Micropubs Can Sell Brew to Take Home

Microbrewery customers can now buy a bottle of their favorite local brew right from the bar.

Changes to the Liquor Licensing Regulations, effective today, Jan. 29, allow beer made in-house to be sold from the pub instead of having to be purchased from an adjacent, segregated storefront.

"It's about convenience and making it easier for microbreweries to do business," said Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations Minister Mark Furey. "These businesses can now serve their customers and avoid some of the extra red tape that has been burdensome for them. At the same time, the change does not increase access to liquor beyond liquor store hours."

Beer will be sold in 1.8 litre to two-litre bottles, known as growlers. The sale for offsite consumption is not permitted after 10 p.m.

Brewpubs and microbreweries can now sell their product within the premises as long as the patron leaves after purchasing the bottle. The bottle must be sealed.

"This regulatory change will reduce unnecessary red tape and help Nova Scotia small businesses grow and prosper," said Luc Erjavec, vice-president Atlantic, Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association. "At the same time, it will help quench our customers' thirst for high-quality, locally made products."

"This is an encouraging step toward reducing the regulatory burden for Nova Scotia's small business community," said Jennifer English, senior policy analyst with the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB). "Small businesses consistently rank government regulations as a top concern, so any move to eliminate unnecessary red tape is a welcome one."

A deposit is required on each bottle to encourage reuse or recycling.