Catering endorsement (liquor)

A buyer of a caterer or restaurant that serves at off-site events meets the endorsement when reviewing the liquor licence. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario says a caterer’s endorsement is an add-on to a liquor sales licence, and that you must apply for or hold a liquor sales licence to apply for one.

Ontario conditions

The AGCO says the catered event must be sponsored by someone other than the licence holder, can’t be longer than 10 days, and can’t be held in a residence. Its licensing guide adds that liquor cannot be offered at a series of events sponsored by the same person if the holder is or appears to be operating an ongoing business with the sponsor. For an area not under the holder’s exclusive control, the guide says the holder must give the AGCO and the local police, fire, health and building departments details of the event at least ten days before it begins; for areas listed on the endorsement application, prior notice to the AGCO means individual events need not be notified.

What to check or ask

• A copy of the licence showing the endorsement
• Records of recent catered events: sponsors, dates and the notices given
• Whether repeat events for the same sponsor could look like an ongoing business
• Whether the endorsement continues after the AGCO transfers the licence to the buyer

The AGCO says a transfer is required when there is a prescribed change of ownership. See can I transfer my liquor licence when I sell and liquor licence transfer. Check the rules in your province.