Aberdeen City Licensing Board has been held up as an example to areas on how to develop effective policies.
A new report from health charity Alcohol Focus Scotland calls on authorities to do more to protect communities from the harm caused by over-drinking.
An analysis of 25 licensing boards found that while some progress has been made in how they are controlling the availability of alcohol, the licensing process is too removed from the people and neighbourhoods most affected by their decisions.
Aberdeen City Licensing Board was found to be one of the most effective using evidence in the formation of policies; listening to the views of the police, health professions and community groups; and taking a strong position on over-provision.
Christopher Littlejohn, consultant in public health with NHS Grampian, said the board spends tens of millions of pounds a year treating alcohol related injuries and diseases.
Adults, families, children and communities bear the brunt of alcohol abuse, while businesses and the economy pay the price through lost productivity and absenteeism, he said.
“There is a large body of consistent evidence that shows that every extra licence granted will be paid for in injuries, violence, and illness,” Mr Littlejohn said.
“NHS Grampian commends Aberdeen City Licensing Board for the way in which it has been tackling these problems through the statutory powers it has.”
The Alcohol Focus report recommends that licensing boards produce detailed statistics to effectively monitor the system and for the Scottish Government to provide clearer guidance to local authorities.
Dr Evelyn Gillan, the charity’s chief executive, said: “No community in Scotland is untouched by the poor health, crime and family breakdown caused by alcohol.
“Licensing boards have an important role in trying to minimise the harm that alcohol can cause because they have the power to control how much alcohol is available in their areas.”