The Province is currently conducting stakeholder engagement regarding the temporary relocation of liquor stores in B.C., and whether there is support for providing this option to liquor retailers. Interested local governments have until September 29, 2023, to submit feedback in response to the Province’s engagement paper.
The ability to temporarily relocate a liquor store (e.g. Licensee Retail Store, Wine Store, or government liquor store) is being examined as a means to accommodate the renovation or redevelopment of liquor establishments. The Province is collecting comments to understand whether stakeholders are supportive of this option, and if so, what limitations should be placed on temporary relocations.
While local governments are not required to approve or consider liquor store relocations, proof of zoning must be provided when a liquor retailer applies for relocation. Additional information is provided in the Province’s four-page engagement paper, including:
- Further background information regarding this issue,
- A summary of several key considerations (eligibility, location requirements and time limits),
- Five questions for respondents to consider, and
- Instructions for submitting feedback.
As part of the engagement process, the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB) has sent the engagement paper to all local and Indigenous governments, Licensee Retail Store and Wine Store licensees and organizations.