Wichita's licensing program extends back to the 1870's. The very first official action taken by Wichita's City Council in 1871 was to issue a license for a "dram shop" or, as we call it today, a liquor store. License fees have been assessed against certain types of business operations for years. The right to license is found in the State constitution, city ordinances, court decisions, and city charters.
Currently, all licenses issued by the City of Wichita are for regulation purposes and are based on the premise of protecting the public safety, health, and general welfare. Licenses are issued after certain requirements and standards are fulfilled.
For more information on local codes, check out the City of Wichita Code and the Sedgwick County Code. Of more interest might be the general provisions that apply to all license applications.