally sell. A beer and wine license allows sales of beer and wine only, while a liquor license permits the sale of spirits as well. Some licenses are for off-premises sales (package stores), while others are for on-premises consumption (bars and restaurants).

You can contact Coastal ABC III directly to ask what license a specific business holds or to verify whether a business is currently licensed. This information is public record. The board's office can provide details about a business's license type, renewal status, and any violations on record.

Reporting a Violation to Coastal ABC III

If you witness a violation—such as a store selling alcohol to a minor, a bar serving someone who is visibly intoxicated, or a business operating without proper hours—you can report it to Coastal ABC III. The board investigates complaints and takes action when violations are confirmed.

To file a complaint, contact Coastal ABC III directly with details about what you observed, the business name, location, and date and time if possible. The board keeps complaints confidential and will investigate based on the information provided.

Coastal ABC III's Role in the Broader South Carolina System

South Carolina has a unique alcohol regulatory structure: some counties operate under the state ABC Commission, while others, like Horry County, run independent systems. Coastal ABC III operates within state law but has local control over licensing decisions and enforcement.

This means that rules and fees in Horry County may differ from neighboring counties or other parts of South Carolina. If you are moving to or doing business in the area, it is worth checking with Coastal ABC III about local requirements rather than assuming state rules apply uniformly.

Contact and Resources for Coastal ABC III

Coastal ABC III's office is located in Horry County and handles all licensing, renewal, and complaint inquiries. You can reach the board to ask questions about obtaining a license, renewing an existing one, reporting a violation, or verifying a business's license status.

The board's staff can explain the application process, answer questions about fees and requirements, and provide information about local alcohol laws. Having the business name and location ready when you call will help the staff assist you more quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a license from Coastal ABC III cost?

License fees vary depending on the type of license and the nature of the business. A package store license costs differently than a restaurant or bar license. Contact Coastal ABC III directly for current fee schedules, as they may change annually.

Can I sell beer and wine without a spirits license?

Yes. Coastal ABC III issues different types of licenses. A beer and wine license allows you to sell only those products, while a liquor license permits spirits as well. The type you need depends on what you plan to sell.

What happens if a business violates alcohol laws?

Coastal ABC III investigates violations and can issue warnings, fines, or suspend or revoke a license depending on the severity. Serious violations, such as selling to minors, typically result in stronger penalties than minor infractions.

How do I report a business that is selling alcohol illegally?

Contact Coastal ABC III with the business name, location, and details about what you observed. Include the date and time if possible. The board will investigate and take appropriate action.

Do I need a license to serve alcohol at a private event?

Rules about private events vary. Contact Coastal ABC III to ask about your specific situation—whether you are hosting at home, renting a venue, or organizing a catered event. Some situations may require a temporary permit or special license.