Special occasion permits
Requirements for serving or selling alcohol at events and gatherings in Niagara that are not licensed establishments.
Permit issued by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario
Required for alcohol sales outside licensed premises
Notify Public Health and the city or town
When you need a permit
A Special Occasion Permit from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) is required any time alcohol is offered for sale or served anywhere other than a licensed establishment (such as a bar or restaurant) or a private place (such as a private home or office).
This includes events such as cash bars at weddings, charity fundraisers, stag and does, and private receptions held in rented venues.
Types of permits
Private event
For events where only invited guests attend, such as cash bars at weddings, stag and does or private receptions. These events cannot be advertised and there can be no intent to profit from alcohol sales.
Public event
For events open to the public, such as charity fundraisers. Public events can be advertised and may allow fundraising or profit from alcohol sales.
Industry promotional event
For events held to promote a manufacturer's product through sampling. There can be no intent to profit from alcohol sales at the event.
What you need to do
As the applicant, you're responsible for contacting the following before your event:
- Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario — to apply for your permit
- Local police and fire services — as required
- Your city or town municipality — for any local licensing or permit requirements
- Niagara Region Public Health — complete the permit application
Serving food at your event?
If your event also involves food vendors or catering, additional Public Health requirements apply. Visit special events and farmers' markets for food safety requirements.