Vancouver's liquor-serving hours policy has not changed in more than 20 years.
That could soon be revised this spring as the city is proposing a new regulation to align the same last call with restaurants that hold a licence to serve alcohol.
Vancouver officials explained in a Feb. 18 news release that interested establishments would apply for civic and provincial approval to extend liquor-serving hours until 2 a.m. every night.
As well, downtown bars, pubs and nightclubs would apply to stay open until 3 a.m. each night — currently permitted to only "some areas" in the neighbourhood.
What are Vancouver's current liquor-serving policies?
Closing times, at the moment, range from 1 to 3 a.m. depending on location, Vancouver's Civic Engagement team stated.
Restaurants can only serve alcohol until 1 a.m. on weeknights and 2 a.m. on weekends.
Alcohol-serving hours are regulated by B.C.'s Liquor Control and Licensing Act, but the City of Vancouver is responsible for the operating and service hours of licensed establishments.
There are 120 liquor-serving places in downtown Vancouver.
Of those, 63 per cent of which are open until 3 a.m. any night of the week (see image 2 in gallery):
- Granville Street stretching from Pacific Street to Waterfront
- Davie Street from Burrard to Jervis Street
- Gastown from Richards Street to Main Street
- Chinatown between Hastings and Milross Street
Meanwhile, 86 establishments outside of downtown have an alcohol license, of which only seven per cent are open until 3 a.m. every night.
The proposed changes are "based on feedback from businesses" and would "reduce regulatory barriers for local businesses, enhance neighbourhood vibrancy, while prioritizing public health and safety."
Businesses that wish to apply for extended hours will be reviewed individually. The city said it's a provincial requirement to allow time during the application process for noise and other community concerns to be addressed.
Got an opinion?
Vancouver city council will consider the proposed liquor-serving hours changes sometime in the spring.
Local residents are encouraged to provide input on the extensions and complete a survey until March 9.
Vancouver's release said the city's final recommendations will also include consultations with industry experts, council priorities and provincial regulations.
For more information or to participate in the survey, you can visit the Shape Your City page of Vancouver's website.
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