Liquor licence applications

Planning to serve or sell liquor in Courtenay? The province regulates liquor licensing through the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB), but most applications also require City approval.

This page explains when City approval is needed, what to do before you apply and how the process works.

Before you apply

Contact the City's Development Services department before submitting your application. Early conversations help avoid delays — especially if other City approvals are involved, such as a building permit or sidewalk patio permit.

Confirm the following before submitting your application or beginning renovations or operations.

• Liquor service is permitted under the property’s zoning.
• The proposed occupant load has been determined by a registered professional architect or engineer (the City does not calculate occupant loads).
• Any required building upgrades have been identified.
• A development permit is not required (for example, for patio changes).
• You have a valid City of Courtenay business licence, or have applied for one.

When City approval is required

You may need municipal review or Council support if you are:

• applying for a new liquor licence
• changing licence terms (for example, hours, capacity or patio expansion)
• adding a patio with liquor service
• relocating a licence
• requesting a temporary use area endorsement

Depending on your application, City approval may include zoning confirmation, a building or occupancy review, public notification and a Council resolution.

Fees

An application fee applies, as set out in the City of Courtenay Fees and Charges Bylaw. Contact Development Services to confirm the current fee before submitting.