Urgent Update: Temporary Authorization for LPs During FIFA World Cup

Dear ABLE BC Members and Industry Colleagues,

We are pleased to let you know that Liquor Primary establishments have been granted temporary authorization to open early during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, November 20-December 18, 2022.

The Liquor Control and Licensing Board (LCRB) has released Policy Directive 22-15 which announces temporary terms and conditions to permit LP establishments greater flexibility in hosting televised games of the FIFA World Cup. There is no change to the hours of liquor sale and service. 

The temporary terms and conditions apply during the World Cup, November 20-December 18, 2022 and include:

  • A liquor primary establishment may open to the public for non-liquor service prior to 6:00 a.m. provided there is a minimum of one hour between the end of liquor service the preceding evening and the opening for the soccer game. For example, if the establishment’s liquor service ends at 2:00 a.m. patrons may not re-enter the establishment until 3:00 a.m. at the earliest.

  • While these terms and conditions are in effect, the requirement for patrons to vacate the premise a half-hour prior to the start of liquor service, as stated on the licence, is repealed.

  • Minors are not permitted in the establishment during the hours of liquor service unless specifically permitted under the terms and conditions of the liquor licence, but minors are permitted outside the hours of liquor service.

  • Liquor must be securely stored or supervised by staff to ensure that it is not consumed during the hours when liquor service is not permitted.

  • The person capacity for the establishment is in effect even outside liquor service hours. Licensees may not, at any time, have more persons in the establishment than the stated person capacity on the licence.

  • As always, patrons may not bring liquor into the establishment at any time and intoxicated persons are not permitted in the establishment at any time.

  • These terms and conditions are in place only for 2022 FIFA World Cup games between November 20 and December 18, 2022.

  • Licensees are not required to apply to the LCRB for approval, but it is recommended licensees check with their local government regarding any restrictions on hours of operation.

  • Please be advised that licensed establishments are subject to inspection by branch staff and police at all times.

If you have questions, please email the LCRB at LCRBLiquorPolicy@gov.bc.ca.

Click here to read the full policy directive. 

Ann Brydle