The Government of Ontario has amended Regulation 746/21 under the Liquor Licence and Control Act, 2019 establishing a new framework for temporary outdoor physical extensions (temporary patios), which took effect on January 1, 2023. These changes impact liquor sales licence holders and manufacturer by-the-glass endorsement holders.
Effective January 1, 2023:
Licensees in Municipalities:
- Must get approval of your temporary patio from your local municipality
- Must notify the AGCO of your approval, the duration of your approval and any conditions on the approval
New Authorities and Responsibilities
Effective January 1, 2023, individual municipalities and First Nations Band Councils:
- Have the authority to approve temporary patios for up to eight months total in a calendar year (does not need to be eight consecutive months) for liquor sales licensees and by-the-glass endorsement holders
- Have the option to approve for less than eight months, if they wish
- Have the authority to specify conditions on the approval
The previous Registrar Policy for temporary patio approvals is no longer in effect.
The AGCO no longer accepts applications or has the authority to approve temporary patios for licensees located in municipalities.