How do state and local laws interact in licensing?

• A. Local ordinances set baseline requirements; state sets restrictions
• B. State law is irrelevant if local ordinances exist
• C. State law sets baseline requirements, while local ordinances can add restrictions or permissions
• D. Local ordinances supersede all state law

Answer: (C)

Licensing in this area works in layers. The state provides the baseline framework that governs who can get a license, what types exist, the standard requirements, fees, and general rules that apply across the state. Localities then use their police power to tailor or supplement that framework for their community. They can add restrictions or permissions on top of the state baseline—things like stricter hours, location constraints, or local permit rules—so long as they fit within the state framework and don’t directly contradict state law. If there’s a direct conflict, state law generally governs. That’s why the correct view is that state law sets baseline requirements, while local ordinances can add restrictions or permissions.