No more lounge restrictions in B.C. restaurants
By Contributor
As part of the ongoing effort to cut red tape for small businesses in British Columbia, restaurants no longer have to provide a separate lounge area for customers who want to enjoy a cocktail.
This latest change builds on a complementary Liquor Policy Review update that happened last year, allowing customers to order a drink at a restaurant without feeling pressured to order food.
In the past, restaurants wanting to offer their customers a drink without having to serve them a meal had to have an isolated lounge area.
“This is a small change that will make a big impact – by removing the licensing requirements and fees the restaurant can open up more physical space that can be used to seat customers who are dining or enjoying a cocktail – this is a winning change,” said Ian Tostenson, president and CEO, BC Restaurant and Foodservices Association.
“Removing red tape for B.C. restaurants gives them more time to create world-class food and provide outstanding customer service.”
Creating flexibility for restaurants will help to remove the unnecessary burden for businesses in B.C., while understanding that restaurants will still need to ensure that their primary purpose is the service of food.
Music and comedy performances now will come easier, too, thanks to new relaxed entertainment rules. Restaurants are no longer required to apply for a permit to host entertainment, such as a guitar player or comedian, as long as patrons are not participating in the show.
“We are making small changes with big impacts, as we update our liquor policies based on the feedback I received from industry and British Columbians during the Liquor Policy Review,” said John Yap, Parliamentary Secretary for Liquor Reform.
“Today is a great example of the work we are doing to improve processes for restaurants and create more convenience for consumers.”
Quick facts:
- These changes support the implementation of the Liquor Policy Review recommendation #35 and remove five regulations from the count.
- Read the full list of Liquor Policy Review recommendations: http://www2.gov.bc.ca/local/haveyoursay/Docs/liquor_policy_review_report.pdf
