Liquor licences for private special events

In Alberta, you need a special event licence (SEL) to sell or provide liquor at private events, which are open to invited guests or members only.

AGLC recommends you check municipal requirements if the event is on municipal property.

Types of private events

Depending on the type of private event, you will need a specific special event licence.

If liquor will be provided free to guests

If your event is open to invited guests or members only, and you will be providing liquor free:

• You will need a private non-sale SEL licence
• The fee for this licence is $10
• You can apply online:
  
  AGLC Special Event Liquor Licence online application

For information on your responsibilities during your event, see the Special Event Liquor Licence Pamphlet.

Special Event Licence - Private - Policies and Guidelines

If liquor will be sold to guests

If your event is open to invited guests or members only and guests will be paying for either admission or liquor service:

• You will need a private resale SEL licence
• The fee for this licence is $25
• If you are an individual, not-for-profit group or municipality, you can apply online:
  
  AGLC Special Event Liquor Licence online application
• Companies must contact AGLC to apply for a licence: 1-800-272-8876, ext. 8846

For information about your responsibilities during your event, see the Special Event Liquor Licence Pamphlet

Special Event Licence - Private - Policies and Guidelines

Private resale: annual

If your non-profit organization will be applying for a list of specific dates, such as for regular meetings:

• You will need a private resale annual licence

Apply online:

Online Licensing Portal

For more information, visit Online Licensing.

If liquor will be served at a public special event, refer to Liquor licences for public special events.