French Assembly Approves Easier Licensing for Rural Bars

The new law aims to revitalize rural areas by simplifying the creation of alcohol-serving establishments, while reinforcing mayoral oversight.

The French Assembly passed a law allowing the creation of new Licence IV permits for communes with fewer than 3,500 residents and no existing bars.
The legislation includes amendments granting mayors veto power over new licences and their potential transfers to other areas.
Supporters argue the initiative will combat rural isolation and economic decline, while critics highlight public health concerns tied to alcohol consumption.
The law builds on a 2019–2022 experiment and seeks to address the sharp decline in rural bistros, which have dropped from 200,000 to less than 35,000 in 50 years.
Amendments also limit the transfer of licences to ensure they remain within the issuing commune, addressing concerns of urban exploitation.