Alberta relaxes liquor rules: Bars, restaurants can open from 6 a.m.

 

 

Bars and restaurants in Alberta are now allowed to serve alcohol from 6 a.m. According to a new order issued by the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC), licensed establishments can start serving alcohol from the morning without having to obtain a special permit in advance. Previously, special permits were required to serve alcohol before 9 a.m. during major sporting and cultural events such as the Olympics and the Calgary Stampede. However, authorities decided to eliminate this red tape in the context of the fact that such applications cause a lot of paperwork and waste of time for the provincial government and business owners.

Minister Dale Nally stated that the aim of this reform is to give the business sector more freedom to respond to consumer needs. This decision will be of great benefit to sports enthusiasts who come to watch big matches, including the upcoming FIFA World Cup, live in the early hours of the morning, and to customers who want alcohol along with their breakfast menu. At the same time, although the operating hours have been allowed from 6 am, the AGLC will continue to monitor closely to ensure that the rules are strictly followed, the commission spokespersons said. Currently, establishments here are allowed to operate until 3 am.