Coon Rapids Cuts Wine License Fees in Half to Support Small Businesses Under New 2026 Fee Schedule

Coon Rapids Cuts Wine License Fees in Half to Support Small Businesses Under New 2026 Fee Schedule

COON RAPIDS, Minn. — In a move aimed at stimulating economic development and offering significant relief to local small businesses, the Coon Rapids City Council has adopted its 2026 fee schedule, which substantially cuts the cost of on-sale wine licenses.

The change—formalized under Ordinance 2333 and Resolution 25-119—was approved during the Council’s October 21, 2025 meeting following a public hearing and staff recommendation. The ordinance specifically targets annual fees for businesses holding an on-sale wine license, reducing them by up to 50 percent.

City officials and staff described the fee adjustment as part of a broader strategy to bolster the local economy, support small-to-mid-sized restaurants and bars, and enhance the city’s competitive standing among neighboring communities with lower beverage licensing costs.

Key Reductions for Small Business Relief

Under the new 2026 Fee Schedule, the annual fees for on-sale wine licenses have been reduced as follows:

• Establishments with seating for 35 to 99 patrons will see fees lowered from $1,000 to $500.
• Establishments with seating for 100 or more patrons will see fees reduced from $2,000 to $1,000.

This decisive action is intended to lessen the financial burden on small and independently owned restaurants and cafes, freeing up capital that owners can reinvest in operations, staff development, or customer experience enhancements.

Competitive Edge and Economic Strategy

According to city staff, the reduction aligns with Coon Rapids’ ongoing efforts to maintain a healthy business climate and encourage new investment. By lowering the cost of entry for serving wine, city leaders hope to make Coon Rapids a more attractive destination for entrepreneurs in the food and beverage industry.

“The intent is to support our small businesses and ensure that our city remains competitive within the metro area,” city officials noted during the meeting discussion. “License costs can be a deciding factor for startups and expansions, and this change makes Coon Rapids more accessible.”

The city conducts an annual review of all municipal fees to ensure alignment with community priorities and economic conditions. The 2026 Fee Schedule represents one of the more targeted adjustments in recent years, emphasizing business retention and local development.

Implementation and Next Steps

The 2026 Fee Schedule, including the reduced on-sale wine license rates, takes effect on January 1, 2026. Businesses are encouraged to review the updated schedule and contact the City Clerk’s Office for detailed information on application timelines and compliance requirements.

Residents and business owners can view the full Ordinance 2333 and Resolution 25-119 documents, along with the complete 2026 fee schedule, through the City of Coon Rapids’ official website under the Agendas & Minutes and Document Center sections.

MinneapoliMedia