You must be at least 19 years of age to apply for a SOP.

Where to apply

Public event organizers can apply for their Special Occasion Permits online, directly from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO).

By using the iAGCO online portal, which you can access by clicking the button to the left of the search bar at the top of this page, you will be able to create an account and manage your SOP applications anytime, from anywhere.

As of April 1, 2018, LCBO stores will no longer accept or process applications for SOPs.

SOP applications are processed more quickly when applied for online and many can even be obtained on the same day when applied for through the iAGCO portal.

All applications for Special Occasion Permits made online through the iAGCO portal must be  paid for by Visa, MasterCard, Visa Debit or MasterCard Debit.

When to Apply

Permit applications for Public Events must be submitted at least 30 days before the event takes place.

For outdoor events, the permit holder must write to the local municipality, police, and fire and health departments notifying them of the event. The building department must be notified as well if a tent, marquee, pavilion or tiered seating is used.

This notification must be provided at least 30 days before the event takes place if fewer than 5,000 people per day are expected to attend the event, or at least 60 days before the event takes place if 5,000 people per day or more are expected to attend the event.

For outdoor events, you must submit a sketch showing the dimensions (size) of the proposed permit area and the location of any tiered seating.

Don’t forget to pre-order your beverage alcohol from your local LCBO.

Review and Conditions

Keep in mind that the AGCO may review any application to determine if there are any risks associated with an event and to assist applicants and permit holders in understanding how to conduct an event in a responsible manner.

In addition, the AGCO may impose one or more AGCO-Board approved conditions on a Special Occasion Permit to mitigate certain identified risks to public safety or the public interest (see Conditions).

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