Regulatory body AGLC (Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis) says it will give licensed establishments greater flexibility by allowing liquor service to begin as early as 6 a.m. without the need for special approval.
This change gives licensees the option to open earlier to meet business needs and customer demand, including during occasions such as international sporting events and cultural celebrations, said the AGLC.
“This change cuts red tape and makes life easier for Alberta businesses. Business owners told us they want more flexibility to serve their customers and respond to demand, whether that’s for a major sporting event, a special celebration or an early morning crowd. We listened and we are delivering,” said Dale Nally, Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction.
“Previous processes requiring licensees to apply separately for each special event caused significant administrative burdens for both licensees and AGLC. This change streamlines the process while maintaining the high standards in place already for safe and responsible liquor service that supports industry integrity, public well-being and community safety,” said Kandice Machado, CEO, AGLC.
Class A, B, C and F licensees such as restaurants, bars, private clubs and licensed facilities that make their own product have the option to begin early liquor service at 6 a.m. Early service hours are optional for these liquor licensees. Closing hours for liquor service remain unchanged at 3 a.m. with last service for alcohol stopping one hour before close, explained the AGLC.
Over the past decade, the AGLC said has approved several requests for licensed premises to serve liquor earlier than 9 a.m. for events like the Calgary Stampede, Olympics Games and FIFA World Cup with very few compliance issues.
Cheryl Maitland Muir, VP for Western Canada, Restaurants Canada, said: “Restaurants Canada welcomes the AGLC’s decision to permit extended liquor service from 6 a.m. to 3 a.m. without requiring special approval. This change removes unnecessary red tape and outdated restrictions that limited extended hours to designated major and international events. It reflects Restaurants Canada’s ongoing advocacy to reduce administrative burdens for operators, while giving businesses the flexibility to respond to local demand and seize new opportunities to better serve their guests.”
Mona Pinder, Executive Director, Alberta Hospitality Association, said: “We welcome this change from AGLC. During major events like the Olympics, World Cup and Calgary Stampede, Alberta businesses have demonstrated they can responsibly manage earlier liquor service with very few compliance issues. Making this flexibility permanent reduces red tape, eliminates unnecessary applications, and gives operators the flexibility to respond to customer demand. Instead of filling out paperwork and waiting for approvals, businesses can focus on what they do best, serving their guests and creating great hospitality experiences.”
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