Source: AGCO (Ontario)
Ontario’s regulatory changes making the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) the province’s exclusive beverage-alcohol wholesaler took effect on 1 April 2026. The amendments to Ontario Regulation 746/21 were made on 16 December 2025, according to the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario.
Ontario alcohol licensees must adapt to LCBO’s exclusive wholesale role under the regulatory changes now in effect.
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Ontario’s Alcohol and Gaming Commission (AGCO) says specified alcohol-licensed venues must display a warning about drinking during pregnancy. The sign must be in English, measure at least 8 by 10 inches and be clearly visible to customers; non-compliance at AGCO-licensed premises could lead to administrative action.
Ontario’s Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) issued guidance on 9 June 2026 for alcohol permit holders preparing for increased business during this summer’s football World Cup. The guidance covers age checks, responsible service, permitted hours, capacity limits, temporary outdoor areas and preventing illegal gambling, among other requirements.
Ontario changed its special-occasion permit rules from 30 April 2026 to allow municipalities to designate outdoor public cultural or community events for bring-your-own-alcohol permits. Organisers must obtain municipal confirmation before applying to the Alcohol and Gaming Commission; permits remain available for events linked to professional, semi-professional or post-secondary sports.
Ontario amended Regulation 746/21 under the Liquor Licence and Control Act, 2019 on 16 December 2025, with changes effective 1 January 2026, the AGCO said. Licensed grocery stores, convenience stores and wine boutiques may now advertise and sell alcohol online alongside other products, display energy drinks next to liquor, and apply a minimum retail price of $61.25 for 5,000 mL wine containers.
Soft2Bet began taking bets through its Betinia brand in Ontario earlier in August, bringing its number of brands operating in the province to three. The company also announced on 26 August that ToonieBet had become the Ottawa Redblacks’ exclusive sportsbook partner, with branding and activations at the team’s stadium and on its channels.