The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) is responsible for administering the Liquor Licence and Control Act, 2019 (LLCA), which together with its regulations and the standards and requirements established by the Registrar establish the licensing and regulatory regime for most aspects relating to the sale, service and delivery of liquor in Ontario.

The LLCA and its regulations provide the AGCO with the authority to license and regulate various classes of licences, endorsements and permits established under the legislation, including:

  • Licences for establishments to sell or serve liquor to the public (e.g. bars and restaurants)

  • Licences for ferment-on-premises facilities

  • Licences to deliver liquor

  • Manufacturers’ licences

  • Licences to represent a manufacturer

  • Special occasion permits for the sale and service of liquor on special occasions (for example, cash bars at fundraising events, weddings and receptions)

The LLCA  also provides for an inspection and compliance regime to ensure that licensees, endorsement holders and permit holders act in compliance with the law relating to the sale, service and delivery of liquor.

The AGCO’s key regulatory objectives in relation to the sale, service and delivery of liquor are to:

  • Ensure the liquor sector is operated with honesty and integrity and in the broader public interest

  • Ensure that liquor is sold, served and delivered responsibly

  • Ensure that area residents are provided an opportunity to have their views considered during the liquor sales licensing process

  • Permit Ontarians and visitors opportunities to responsibly enjoy liquor within an economically viable hospitality and tourism sector.

For more information about the specific types of licences available in the liquor sector, visit the Alcohol section of the website.

This portal is intended for the general public who are interested in learning more about the liquor regulatory framework in Ontario and key requirements in place to support the responsible sale, service and delivery of liquor to the public.

Line of Business: 
Alcohol
Sector: 
For the Public

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