Liquor Licensing
Liquor Licenses are issued by the provincial Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB). However, certain types of liquor licenses require a supporting Board resolution for the licence to be approved and issued. The LCRB will direct applicants to their local government when applicable.
If a resolution is needed, a CRD Liquor License application and fees must be submitted to the Planning Department accompanied by a copy of the LCRB Liquor License application.
Cannabis Retail Sales
On June 7, 2019, the CRD Board approved a policy regarding non-medical cannabis retails sales in the regional district to supplement regulations administered by the BC Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB). The policy sets the procedure and criteria to follow when dealing with:
- Cannabis retail licence application referrals; and
- Existing licence amendment application referrals
The policy states cannabis retail stores will be evaluated on a case by case basis, and in all circumstances requires a site-specific rezoning application.
Anyone who wishes to establish a non-medical cannabis retail store in the CRD needs to apply to the LCRB. The Province will refer the application to the CRD, and staff will then initiate the rezoning requirement.
Cannabis Production in the CRD
On Aug. 23, 2019, the CRD updated cannabis-related definitions in its zoning and rural land use bylaws to match with federal legislation. With the updated wording, all types of federally licensed cannabis production facilities are allowed within heavy industrial zones.
If you are interested in cannabis production or retail sales in the CRD, please contact the Planning Department.