Restaurant patio in Gastown

Liquor-serving establishments

If you want to have a business in Vancouver that sells or serves alcoholic drinks, you must have a liquor licence.

Apply for or make changes to a liquor licence

Apply for a new licence, make permanent changes to an existing liquor primary licence, or apply for a one-time exception.

Temporarily extend hours and/or area

Submit an amendment request to temporarily extend opening hours, closing hours, or area of your liquor-serving establishment.

Permanently change hours of liquor service

Apply for a new licence, make permanent changes to an existing liquor primary licence, or apply for a one-time exception.

Exceptions: Liquor Primary distancing and moratoria

Council approved a one-time exception to two liquor policies to the occupant load at Liquor Primary establishments.

The role of the Province and the City

Policy changes

  • October 2023 - The sale of wine on shelf in grocery stores will be permitted later this fall for stores that meet provincial regulations and licensing and have a valid municipal business licence.
  • June 2022 – Council has updated policy to allow food primaries in the Granville Entertainment District and Downtown East Side to be eligible to apply for Class 1 and Class 2 dual licences.

Select your business type below to learn how the changes may affect your business.

Learn about the liquor licence fees

Licence By-law 4450

See Schedules A and B for liquor licence fees.

All licences expire annually on December 31 each year. Fees are pro-rated based on the business start date.

Contact us

Liquor Licence Coordinator

Phone: 604-871-6988

Liquor Licence Group

Phone: 604-871-6461 or 604-873-7954

Email: liquor.comments@vancouver.ca