VANCOUVER, BC – Vancouver city council has unanimously approved zoning and licensing changes that will allow breweries and distilleries in the city to operate on-site bars and lounges.
Previously, breweries and distilleries in Vancouver were only allowed to sell packaged product to take home, or offer small free samples to visitors. With the new rules, they will be allowed to sell and serve alcohol for on-site consumption, with several provisions:
- All alcoholic beverages served must be made on-site.
- Operating hours must fall between 9:00 AM and 11:00 PM.
- The bar/lounge area cannot exceed 80 square metres (850 square feet), and must occupy no more than 1/3 of the area of the brewery or distillery.
An article in today’s Vancouver Sun provides more details on the changes, including a list of breweries eligible to apply for the new license.