Frequently Asked Questions

Special Occasion Permits

• 1.1 Special Occasion Permits

  When do I need a special occasion permit?

  Special occasion permits are required for anyone selling alcohol, or serving alcohol at an event, such as a wedding, cabaret or other event, that is not held in a commercially permitted establishment (such as a restaurant), a private residence or another private place.  A permit is required even if you are not charging for the alcohol.  ‘Bring Your Own Alcohol’ (BYOB) events are strictly prohibited.

   

  Where can I get a special occasion permit?

  You can apply online or visit your local Saskatchewan liquor retail store.

   

  What type of special occasion permit do I need?

  The SOP online application will determine the type and cost of the permit you need based on the answers to the application questions.

   

  When should I apply?

  You should apply at least 10 days in advance of your event to ensure adequate time for processing.   Some events such as those held outdoors or large events may require additional information or more processing time so it is important to get your application in early.  If you apply at least 10 days in advance, you will receive a 20% discount off the permit fee.

   

  How can I find out if my application has been approved?

  If you applied online, you can log into your account at SLGA.com and check your My Dashboard page in the Permits, Licenses and Registrations section.  If your permit is not displayed on your dashboard or if you applied through a Saskatchewan liquor retailer, you can contact SLGA’s Client Services Branch at SOP@slga.com or by phone, toll free at 1 (800) 667-7565 or (306)787-5563 in Regina and speak to a Customer Service Associate.

   

  Where can I buy the alcohol for my event?

  All alcohol served at your event must be purchased from a Saskatchewan liquor retailer or a Saskatchewan craft alcohol manufacturer. All receipts for purchased alcohol must be attached to the permit in order to make the permit valid.

   

  Do people serving the alcohol need to complete the Serve It Right Saskatchewan (SIRS) training course?

  The course is not mandatory for special occasion permit holders, but it is available to anyone wishing to take the training.  The SIRS program provides server intervention training and is administered by Saskatchewan Tourism Education Council (STEC).  The course provides education to help to identify intoxication, handling situations involving minors and effective approaches to discontinue or refuse to sell or serve alcohol.  For more information, visit Serve It Right Saskatchewan. 

   

  Do I need insurance for my event?

  While you are not required to have liability insurance, it is good practice.  As the permit holder, you may be held liable should anyone at your event be injured. This includes injuries that happen during the event itself as well as related injuries that may occur after the event. For example, if a guest at your event becomes intoxicated and attempts to drive himself home, you may be held liable for any damages he causes to himself or to other people. Party Alcohol Liability Insurance is available from many Saskatchewan insurance brokers.

   

  I am hosting a large event.  Who can I contact for assistance?

  SLGA does offer in person or telephone consultations to permit holders that cover a number of topics for large SOP events such as security, liability, minors, etc.  You can request a SOP consultation at LL@slga.com.

   

  Where can I find out more information about special occasion permits?

  You can find more information about SOPs on our website, including the Special Occasion Policy Manual.

   

  Who can I contact at SLGA if I have questions?

  You can contact SLGA’s Client Services Branch at SOP@slga.com or by phone, toll free at 1 (800) 667-7565 or (306)787-5563 in Regina and speak to a Customer Service Associate. 

   

Liquor

• 2.2 Commercial Liquor Establishments

  I am opening a restaurant and would like to serve alcohol. How do I get a permit?

  For information about obtaining a commercial liquor permit or to apply, click here.

   

  What about liquor permits for places like sports facilities, liquor delivery businesses or hair salons?

  Information regarding special use permits can be found here. For a complete listing of the different types of liquor permits available, click here.

   

  What’s the difference between social reference pricing and minimum pricing?

  Social reference price refers to the minimum price alcohol can be sold for by retailers for off-site consumption. Minimum pricing refers to the minimum a single serving drink can be sold at for on-site consumption, such as at restaurants or bars. Information about minimum pricing and social reference pricing can be found here.

   

  Who can I call to find out more information about commercial liquor permits?

  You can contact SLGA’s Licensing Branch at 1(800)667-7565 or (306)787-5563 in Regina. You can also email: liquorlicensing@slga.com.

• 2.3 Liquor Retailing

  How many liquor outlets are there in Saskatchewan?
  There are approximately 620 liquor retailers in Saskatchewan that sell alcohol for off-premise consumption. Retailers include large standalone operations in larger centres, smaller businesses integrated within an unrelated business in rural communities and others that operate in conjunction with a liquor-permitted restaurant, tavern, etc.

   

  How much can liquor retailers charge for alcohol products?
  All liquor retailers are free to price their products as they determine appropriate for their business, subject to social reference pricing.

   

  I can’t find the product I’m looking for at my local retailer. Is there any other way to get it?
  Your local retailer has the ability to special order products that may not be currently available as a regular listing in Saskatchewan. Special orders are subject to minimum orders (generally one case), depending on the supplier. Please contact any liquor retailer to see if they will consider bringing in the product you are looking for. 

   

  How can I become a liquor manufacturer?
  For information about the different types of manufacturer permits, click here.  Information about application guidelines, required documents, and to apply can be found here.

• 2.4 Server Intervention

  How do I get my server intervention training (Serve it Right)?
  The Saskatchewan Tourism Education Council (STEC) offers training through its Serve It Right program. The training can be completed online as a self-directed course or in group seminars. For more information visit STEC.

  
  I have certification from another province. Do I have to retake the Saskatchewan course?
  If you hold a valid server intervention training certificate from another province, you may be able to transfer your certification to Saskatchewan. You should contact STEC to discuss further by calling: 1-800-331-1529. You can also submit an email using the “help” dropdown button on their website. For more information visit STEC.

  
  When does the training need to be completed?
  All employees involved in the sale and/or service of beverage alcohol must have obtained their SIRS certification and new employees must have their SIRS training prior to beginning their first shift. This applies to all staff working in liquor permitted establishments including restaurants, bars and retail liquor stores.

  What does it cost?
  Enrollment in the course costs $30.

  I‘m having technical difficulties with the course website. Can you assist me?
  The program and the related website are maintained by STEC. For more information you should contact them: 1-800-331-1529.

• 2.5 Liquor Suppliers

  How can I get my product listed for sale in Saskatchewan?

  SLGA uses a structured approach when considering and reviewing applications for product listings. Applications are accepted throughout the year and reviewed according to a pre-determined schedule. SLGA may also invite suppliers to submit applications for specific types of products based on category analysis.

  Suppliers can contact (306)787-4236 or email listings@slga.gov.sk.ca for further information.

  How do I register as an agent?

  SLGA does not currently require agents to be registered/licensed to do business in Saskatchewan. If a product is accepted for listing, the agent is required to submit a Letter of Authorization from the manufacturer stating the agent is approved to represent the product(s) in Saskatchewan.

  Are there advertising rules suppliers need to be aware of?

  The advertising standards set by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) in the “Code of Broadcast Advertising of Alcoholic Beverages” shall be applied by SLGA to beverage advertising taking place in any medium in Saskatchewan.  Other municipal, provincial and federal standards may also apply.

  The CRTC Standards prohibit beverage alcohol advertising from targeting minors.  In Saskatchewan, this is interpreted to mean that no beverage advertising may be placed:

  • Within 200 metres of elementary or secondary schools, or places of worship;
  • On buses specifically intended for transporting minors;
  • On websites or other media that are direct primarily at minors; or
  • On television or radio times when the audience is likely to be comprised primarily of minors.

• 2.6 Importing Beverage Alcohol From Abroad

  I'm returning to Saskatchewan from abroad. How much alcohol can I bring back?

  If you are 19 years of age, the federal Canada Borders Services Agency (CBSA) may grant you a personal exemption on the duties and taxes charged for alcoholic beverages you bring back. For more information about qualifying for the personal exemption and the amount of alcohol  eligible under the duty free allowance, visit CBSA online.

  How much alcohol can I bring into Saskatchewan beyond the CBSA's duty free allowance?

  Travelers returning to Saskatchewan from abroad can import (over and above the federally established duty-free allowance) per person of legal drinking age:

  • Three litres of spirits (four - 750 ml bottles of spirits)
  • Nine litres of wine (12-750 ml bottles of wine), and
  • 24.6 litres (six dozen) of beer, coolers or any combination thereof

  On any quantity above the duty-free limit, the Canada Border Services Agency will collect SLGA's markup, federal duty and GST.

  How much is the mark-up, federal duty and tax?

  For an accurate quote, please contact SLGAcustoms@slga.gov.sk.ca.

  I'm planning to move to Saskatchewan. Do I have to pay duty on my personal collection of alcohol?

  All alcohol imported from abroad to Saskatchewan in excess of the CBSA's personal exemption is subject to SLGA's markup, federal duty and GST. When moving to Saskatchewan from abroad, CBSA may require you to provide written authorization from SLGA permitting you to import your personal collection of alcohol.

Gaming

• 3.7 Casinos

  Who operates the seven First Nations casinos in Saskatchewan?

  The seven First Nations casinos are operated by the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA):

  • Gold Eagle opened in February 1996 in North Battleford.
  • Northern Lights opened in March 1996 in Prince Albert.
  • Bear Claw opened in November 1996 on the White Bear First Nation.
  • Painted Hand opened in December 1996 in Yorkton.
  • Dakota Dunes opened in August 2007 on the Whitecap Dakota First Nation.
  • Living Sky opened in December 2008 in Swift Current.
  • Gold Horse opened in December 2018 in Lloydminster.

  Who operates casinos Regina and Moose Jaw?

  Casinos Moose Jaw and Regina are operated by the Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation.

  • Casino Regina opened in January 1996.
  • Casino Moose Jaw opened in September 2002

• 3.8 Video Lottery Terminals

  How many VLTs are there in Saskatchewan?

  The current cap on VLTs for the province is 4,200 machines. VLTs can only be located in age-restricted liquor permitted taverns and restaurants with a lounge endorsement. There must be a minimum seating capacity of 30 seats in the age-restricted area to be eligible for VLTs. 

   

  What is the payout percentage for VLTs?

  On average, the payout rate for VLTs in Saskatchewan is 92.5 per cent of money wagered. Payout is determined by the frequency and prize value of the winning combinations. (Payout percentages are based on millions of plays. Individual play experience will vary).

   

  Where can I find out about the provincial progressive VLT Jackpot and previous grand jackpot winners?

  The current progressive VLT jackpot amount can be viewed at www.saskvlt.com. 

   

  Where can I find a list of establishments offering VLTs?

   A list of VLT site addresses and their mapped locations can be found at www.saskvlt.com.

• 3.9 Charitable Gaming

  What does charitable gaming include?
  In Saskatchewan, licensed forms of charitable gaming include bingo, breakopen tickets, raffles, Texas Hold ‘em poker and Monte Carlo events (mock casino). Chase the Ace and 50-50 draws fall under the category of raffles.

  Do all raffles need to be licensed?
  Yes. The Criminal Code of Canada states that all gaming is illegal, unless it is licensed or operated by a government; and that licensing authorities in each province may only license charitable or religious organizations to raise funds through lottery schemes. There are some limited options for non-profit organizations that do not qualify as charities to fundraise through small raffles for charitable objects and purposes. 

  Who is eligible for a charitable gaming licence?
  Charitable or religious organizations are eligible if proceeds are used for a charitable or religious object or purpose. See Section 6 - Eligibility in the Licensing and Charitable Gaming Policy and Procedure Manual for further information.  

  How do I apply for a charitable gaming licence?
  SLGA issues licences for charitable gaming including: raffles (including 50-50 and Chase the Ace), bingo, Texas Hold 'em Poker Tournaments, Monte Carlo Charity Events (mock casino), and breakopen tickets (commonly referred to as ‘Nevada’ tickets).

  All applicants must completely fill out the application for the particular licence they wish to obtain. Click here for a list of licences.

  New applicants may also be asked to attach a copy of the organization’s incorporation papers, constitution, bylaws and minutes of the formation meeting with the application. Typically, each organization is required to have a separate chequing account, with monthly returned cheques, that is for gaming revenue only. Organizations must deposit all gaming proceeds into this account.  

  Who can I call to find out more information about charitable gaming licences?
  You can contact SLGA’s Licensing Branch at 1(800)667-7565 or (306)787-5563 in Regina. You can also email: charitable_inquiries@slga.com. 

• 3.10 Charitable Gaming Grants

  What is the Charitable Gaming Grant program?
  The Charitable Gaming Grant program provides charitable groups and organizations a grant equal to 25 per cent of the net revenues they raise from charitable gaming activities to a maximum of $100,000 annually. 

  Who is eligible for charitable gaming grants?
  All charitable or religious groups and organizations licensed by SLGA or IGR (Indigenous Gaming Regulators) under section 207(1)(b) of the Criminal Code to conduct bingo, breakopens, raffles, Texas Hold ‘em poker tournaments and Monte Carlo events are eligible to receive the grant provided they are in good standing with SLGA.

  How do groups receive the grant and how do they apply?
  Charitable groups and organizations do not have to apply to receive the grant. SLGA obtains the necessary information from the issued charitable gaming licences, charitable gaming financial reports and other documentation submitted to SLGA.

  How long does it take to receive my grant?
  Charitable gaming grants are issued upon receipt and processing of the charitable gaming financial report and other documents SLGA deems necessary in order to process the grant. Once all required documents have been submitted and the grant has been processed,  you should expect to receive the grant in six to eight weeks.

  Who can I call to find out more information about the Charitable Gaming Grant program?
  You can contact one of SLGA’s Charitable Gaming Grant Analysts at 1(800) 667-7565 or (306) 787-5563. You can also email  charitablefinancials@slga.com

• 3.11 Gaming Employees and Suppliers

  How do I register as a gaming employee?

  A gaming employee is a person employed in a gaming-related capacity by a charitable gaming licensee, a gaming supplier, a casino, a bingo hall or bingo association, an exhibition casino operator, or Western Canada Lottery Corporation (WCLC) Saskatchewan office. Casino board members and any other person in a position designated by SLGA must also register as gaming employees. A person who works strictly as a volunteer and is not paid does not need to be registered.

  You cannot apply directly to SLGA for registration. You must first apply to a gaming establishment (casino, bingo hall, etc.) for work. If they hire you, your employer will provide you with an application and will then forward the completed application to SLGA. If you meet the criteria for registration, your application will be approved.

  Do gaming related businesses need to register as well?

  Any company that wishes to provide supplies and services to the gaming industry in Saskatchewan, regardless of whether they provide gaming or non-gaming supplies and services, must register with SLGA unless they qualify for an exemption. 

  For more information, click here.

Cannabis

• 4.12 Cannabis Legalization

  Where can I purchase cannabis?

  In Saskatchewan, cannabis can only be sold by stores that have a permit from SLGA. Cannabis retailers must operate a storefront and can also choose to sell product online.. If you’re unsure as to whether the retailer has a SLGA permit, just ask to see the permit – it should be publicly visible in the store. A list of permitted retailers is also available.  
  
  

  How old do I have to be to consume cannabis?

  You must be 19 years of age or older to purchase, possess or consume non-medical cannabis in Saskatchewan. 

   

  Can cannabis be consumed in public places?

  No, cannabis can only be consumed in private places. This means that consumption on a public street or sidewalk, in a public park, or in a car is prohibited, along with any other type of public place.

   

  Do these rules apply to medical cannabis users?

  Most provincial restrictions do not apply to medical cannabis users consuming cannabis obtained according to their Health Canada registration. Medical cannabis users cannot consume cannabis in a vehicle.

• 4.13 Cannabis Permits

  How do I apply?

  Saskatchewan has an open market system for cannabis retailing. Interested individuals and businesses seeking a cannabis permit for all communities in the province can access application forms for additional retail cannabis permits from SLGA’s website.

  
  What information will I need to apply?

  Cannabis permit holders will continue to be subject to requirements related to good character, financial capacity, inventory tracking, security, etc. as well as any municipal restrictions. To learn more about the requirements view the Cannabis Regulatory Policy Manual.

  
  What is the application fee/permit fee?

  Fees are listed on the Permit, Licence and Registration fee page.

   

  How long will it take for SLGA to approve my application so I can open for business?

  SLGA recommends that applicants allow at least 180 days to complete the permitting process. Several factors may contribute to the time needed to issue a permit including: review of personal and corporate information; construction or renovation of a physical premise; set-up of inventory tracking and reporting systems; municipal or band confirmation that cannabis businesses are allowed; incomplete, missing or incorrect information on the application; confirmation that all owners and employees have taken mandatory social responsibility training.

  
  How do I apply for a wholesale permit?

  SLGA continues to accept applications for wholesale cannabis permits. There is no limit to the number of wholesale permits available. If an applicant meets the requirements regarding suitability of character, facility security and also has minimum specified tracking and reporting capabilities, they will qualify for a wholesale permit. Learn more.

  
  How do I register as a federally licensed producer?

  Licensed producers that are registered with SLGA will be allowed to sell into Saskatchewan’s market. Wholesalers/retailers will not be allowed to buy product from unregistered producers. The registration process will help SLGA monitor the movement of inventory in the Saskatchewan market. The application forms are available here. Learn more.

   

• 4.14 Buying Cannabis

  What cannabis products can retailers sell?

  Cannabis retailers can sell dried cannabis, fresh cannabis, cannabis plants, cannabis plant seeds, extracts (which include cannabis oil and vaping products), cannabis edibles, and cannabis topicals. Retailers can also sell cannabis accessories and ancillary items, including things like bongs, vaporizers, rolling papers, lighters, cannabis cookbooks, magazines, etc.

  What are some of the rules I should be aware of when visiting a cannabis store?

  • You must be at least 19 to enter a standalone cannabis retail store or a minors restricted area of an integrated cannabis retail store.
  • Proof of age will be required for every cannabis or cannabis accessory purchase, even if the customer has shopped there previously.
  • Customers cannot touch or sample product.
  • Cannabis must be sold in a sealed package.
  • Customers can only purchase up to 30 grams (or equivalent) in a single transaction.
  • Retailers cannot give away any cannabis or cannabis accessories.
  • Hours of operation will vary by retailer but the maximum hours a retail store can be open is 8 a.m. to 3 a.m. (subject to local bylaws).

  How much can retailers charge for cannabis products? Is there any additional tax?

  Retailers set their own prices for cannabis and cannabis related products. Cannabis prices include excise duty and are also subject to PST (or VPT in a limited number of cases) and GST; accessories/ancillary items are subject to PST or VPT and GST. Retailers decide how to display their prices (final price to consumer, price before tax, etc).

  Can I buy cannabis online?

  Licensed cannabis retailers must operate a storefront and also have the option of selling online to Saskatchewan customers. Cannabis can be delivered by the cannabis retailer, a home delivery special use permittee or a common carrier contracted by the retailer. All purchases must be pre-paid from the cannabis retailer and customers will be required to show proof of age at the point of delivery. Similar to walk-in sales at a cannabis retail outlet, online cannabis purchases are limited to 30 g of dried cannabis (or equivalent) per order.

  Can I buy CBD-only products from someone other than an approved cannabis store?

  CBD is a cannabis product, and can only be bought from a SLGA permitted cannabis store or from a federally licensed producer with medical authorization.

  Can I grow my own cannabis? If I grow it can I sell it?

  In Saskatchewan, you can grow up to four plants per household for personal consumption only. You cannot sell cannabis that you grow at home.

   

• 4.15 Cannabis Sanctions

  What if I disagree with a decision made by SLGA?

  Any permitted or registered party who disagrees with an SLGA decision related to their business has the right to apply to the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Licensing Commission (SLGLC) for an appeal. The SLGLC is an independent, quasi-judicial body that reviews SLGA decisions with respect to licensing, registration, cancellation, and suspension issues.

  Can I continue to operate my business while I am serving a suspension?

  You are not legally authorized to sell or distribute cannabis in Saskatchewan during any period that your permit or registration is suspended. This means that permitted retailers must suspend all retail and wholesale sales and deliveries, including online sales, and may not allow customers in the permitted premises. Permitted wholesalers and registered suppliers may not take or fulfill orders during the suspension period. You may, however, receive shipments from suppliers on orders that were placed prior to the suspension period as well as make and receive payments for transactions that were initiated prior to the suspension period.