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The BC Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB) and the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General have invited stakeholders to provide feedback on the current “Liquor to Go” policy. In 2020, during COVID, BC liquor licensing regulations were temporarily amended to allow Liquor Primary (LP) and Food Primary (FP) licensees to sell liquor for off-site consumption with the purchase of a meal. The policy was made permanent in 2021 as a measure to help businesses financially recover from the effects of the pandemic.
In March 2025, the Union of BC Municipalities and the Public Safety and Solicitor General Working Group discussed compliance challenges that have arisen as a result of the Liquor to Go policy. The challenges include the interpretation of what constitutes a meal and the emphasis that some restaurants have placed on their Liquor to Go service over their primary and licensed purpose – selling food and beverages for on-site consumption.
The LCRB now wants to re-examine the policy in light of these challenges to strike a balance between supporting the industry and public health and safety. LCRB has invited industry advocates, FP and LP licensees, Indigenous partners, local government and health agencies to submit feedback and comments in writing by August 7, 2025. View the Liquor to Go Engagement Paper (PDF) and questions stakeholders will answer when submitting feedback and comments.
Is Your Restaurant Compliant? Ask a Thrive Liquor License Consultant
Thrive Liquor & Cannabis Advisors helps BC liquor licensees remain compliant with their license terms and conditions. Our expert consultants provide compliance checklists, policy and procedures manuals, compliance training and compliance audits, ensuring that your business remains in good standing with LCRB regulations.
