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Resources for liquor Special Event Permits

Last updated on June 18, 2024

Permit holders can find resources and information to support Special Event Permits.

On this page

Special Event Permit terms and conditions

The Special Event Permit Terms and Conditions Handbook (PDF, 433KB) explains the rules from the Liquor Control and Licensing Act. It covers what individuals, non-profit organizations, and businesses need to follow when holding special events with permits.

The handbook covers the following sections: 

  • B.C.'s Responsible Beverage Service Programs
  • Operation requirements
  • Controlling your event
  • Security
  • Minors
  • Liquor service
  • Entertainment
  • Advertising
  • Charitable events
  • Relations with manufacturers, agents, and sales representatives
  • Events of municipal, provincial, national, or international significance
  • Permit documents
  • Compliance and enforcement
  • Glossary

Special Event Permit policy manual

Special Event Permit Policy Manual (PDF, 533KB) is your go-to-guide for organizing and obtaining permits for special events. It gives a detailed overview of how to apply for a permit, the requirements, and guidelines to make sure your event goes well and follows the rules.

The manual covers the following sections:

  • Overview
  • Applicant eligibility
  • Permit application process
  • Licensee special events
  • Frequency of issue and locations
  • Permittee responsibilities
  • Sources of liquor, taxation, and product returns
  • Permit conditions
  • Entertainment
  • Role of the LCRB
  • Compliance and enforcement
  • Appendix including liquor pricing and cost recovery price list
  • Glossary

Site plan and security plan

A site plan is needed for all events and must be available for inspection at the event site.

  • A site plan outlines the liquor service area in relation to the event

A security plan may be required if a liquor inspector determines it is necessary for a large event. A security plan outlines how you will:

  • Control crowds
  • Prevent minors from accessing liquor
  • Prevent overconsumption of alcohol

These documents do not need to be submitted as part of a Special Event Permit application, but they must be on-site and available for inspection in the liquor service area.

See the Security section in the Special Event Permit Policy Manual (PDF, 533KB) for more details. 

Serving It Right and Special Event Server certifications

You are required to complete a Responsible Service BC training program:

  • Serving It Right (SIR) is a course that teaches permit holders, managers, and servers about their legal duties when serving alcohol. This certificate is required for events over 500 attendees
  • Special Event Server (SES) training is an abridged program specifically for Special Event Permit events. This certificate is required for all events regardless of the size of the event

​If you hold a valid SIR certification, you do not need to take the SES program.

You can still apply for a Special Event Permit if you don’t have your certificate yet. However, you cannot host your event until you complete the course and pass the exam.

  • You cannot provide someone else's certificate number for your application.

Cannabis and Special Event Permits

Learn about cannabis at a special event.  

Drinking and driving Special Event Kit

ICBC has a drinking and driving Special Event Kit with resources like posters and tips to help your attendees plan a safe ride home.

Liquor regulations and act

You must follow B.C. liquor laws and the terms and conditions of your Special Event Permit at all times. Be sure to review the: