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Licenses & Permits

Learn how to apply for a fireworks permit and tobacco, beer, and liquor licenses in Winnebago County.

Tobacco License

For businesses located in the unincorporated areas of Winnebago County seeking to apply for a retail Tobacco License. Click the link below to download the pdf application for Tobacco License.  After completing the license application you must mail the completed form along with payment to the Winnebago County Auditor's Office, 126 S. Clark St., Forest City, IA 50436. Completed applications will be reviewed and considered by the Winnebago County Board of Supervisors in a public meeting. Contact the Winnebago County Auditor's Office with any further questions regarding the submittal of a Tobacco License application.

License Application

Beer and Liquor License

The Department of Alcoholic Beverages Division (ABD) requires filing of all new and renewal applications for beer permits, liquor licenses, and corresponding payments be completed online. Please have your application filed on-line with ABD no later than fifteen days prior to the desired effective date in order for the application to be on the agenda for approval by the Winnebago County Board of Supervisors (local authority).

License fees will be processed through the ABD’s electronic funds transfer (EFT) system. The payment for the total cost of the license will be deducted after the application has been processed by ABD and approved by the local authority.

The final approved license will be emailed to the applicant’s email address provided during the application process.

The Winnebago County Board of Supervisors only have authority for approval of applicants located outside of incorporated city limits. Any applicant inside of an incorporated city should contact the appropriate City Clerk.

Please contact the Winnebago County Auditor’s Office at 641-585-3412 with any local authority questions.

Log onto the Iowa Alcoholic Beverage Division’s website and click on the Licensing section and complete the online application process.

Online License Application

If you have any questions or are having difficulties with the online form, contact the ABD at (515) 281-7400.

Fireworks License

Permit Application

Auctioneer License

License Application

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