Question 1

How much does a liquor special event permit cost in BC?

Accepted Answer

The permit fee is $25 per day for private events (fewer than 500 invited guests, such as weddings and family parties) and $100 per day for public events (festivals, charity fundraisers, or events with 500+ attendees). In addition, server certification costs $20 for Special Event Server or $35 for Serving It Right.

Question 2

How long does it take to get a liquor special event permit in BC?

Accepted Answer

You should apply at least 4 to 6 weeks before your event. Simple private events may be approved within a few business days, but public events or events requiring police and municipal approval can take several weeks.

Question 3

How old do you have to be to get a liquor special event permit in BC?

Accepted Answer

19 years old. You must be at least 19 (the legal drinking age in BC) to apply for a Special Event Permit, hold server certification, and serve alcohol at the event.

Question 4

What are the rules at a special event?

Accepted Answer

Under LCRB policy, all alcohol must be purchased under the permit from BC Liquor Stores or authorized BC liquor retailers (no home-brew or U-brew). The permit must be posted on site, all servers and managers must hold valid SES or SIR certificates, minors must not be served alcohol, and service must end by 2:00 AM (or earlier if set by municipal or venue rules). See the full LCRB guidelines in the official Special Event Permit Policy Manual at https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/business/liquor-regulation-licensing/liquor-licence-permits/liquor-resources-information/special-event-permit-policy-manual.

Question 5

How much does a special event permit cost?

Accepted Answer

A private event permit costs $25 per day per service area. A public event permit costs $100 per day per service area. Permit fees are non-refundable once the application is submitted.

How to get a liquor special event permit in BC

The route at a glance

Complete Required Server Training (SES or SIR)

Confirm Venue Authorization & Safety Plan

Apply Online via the LCRB Special Event Portal

Purchase Liquor Legally & Display Permit at Event

Complete Required Server Training (SES or SIR)

Confirm Venue Authorization & Safety Plan

Apply Online via the LCRB Special Event Portal

Purchase Liquor Legally & Display Permit at Event

Mandatory Server Training Programs

Responsible Service BC

Special Event Server (SES) Certification

Responsible Service BC

Serving It Right (SIR) Certification

Common questions

How much does a liquor special event permit cost in BC?

How long does it take to get a liquor special event permit in BC?

How old do you have to be to get a liquor special event permit in BC?

What are the rules at a special event?

How much does a special event permit cost?

Official application portals & fee schedules

Special Event Permit (SEP) Online Portal

Special Event Permit Policy Manual