Private clubs offer a unique hospitality environment for members and their guests. Examples of private clubs include athletics associations, recreational clubs, cultural associations and non-profit societies. Private clubs often offer liquor service, food service, dining, recreation and social events. A private club liquor license is required to serve alcohol. Because club venues do not serve the general public, liquor and food service requirements usually differ from those of bars or restaurants.

Thrive Liquor & Cannabis Advisors helps private clubs obtain the appropriate provincial/state and municipal licenses.

Club liquor license applications & updates

When applying for a liquor license, applicants must provide documentation that proves their club is a society, non-profit or other organization with a membership list, bylaws and/or constitution, and facilities used primarily by members. Most jurisdictions require the club to have a minimum number of members to qualify for a private club liquor license.

The liquor licensing consultants at Thrive Advisors guide private clubs from early planning stages through to license approval. Our work prevents delays and ensures that your license is approved as quickly as possible.

Ongoing support

After a license is approved, private clubs must continue meeting all regulatory requirements, including restricted access for minors, accurate record-keeping, proper liquor storage, adequate security, required signage, and responsible service practices. Thrive supports clubs in maintaining ongoing compliance through regular audits, staff training, policy and procedure development, and assistance with license renewals and endorsement applications.

What we do

Our liquor license consultants assist with:

  • Private club liquor license applications
  • Liquor license renewals
  • Lounge, dining, patio endorsements
  • Food service licensing

  • Floor plans and service area review
  • Security and incident log planning
  • Compliance audits and training
  • Policy and procedures development

Thrive Liquor & Cannabis Advisors provides hospitality licensing services across Canada and in select U.S. jurisdictions. 

Private club liquor licensing FAQ

1How does a liquor license for a club differ from other types of liquor licenses?
Access to the private club is usually restricted to members and their invited guests. Private clubs are not open to the public. Licensing authorities usually require that the club have a minimum number of members to qualify for a private club license.
2Can we serve liquor at private events hosted by members?
Some jurisdictions allow private clubs to host events for members and their guests although an additional special event permit may be required.
3Do staff need to complete liquor service training?
All managers and staff who serve alcohol must hold valid responsible liquor service certification. The licensing authority will have lists of approved certification training courses. Training courses are usually online. View alcohol server training by country.
4Can guests of members be served liquor?
Typically guests may be served alcohol if they are signed in by a member. The private club may have to maintain a record of guests.
5Can we apply for an endorsement to serve members on a patio?
Yes, in some jurisdictions you may add a patio endorsement (an add-on to your club liquor license) so you can serve liquor on a patio that is restricted to members and their guests. Thrive consultants can assist you with endorsement applications.
6Do you travel to our location to provide services?
In most cases we can provide our services remotely, but in some circumstances, we can travel to you.
7How much does consulting cost?
Consulting fees charged will depend on the complexity of your private club and the number of licenses and endorsements required. We offer a free 30-minute consultation which will help us provide an accurate estimate.

If you’re looking for trusted advisors who work in partnership with you to ensure the success of your business, let’s talk.

Sign up for a 30-min complimentary discovery session.

Let’s start the conversation.


“We are passionate about paperwork”