As the province enters the second phase of the Restart BC Plan, the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation branch has designed a simplified online application process to allow businesses to temporarily expand their service areas and patios until October 31st.
Restaurants, bars, and manufacturers such as breweries, wineries, and distilleries will all be eligible applicants.
These new temporary authorizations are focused on expanding service areas only and will not increase an establishment’s total occupancy.
This should give businesses more space to provide adequate physical distancing for patrons.
No fees will be associated with the temporary expansions, and while on-site inspections will not be required for approval, random checks may occur after.
Licensees must comply with all local bylaws and liquor-primary and manufacturer licensees must also receive the approval of their local government.
More 180,000 British Columbians work in the hospitality sector.
More information, including the full release, can be found online.