There is an impressive array of permits that need to be obtained to operate a nightclub in San Francisco. I'll try and describe each of them here. When people think of nightclub permits, this is the one they usually think of.
Liquor licenses are transferable, and they can be issued to either an individual or a company.
Sometimes there is a quota of how many liquor licenses can be issued in a particular area, so it is often easier to buy an existing liquor license from someone and transfer it, than it is to get a new one. The restaurant license is like the bar license, but lets you serve alcohol in a facility that admits minors. The restaurant license is much easier to get than the bar license, provided you are actually a restaurant. This license is issued by the San Francisco Police Department. You need this permit if there is entertainment of any kind in conjunction with the serving of food or beverages.