News release

Nova Scotia Businesses Benefit from Amendments to Liquor Licensing Regulations

Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations (Oct. 2000 - March 2014)

Nova Scotia businesses in need of a liquor licence will soon find it easier to apply for one, thanks to amendments to the Liquor Licensing Regulations.

The amendments, which come into effect on Jan. 4, make Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations' alcohol and gaming division solely responsible for granting and enforcing liquor licences in the province. Previously, the Utility and Review Board was responsible for granting permanent liquor licences while the province issued temporary ones.

Putting the decisions for granting liquor licences in one department simplifies the process for new businesses and existing ones expanding their services.

"We're committed to focusing on the safety and protection of Nova Scotians when it comes to liquor licensing in the province," said Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations Minister John MacDonell. "At the same time, we have to make sure companies have timely access to decisions that affect their businesses."

The amendments also allow for public input only if there are objections to granting a licence. Previously, there were expensive and time-consuming public hearings for certain types of liquor licence applications even when there were no objections. The amendments will reduce costs to business and save the province about $200,000.

"These changes are definitely going to make things easier," said Luc Erjavec, vice-president, Atlantic Canada, Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association. "UARB hearings could sometimes take months, but the new amendments get rid of that bottleneck and ensure faster decisions for new liquor licence applications."

The Liquor Control Act regulates liquor sales and consumption in Nova Scotia and the Liquor Licensing Regulations set rules for how licensed establishments can operate.