Alberta bars now serve liquor from 6 a.m. without permits
Province scraps application process for early service, giving venues flexibility for World Cup and Stampede.
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Alberta's liquor rules just got simpler for bars and restaurants. Licensed establishments can now serve alcohol starting at 6 a.m. without special approval, the province announced Tuesday—a permanent change ending years of application red tape.
Previously, the earliest service was 9 a.m., and venues wanting to serve earlier during special events like the Stampede or Olympics had to apply with two weeks' notice and wait for approval. The new rule eliminates that entire process.
"This is an industry where you're struggling with tight margins," said Mona Pinder, executive director of the Alberta Hospitality Association. "It's just an opportunity that makes it easier to add a few more hours, potentially make some better sales."
The timing matters: World Cup matches kick off this month, and the Stampede is coming. Venues can now respond to demand without bureaucratic delay. Closing time remains 3 a.m., with last call one hour before. The change applies to restaurants, bars, private clubs, and other Class A, B, C and F licensees across Alberta.
The government cited reduced red tape as the reason. "Business owners told us they want more flexibility to serve their customers and respond to demand," said Minister of Service Alberta Dale Nally.