Liquor Liability Insurance in Florida & Virginia

If your business sells, serves, or distributes alcohol, liquor liability insurance is a must. From lively restaurants and rooftop bars in St. Petersburg to craft breweries in Richmond, this coverage protects against alcohol-related claims that could otherwise put your entire business at risk.

Protecting Your Business When Alcohol Is Involved

Alcohol can boost sales, but it also adds serious liability. Even with staff training and strict service policies, your business could still be held responsible if a guest becomes intoxicated and causes harm or property damage.


Liquor liability insurance helps cover legal fees, settlements, and damages - keeping your reputation intact and your doors open.

We work with businesses across Florida and Virginia, including:



  • Restaurants & Bars
  • Breweries & Taprooms
  • Event Venues & Banquet Halls
  • Nightclubs & Lounges
  • Caterers & Private Clubs


Why Liquor Liability Insurance Matters

Even responsible operators can face alcohol-related claims. This coverage provides a critical layer of protection.

Stay Compliant With Local Laws & Licensing

Many cities and counties in Florida and Virginia require proof of liquor liability insurance to issue or renew a liquor license.

Be Ready for Liquor Liability Audits

Many carriers require yearly audits of alcohol sales. We help you prepare so the process is smooth and stress-free.

Cover Alcohol-Related Injury or Property Damage

If an intoxicated guest injures someone or damages property, this policy helps cover the costs.

Safeguard Your Business Reputation

Having coverage shows you’re serious about risk management and allows you to respond quickly when an incident occurs.

What Can Liquor Liability Insurance Cover?

This coverage helps manage risk when alcohol service is part of your business operations.

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Third-Party Bodily Injury

Coverage if an intoxicated customer injures someone after being served at your establishment.

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Property Damage

Helps pay for repairs or replacement if a guest causes damage to property due to intoxication.

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Legal Defense & Settlements

Covers attorney costs, court expenses, and settlements if your business is named in a lawsuit.

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Assault & Battery (Optional Add-On)

Some policies offer additional protection for fights or altercations involving intoxicated patrons.

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Incidents Off-Premises

Coverage may apply even after the customer leaves your bar, restaurant, or venue - depending on policy terms and state.

Liquor Liability Insurance FAQs

  • Is liquor liability insurance required in Florida and Virginia?

    Not at the state level. Neither Florida nor Virginia has a statewide law requiring liquor liability insurance. However, many cities, counties, and liquor boards require proof of coverage before they’ll issue or renew a liquor license. In addition, landlords, lenders, and event venues often make it a condition of doing business.

  • What types of businesses need liquor liability insurance?

    Any business that sells, serves, or distributes alcohol. This includes restaurants, bars, breweries, nightclubs, event venues, and caterers throughout Florida and Virginia. Even businesses that host occasional events with alcohol should consider coverage.

  • How are liquor liability claims different from general liability?

    Most general liability policies exclude alcohol-related claims. Liquor liability insurance specifically fills that gap, covering risks tied to intoxication, overservice, or alcohol-related incidents.

  • Does this policy cover fights or altercations?

    It depends on your policy. Assault and battery coverage is often excluded but can be added - this is important in high-traffic venues or nightlife settings, particularly in areas like downtown Tampa or Virginia Beach.

  • What is the onboarding process like with Pelican Shield?

    At Pelican Shield, we don’t just hand you a policy and walk away. Through our Pelican Flight Path, we guide you step by step - from onboarding to audits to ongoing check-ins - so you always know where you stand and never have to guess about your coverage.