AGCO warns Ontario liquor venues over capacity limits and stronger enforcement
Enforcement & compliance1 min read
Source: AGCO (Ontario)
Ontario’s Alcohol and Gaming Commission is increasing inspections at licensed venues where overcrowding risks have been identified, with a focus on repeat breaches. The AGCO says violations have led to suspensions and monetary penalties, and it plans tougher measures, including licence revocations, for continued non-compliance.
Inspections and enforcement have intensified at licensed establishments identified as at risk of overcrowding in recent months, with repeat non-compliance a particular focus, the AGCO said. Non-compliance has led to suspensions and significant monetary penalties; the regulator plans tougher penalties for repeat overcrowding violations.
The AGCO said non-compliance would bring a greater presence of its inspectors and potentially other enforcement partners, including local police and fire services. It said enforcement measures would include monetary penalties, suspensions and liquor licence revocations.
Licensees must keep numbers within the capacity stated on their licence, counting everyone in the licensed area, including patrons, employees, managers and contract personnel. Where premises have several licensed areas, each area's limit applies separately and cannot be combined with another.
It said overcrowding could increase the likelihood of intoxication and disorderly conduct.
Licensees must admit AGCO inspectors for inspections at any reasonable time, cooperate fully, give truthful answers and provide requested records. Questions about maximum capacity and requests to change it should go to the local municipal building or fire department, the regulator said.