91大黄鸭 is updating its liquor policy to make the application process easier and faster for small and medium-sized businesses. 

The changes are part of a broader update to the policy, which hasn鈥檛 been revised since 2010.

Liquor license applications for businesses with fewer than 99 people will now be reviewed by city staff instead of council. This includes both new licenses and changes to existing ones. Applications for special licenses, such as those for dancing, will also be handled by staff for businesses with up to 250 people. A lower fee will apply for these applications.

Businesses with 100 to 250 people will still require council approval. However, these applications will now be considered at regular Monday afternoon meetings instead of Tuesday public hearings. The public can still provide input, which will be included in the council report. If necessary, council may send the application to a public hearing for further discussion. Venues with over 250 people will still be reviewed at public hearings, as per the current process.

A new map introduces a 鈥淐entral Area鈥� to help differentiate regulations for liquor establishments inside and outside this zone. Outdoor patios within the Central Area must close by 11 p.m. This rule aligns with the Bernard Avenue Patio Program. Outside the zone, establishments can stay open until midnight, but only if they are not near residential areas or properties designated for future residential use.

Central Area liquor map. Image | City of 91大黄鸭

Larger venues may operate until midnight, but their capacity will still be limited to 500 people. Venues outside the Central Area will be limited to 250 people unless they offer entertainment (such as cultural events) that is less focused on alcohol sales.

Staff, with RCMP support, have been approving temporary changes to liquor licenses (like extended hours or increased capacity). Currently, these changes are limited to six times a year. The new policy will limit these temporary changes to three days per event.

All new liquor license applications will require a notification system to inform nearby residents. The notification area may be expanded based on the size and complexity of the application. Every application will also require development signage to inform the public.

Council approved the policy changes at its Nov. 25 meeting.