How to Get a Liquor License in Saskatchewan

If you’re wondering how to get a liquor license in Saskatchewan, read this brief overview that summarizes the types of permits available and the basic requirements. Fulfilling all requirements is the most important aspect of a liquor license application and there are many steps involved. Missing information is the main reason for application processing delays. Most businesses hire a liquor licensing consultant to navigate the complexities.

Thrive Liquor & Cannabis Advisors helps businesses apply for commercial liquor permits in Saskatchewan.

Available Liquor Permits in Saskatchewan

The Saskatchewan Liquor & Gaming Authority (SLGA) administers the following types of commercial liquor licenses in the province:

• Restaurant permit
  For businesses primarily selling food for on-premises consumption
• Tavern permit
  For establishments primarily selling alcohol for on-premises consumption
• Special use permit
  For businesses where alcohol isn’t the main focus (private clubs, sports facilities, theaters, salons, hotels)
• U-Brew/U-Vin permit
  For businesses helping customers make their own alcohol
• Direct to consumer delivery permit
  For businesses delivering alcohol
• Retail store permit
  For businesses selling packaged alcohol for off-site consumption

Note: Manufacturer licensing requirements are detailed in a separate policy manual.

Liquor License Application Requirements

Listed below are the basic requirements for a Saskatchewan liquor license application:

• Proof of right to occupy the premises (lease, title)
• Personal history and criminal record checks for major shareholders, directors, and officers when applicable
• Floor plan with layout and dimensions
• Food menu (for restaurants, taverns and special use facilities)
• Vehicle registrations (where applicable)
• Public eating establishment license (where applicable)

Currently, it costs $525 (non-refundable) to apply for a commercial liquor license. Other fees may be required after the application is submitted (e.g. endorsements)

Key Qualifying Criteria

SLGA considers the following (and more) when assessing the liquor license application:

• Good character
  Applicants must have no concerning history regarding reputation, conduct, or financial matters
• Control
  Sufficient control over the premises to ensure regulatory compliance
• Training
  Serve It Right Saskatchewan (SIRS) certification for all staff involved in alcohol service
• Facility standards
  Premises must meet building codes, health and fire regulations

Common Endorsements

An “endorsement” is an add-on to your liquor permit. There are several endorsements available:

• Patio service
  Authorizes the sale of beverage alcohol on a patio connected to the restaurant
• Lounge areas
  Authorizes the sale of beverage alcohol in a lounge connected to the restaurant
• Tavern endorsement
  Permits restaurants to operate as a bar after 8pm nightly
• Catering services
  Authorizes beverage alcohol service at events under a “Special Occasion Permit”
• Room service/mini-bars
  Authorizes the sale of beverage alcohol to guests of the hotel or motel
• Minors endorsement
  Permits minors to be present as non-drinking patrons or employees in a restaurant

Compliance Essentials

Once your Saskatchewan liquor license has been approved, you must adhere to:

• Minimum pricing requirements
• Regulated hours of operation
• Food service requirements (where applicable)
• Prevention of service to minors and intoxicated persons
• Proper record-keeping

SLGA conducts inspections to ensure compliance with the law and licensing terms and conditions.

Source for this blog post
“Commercial Liquor Permittee Policy Manual”, SLGA.
“Commercial Liquor Permits”, SLGA

Saskatchewan Liquor License Applications Made Easy!

With Thrive Advisors help, getting a liquor license in Saskatchewan is easier than you think. Our liquor licensing consultants have helped countless businesses across Canada, saving them time, money and frustration. We also work with liquor licensees for the lifetime of their business, providing strategy, periodic compliance audits, and liquor license updates.