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About Lone Star Liquor Licensing

Houston-based licensing and permitting support for businesses throughout Texas

Lone Star Liquor Licensing Company, LLC is a Houston-based licensing and permitting service conveniently located just west of downtown Houston. We specialize in helping businesses navigate the complex process of obtaining, renewing, and maintaining the licenses and permits required to sell, serve, distribute, manufacture, or otherwise handle alcoholic beverages.

  • Experienced guidance through city, county, state, and federal requirements
  • Support for many business types, including bars, restaurants, liquor stores, breweries, wineries, distilleries, and event venues
  • Practical help from start to finish to reduce confusion, avoid unnecessary delays, and keep the process moving

Licensing Expertise

From retail liquor licenses to wholesale and manufacturing-level permits, our team provides knowledgeable guidance through the requirements that apply to your business. We understand that every business is different, and the permitting process can vary depending on your location, business model, ownership structure, and the type of alcohol-related activity involved.

More Than Alcohol Permits

Our expertise extends well beyond state and federal alcohol licenses. We also assist with a wide range of related business permits, including:

  • Special Occupational Permits
  • Sales and Use Tax Permits
  • Tobacco Permits
  • Food Stamp Permits
  • Lottery Permits
  • Dance Hall Licenses
  • Special Use Permits

Built to Simplify the Process

Whether you are opening a bar, restaurant, liquor store, convenience store, brewery, winery, distillery, event venue, or another alcohol-related business, Lone Star Liquor Licensing is here to help simplify the process.

With practical experience, attention to detail, and a clear understanding of the regulatory landscape, Lone Star Liquor Licensing works to make the permitting process as smooth and efficient as possible — so you can stay focused on building and operating your business.

Meet The Experts

Gerald Franklin

In Memoriam

Gerald Franklin dedicated decades to the licensing industry, owning and operating the respected Franklin licensing agency from 1967 until its sale in 2016. Known for his deep industry knowledge and commitment to helping Texas businesses succeed, Mr. Franklin built a reputation grounded in professionalism and integrity. In 2020, he partnered with Keith Coleman to help launch Lone Star Liquor Licensing Company, LLC, continuing his passion for serving business owners across Texas. His legacy remains an important part of the foundation and values of Lone Star Liquor Licensing.

Darren “Keith” Coleman

Partner

Keith Coleman is a former police officer and retired Regional Commander for the Gulf Coast Region of the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC). With decades of experience in alcohol beverage regulation and enforcement, he brings a unique perspective from both the regulatory and business sides of the industry. Keith also provides consulting and expert witness services for law firms handling dram shop cases. His extensive knowledge helps clients navigate complex licensing and compliance matters throughout Texas.

Virgie Martinez

Licensing Agent

After 28 years of experience in the alcohol beverage industry, Mrs. Martinez is an expert with wholesale and retail permits. Virgie can assist any Spanish speakers and handles new applications, renewals, tobacco, and lottery licenses. When she is not working hard, she is cheering the Dallas Cowboys to victory!

Thuong Ngo

Licensing Agent

Thuong Ngo has more than 20 years of experience in the alcohol beverage industry and specializes in mixed beverage, beer, and wine licensing. She assists restaurants, bars, and convenience stores with original permits, renewals, and compliance-related matters. Fluent in both English and Vietnamese, Thuong is dedicated to providing clear communication and dependable support throughout the licensing process. Her industry experience and attention to detail help clients move through approvals efficiently.

Christopher Lemus

Licensing Advisor

Christopher Lemus joined Lone Star Liquor Licensing in 2024, bringing more than 30 years of experience working with permitting processes and government agencies. With a background in architecture and hospitality, he understands the operational needs of business owners and works to help streamline permits and renewals. Christopher specializes in assisting clients with original applications, renewals, and general business permitting support.

Richard Rivas

Licensing Consultant

Richard Rivas is a graduate of the University of Houston with several years of hands-on experience in the alcohol beverage industry. He specializes in guiding businesses through a wide range of alcohol permits, from manufacturing and distribution to retail licensing. Richard is committed to helping entrepreneurs and business owners navigate the licensing process clearly and efficiently. Whether clients are opening a new business or expanding an existing operation, he works to make the process as seamless as possible.

Ron Weaver

Licensing Consultant

Ron Weaver joined Lone Star Liquor Licensing in 2020 as one of the company’s original team members after a distinguished 40-year career in public education throughout the Houston area. He holds both a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Houston. Ron assists clients with renewals, administrative support, and day-to-day office operations while helping ensure a positive client experience. He takes pride in working for a company committed to honesty, professionalism, and service across Texas communities of all sizes.

Sara Garcia-Vanegas

Licensing Consultant

Sara Garcia-Vanegas brings more than 20 years of professional experience in banking, public service, communications, and operations management. A graduate of the University of Houston–Downtown with a Bachelor’s degree in Communications, she specializes in client relations, licensing coordination, and managing the company’s marketing and social media presence. Sara works closely with clients throughout the licensing process while also serving as a key resource for Spanish-speaking business owners across Texas. Known for her organization, responsiveness, and approachable communication style, she helps simplify complex processes for clients every step of the way.

Find Us

Lone Star Liquor Licensing
146 Westcott St Suite 100
Houston TX 77007

Opening Hours

  • Monday - Thursday
    9 am - 5 pm
  • Friday
    9 am - 4 pm
  • Saturday - Sunday
    Closed
Opening hours may vary on public holidays
The Team