Special Occasion Licence

If you are planning to serve liquor in a public place or sell liquor anywhere, you will need either a private or public Special Occasion Licence.

Private special event

A private special occasion is an event that is limited to attendance by:

• family
• friends
• an organization's members or staff, or
• invited guests or ticket holders (tickets must be sold or given away before the event)

The occasion may be:

• social (such as a staff party, birthday or anniversary)
• religious (such as a wedding, christening, bar mitzvah or other religious occasion), cultural, recreational, sports or community orientated, or
• promotional, to acquaint people with the product of a licensed winery, brewery or distillery

Pre-wedding parties, such as stags or bachelorettes do not qualify for a private or public special occasion licence and must be held in a licensed establishment or a residence.

Public special event

A public special occasion is open to anyone who wishes to participate or buy a ticket, either at the door or in advance of the event.

The occasion may be:

• a community or public event (such as a community festival or outdoor concert)
• a tasting event so a liquor manufacturer can showcase their product, or
• any event that contributes to the cultural or social life of the community

  See:
  If You Want a Liquor Licence
  Special Occasion Licence
  What are the basic rules for a Special Occasion Licence?
  Do you allow any exceptions to the rules?
  How do I apply for an Special Occasion Licence?
  How much does it cost?
  Where can I find out more about the Special Occasion Licence?

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