Chhattisgarh Microbrewery Rules 2025: Complete Guide to Licensing, Fees and Compliance

Chhattisgarh Microbrewery Rules 2025: Everything You Need to Know

Chhattisgarh has officially introduced dedicated rules for microbreweries through the Chhattisgarh Micro Brewery Rules, 2025, notified on 20 February 2025 under the Chhattisgarh Excise Act, 1915. The rules establish a legal framework for setting up, licensing and operating craft breweries across the state.

For entrepreneurs planning to enter the craft beer market, this notification provides clarity on production limits, licensing procedures, operational responsibilities, record keeping and regulatory compliance.

This guide explains the key provisions in simple language.

What is a Microbrewery?

The rules define a Micro Brewery (सूक्ष्म यवशाला) as a brewery having a maximum production capacity of 1,000 litres per day. The licensed premises include the complete area where beer is produced and stored.

Unlike large commercial breweries, these rules are designed specifically for small-scale craft beer production.

What Qualifies as Craft Beer?

The notification defines craft beer as beer manufactured within the licensed microbrewery or its attached restaurant using suitable food ingredients. The beer may or may not be pasteurised and can be sold in:

• Kegs
• Bottles
• Cans
• Growlers

The maximum permitted alcohol strength is 8% ABV (14 Proof Spirit).

Daily Production Limit

One of the most important provisions is the production cap.

A licensed microbrewery cannot produce more than 1,000 litres of beer per day. This capacity forms the basis of licensing and operational compliance.

Licence Fee

The annual licence fee prescribed under the rules is:

₹25,00,000 per year

The licence is granted after verification of the application, inspection of the proposed premises and satisfaction of the Excise Department regarding compliance with the prescribed requirements.

Application Process

The notification prescribes a structured licensing process.

Applicants are required to submit:

• Application in the prescribed format
• Details of ownership
• Site plan
• Building information
• Machinery details
• Production capacity
• Other supporting documents specified by the Excise Department

The authorities verify the application before granting approval.

Inspection Before Grant of Licence

Before issuing a licence, Excise officials inspect the proposed premises to verify:

• Location
• Infrastructure
• Production facilities
• Storage arrangements
• Safety measures
• Compliance with applicable laws

Only after satisfactory inspection is the licence considered for approval.

Production and Operational Requirements

The rules prescribe several operational responsibilities for the licensee, including:

• Brewing only within the approved premises.
• Maintaining proper storage facilities.
• Ensuring cleanliness and hygiene.
• Maintaining production records.
• Operating only with approved equipment.
• Allowing inspection by Excise officers whenever required.

Packaging and Sale

Beer produced in the microbrewery may be sold through the permitted modes specified in the rules, including:

• Draught beer
• Bottled beer
• Canned beer
• Growlers

The rules also regulate measurement, dispensing and documentation of beer supplied from the licensed premises.

Mandatory Record Keeping

One of the most detailed sections of the notification deals with statutory registers.

Licensees are required to maintain prescribed records relating to:

• Raw material usage
• Brewing operations
• Fermentation
• Packaging
• Stock
• Beer sales
• Sampling
• Duty payments
• Production logs
• Equipment records

The notification includes Forms PM-1 to PM-15, covering applications, inspections and statutory registers that must be maintained by every licensed microbrewery.

Waste Disposal

The rules require proper disposal of waste generated during brewing.

Spent grain, yeast and other brewing waste must be disposed of in accordance with the prescribed requirements and directions issued by the Excise authorities.

Penalties

Failure to comply with the Microbrewery Rules may result in action under the Chhattisgarh Excise Act, 1915.

The notification also provides for monetary penalties for certain violations and authorises Excise officers to initiate proceedings where licence conditions are breached.

Why These Rules Matter

The introduction of dedicated microbrewery regulations is a significant step for the craft beer industry in Chhattisgarh. Instead of relying on provisions designed for large commercial breweries, entrepreneurs now have a dedicated regulatory framework covering licensing, production, sales and compliance.

For investors, restaurant owners and hospitality businesses, these rules provide greater certainty while defining the responsibilities that accompany operating a licensed microbrewery.

Need Help Setting Up a Microbrewery in Chhattisgarh?

Setting up a microbrewery involves much more than obtaining an excise licence. Successful projects require:

• Brewery feasibility studies
• Capacity planning
• Brewhouse design
• Utility calculations
• Equipment selection
• Beer recipe development
• Quality assurance systems
• Brewery commissioning
• Staff training
• Standard operating procedures

At Six Row Brewing, we help breweries and hospitality businesses plan, design and commission commercially successful craft beer operations across India. Whether you're evaluating a new project or preparing for licensing, professional technical guidance can reduce costly mistakes and improve long-term profitability.