LCLB AND RECENT CHANGES

Changes over the past few years mean that British Columbia's Liquor Control & Licensing Branch has created two primary licensing categories: liquor primary and food primary. When you apply for a license, you'll discover that most of the responsibility has been transferred to you and to your local municipality, making the process of securing a liquor license more complex.

Please feel free to contact us with any questions that you may have about these changes and how they may apply to your specific needs.

Recent changes to the regulations have now put into practice some of the 24 adjustments (July 2010) put forth. Here are two of those regulations that may affect some specific businesses in BC.

Herbal remedies containing alcohol have been added to the list of products that may be exempted from the Liquor Control and Licensing Act.

Seniors care homes and hospitals are now allowed to serve liquor to patients, residents and visiting guests. Previously, hospitals and community care facilities could sell or serve alcohol to patients/residents but not to visiting guests. In addition, the legislation gives the LCLB general manager authority to impose terms and conditions, or to prohibit particular institutions from exercising this option. Essentially, this is intended to permit residents to be able to enjoy a drink with visiting family members. Facilities wanting to offer more extensive liquor service to members of the public would have to apply for a liquor licence.