Downtown Orlando businesses push back against after-midnight alcohol permit fees

Some downtown Orlando businesses are paying thousands of dollars each month to remain open past midnight. Now, business owners are asking the city to reconsider its after-midnight alcohol sales permit program and suspend the associated fees.Permit program requires additional security paymentsThe city established its After-Midnight Alcohol Sales (AMS) permit program in May 2023.Under the program, businesses serving alcohol between midnight and 2 a.m. in the Downtown Entertainment District must obtain a permit.The National Independent Venue Association, which represents venues nationwide, including The Beacham and Celine, is now asking city leaders to reconsider the program.In a letter to city officials, the organization said 39 downtown businesses were billed more than $4.3 million for off-duty police officers over a two-year period.Businesses raise concerns over rising costsBusiness owners say they recognize the importance of keeping downtown safe but argue that the cost of providing s