The Alcohol Control Amendment Regulations, 2024, are a series of updates to the Alcohol and Gaming Regulation Act, 1997, designed to refine the regulations governing the sale and distribution of alcohol in Saskatchewan. These amendments introduce substantial changes to several sections of the Alcohol Control Regulations, 2016.

One significant aspect of these amendments is the modification of definitions. The regulations eliminate the previous definitions for “craft alcohol” and “craft alcohol producer,” replacing them with new terms. The term “entity” is now defined to encompass various organizational structures, including corporations and partnerships. Additionally, a new definition for “family event” is introduced, which refers to private gatherings celebrating family occasions and is limited to invited family members and friends.

The amendments also expand the provisions regarding retail store permits, allowing permit holders to accept customer orders for curbside delivery adjacent to their establishments. This amendment is aimed at improving customer service and convenience within the retail alcohol sector. Furthermore, the regulations clarify how municipal populations are determined concerning the issuance of retail store permits. Under the new rules, urban municipalities now include populations residing on urban reserves, while rural and northern municipalities exclude those living on reserves that are fully or partially within their boundaries.

Customers at restaurants with permits can now request the resealing of beer, cider, or wine for takeout. Moreover, restaurants are permitted to deliver takeout orders curbside, streamlining the process for customers who prefer not to enter the establishment. The amendments outline conditions under which individuals can bring and consume their own wine in restaurants, specifying that the wine must be purchased from approved sources to ensure legal compliance for both customers and establishments.

In terms of tavern and special use permits, similar provisions regarding resealing and curbside delivery are established, further emphasizing a broader trend toward increased flexibility and convenience for consumers. Additionally, the amendments clarify that holders of u-brew or u-vin operation permits can manufacture alcohol for personal use, for free consumption by others in private spaces, or for family events with a special occasion permit.

For craft alcohol producers, the regulations simplify the processes for selling and distributing their products. They are now allowed to serve samples at farmers’ markets and deliver craft alcohol directly to customers’ vehicles at curbside locations.

These amendments reflect a growing trend toward flexibility in Saskatchewan’s alcohol distribution system. By facilitating curbside delivery and clarifying rules around personal consumption, the regulations aim to modernize the alcohol service industry and improve the overall customer experience.

Saskatchewan (10/2024) March 22, 2024