November 23, 2022
If you are planning to have a temporary outdoor physical extension (temporary patio) next year, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) would like to remind you that the government’s new approval framework comes into effect on January 1, 2023.
Starting on January 1, 2023:
- NEW! Most liquor sales licensees and manufacturers that hold a by-the-glass endorsement who want to operate a temporary patio will need municipal approval
- NEW! Upon obtaining an approval from a municipality, you are required to then notify the AGCO by making a submission on the iAGCO portal before selling or serving liquor on your temporary patio (see Notifying the AGCO of an Approved Temporary Patio)
- NEW! Temporary patios may only operate for a maximum of eight months per calendar year
The AGCO will no longer accept applications or otherwise approve temporary patios for licensees located in municipalities.
What you need to do
Liquor sales licensees and by-the-glass endorsement holders:
- Contact your local municipality for information on their approval process:
- Seek approval from your local municipality well in advance of using your temporary patio
- Direct your questions about approval of the temporary patio to your local municipality
- Continue to comply with:
- Existing AGCO requirements for permanent indoor and outdoor extensions and temporary indoor extensions
- The Liquor Licence and Control Act, 2019, its regulations, the Registrar’s Interim Standards and Requirements for Liquor as well as any other existing conditions on the licence and any conditions that have been specified on the temporary patio approval by the municipality
Not in a Municipality? (Information for Licensees on First Nations Reserves or in Unorganized Areas)
- Licensees on First Nations Reserves should view the following link for more information
- Licensees in Unorganized Areas must apply to the AGCO for approval of their temporary patio
Helpful Resources
- View the following link for more information on the temporary patio changes
- View the following link for more information on how to notify the AGCO of a temporary patio that has been approved by a municipality or band council
- For more background information, read the April 19, 2022 Information Bulletin
Contact Information
For questions about the temporary patio requirements unique to the municipality or First Nations Reserve where your establishment is located, contact your municipality or First Nations Band Council.
If you have questions, local AGCO Inspectors are here to help and support you with additional information and education. If you are unsure who your AGCO Inspector is, please email Compliance@agco.ca with your licensed establishment address to get connected.
AGCO Customer Service is available online via the iAGCO portal or by phone Monday to Friday from 8:30 am – 5:00 pm at 416-326-8700 or (toll free) 1-800-522-2876.