Alberta bars can now pour from 6 a.m., anytime they want
Liquor licensing rules relax. Establishments no longer need special permission for early service at major events.
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Alberta's bars and restaurants just got more flexibility on when they open their taps.
The Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission announced Tuesday that licensed establishments can now serve alcohol starting at 6 a.m. any day of the week — no special permission needed.
Before, bars and restaurants had to apply for permits to serve alcohol before 9 a.m., and those permits were only granted for major events like the Olympics or Calgary Stampede. The AGLC said the paperwork created unnecessary burden for both regulators and businesses.
"This change streamlines the process while maintaining the high standards in place already for safe and responsible liquor service," said AGLC CEO Kandice Machado in a statement.
Service Alberta Minister Dale Nally framed the move as listening to industry. "Businesses told the province they wanted more flexibility to meet the needs of their customers. We listened and we are delivering."
The Alberta Hospitality Association says don't expect your local pub to suddenly open at 6 a.m. every morning. Most operators will likely keep their current hours and use early service mainly for big sporting events or other major occasions. But the option is now there without the red tape.