If you love tinkering with spirits at home, California’s rules can feel confusing. This guide cuts through the jargon and tells you exactly what the law says, how to stay legal, and what to avoid.
In California, it’s illegal to distill alcohol without a federal permit from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). The state follows the federal rule, so any home distilling—whether you call it moonshine, whiskey, or vodka—needs that paperwork.
You can make wine or beer at home under the state’s “homebrew” exemption, but once you add a still and heat the mash, you cross into illegal territory unless you have the right permits.
Step one is to apply for a federal distilled spirits plant (DSP) permit. The application asks for details like your equipment, location, and security plan. It can take several months, and there’s a $1500 filing fee.
After the federal permit is approved, you need a state license from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC). The ABC checks that your operation meets health and safety standards. Fees vary based on production size.
Once both permits are in hand, you must keep detailed logs of every batch—ingredients, dates, volumes, and taxes paid. The TTB and ABC can inspect these records at any time.
If you distill without a permit, the penalties are steep. First‑time offenders can face fines up to $10,000, seizure of equipment, and possible jail time. Repeat violations increase both fines and prison risk.
Even if you only make a few bottles for friends, the law treats it the same as commercial production. The authorities don’t care about the amount; they care about the act of distilling.
Want to experiment without breaking the law? Stick to homebrewing beer or winemaking, both of which are fully legal up to 100 gallons per adult per year. You can also buy small‑batch craft spirits from licensed producers and blend them at home for flavor experiments.
If you still dream of making moonshine, consider joining a cooperative distillery. Some states allow shared facilities where you pay a fee to use licensed equipment. Check if California has any similar programs.
Understanding California’s moonshine law helps you avoid costly mistakes and keeps your hobby fun. Follow the steps, stay organized, and you’ll be brewing legally in no time.
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