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Frequently Asked Questions

Special Occasion Permits

  • 1.1 Special Occasion Permits

    When do I need a Special Occasion Permit (SOP)?
    Special Occasion Permits are required for anyone selling alcohol, or serving alcohol at an event that is not held in a commercially permitted establishment (such as a tavern, restaurant, or similar location), an occupied 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.

    What is the best way to get a permit?

    The best way to get your Special Occasion Permit is to apply online. Some Saskatchewan liquor stores may also offer this service. Inquire at your preferred retailer. Once you've received your permit, you can purchase your alcohol at any Saskatchewan liquor retailer or any Saskatchewan Craft Manufacturer.

     

    What type of Special Occasion Permit do I apply for?

    The SOP online application is the same for all types of events. The category of permit that you receive will be determined by the details of your upcoming event.

     

    How long does it take to get a permit?

    All applicants for Special Occasion Permits should apply at least 10 days in advance of the scheduled function to ensure adequate time for processing. Certain events, such as those occurring outdoors or having an attendance greater than 500 people, may require additional time for review.

     

    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, Licences and Registrations section.  You can also contact SLGA’s Client Services Branch by email or by phone, toll free at 1 (800) 667-7565 or (306) 787-5563 in Regina and speak to a Client Services Associate.

     

    Where can I buy alcohol for my event?

    All alcohol served at the event must be purchased from a Saskatchewan liquor retailer or a Saskatchewan Craft Manufacturer. The receipts for all the beverage alcohol at the event must be on-site and be readily available if requested. All the receipts must show the approved permit number for the event.

     

    Can I serve homemade beer and wine at my event?

    Homemade beer and wine, including product made at licensed U-brew/U-vin facilities, can be served at no charge at family events.

     

    Do people serving 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 is administered by Saskatchewan Tourism Education Council (STEC) and is typically targeted at commercial permittees within Saskatchewan. The course provides education to help to identify intoxication, handle situations involving minors and provide effective approaches to discontinue or refuse to sell or serve alcohol. 

     

    STEC also provides an online course for unpaid volunteers who serve or sell alcohol under a Special Occasion Permit. This course is not mandatory but does provide helpful information regarding the service of alcohol at events covered by a Special Occasion Permit. 

     

    For more information, visit Serve It Right Saskatchewan. 

     

    How do I know what and how much to buy?

    You can ask any local Saskatchewan liquor retailer or Saskatchewan Craft Manufacturer for help planning your alcohol purchases.

    What if I buy too much?

    Unopened spirit or wine bottles and sealed beer or cooler cases can sometimes be returned for a full refund at the location where originally purchased, as long as the packaging is not damaged and you have the original receipt. Check with your liquor retailer or Craft Manufacturer for their policies about returns.

     

    Besides alcohol, what else should I serve?

    A supply of food must be available to patrons during the permitted event. Light meals (e.g., appetizers, cheese/vegetable trays) and/or pre-packaged snacks (e.g., potato chips, peanuts) would be considered sufficient for event guests. Ideally, this food would be available throughout the event, but the event host may also choose to provide food at a specific time.

    Non-alcoholic beverages must be available at all times during the permitted event. 

     

    Can minors attend my event?

    Non-sale and Cost Recovery Special Occasion Permits are typically endorsed so that minors may attend as non-drinking patrons or staff, either with or without their parent, legal guardian, or spouse of legal age.  In exceptional circumstances, SLGA may determine that minors should be prohibited from attending a Non-sale or Cost Recovery special occasion event.

    Typically, minors may not attend Sale permitted events. However, if requested by the event host, SLGA may consider endorsing the permit to authorize minors to attend as non-drinking guests or event staff in the company of their parent, legal guardian, or spouse that is of legal age. The decision whether to issue a minors endorsement is made on a case-by-case basis depending on the nature of the event.

    Minors cannot purchase or consume alcohol, nor act in any way in the sale or service of beverage alcohol, including selling drink tickets, serving beverage alcohol, or collecting used drink containers.

    The permit holder should request valid identification (i.e., SGI photo ID) to ensure that service or consumption of beverage alcohol is limited to people who are 19 years of age or older.

     

    Are Special Occasion Permits available for activities involving minors?

    Sporting events including games, tournaments and other competitions (baseball, hockey, dance, etc.) that primarily involve minors as participants are not eligible for a Special Occasion Permit. Events like year-end banquets for players and their families or adult-only fundraisers that support minor sports are typically eligible for Special Occasion Permits.

    How many people can I have at my event?

    There are no limits to the number of guests allowed at a special occasion function.  It is your responsibility to ensure that the premises where you are holding your function is large enough, according to local and provincial fire regulations, to accommodate all of your guests.

     

    Why do I have to pay a re-sale levy?

    Beverage alcohol purchased for Sale events is subject to an additional charge, known as the re-sale levy, at the time of purchase. The re-sale levy is collected by the retail liquor store or Saskatchewan Craft Manufacturer so that the special occasion permittee does not have to charge the Liquor Consumption Tax of 10% on the drinks served at the event

     

    What other responsibilities do I have?

    You must follow The Alcohol and Gaming Regulation Act, 1997 and The Alcohol Control Regulations, 2016 as well as the specific terms and conditions that apply to your permit. The laws that apply to commercial liquor permittees, such as prohibiting service to minors and intoxicated people, also apply to holders of  Special Occasion Permits.

    Sale Special Occasion Permit holders must keep all records for one year after the event. This includes all records detailing transactions relating to the event including:

    • Bank statements
    • Cancelled cheques
    • Deposit books relating to the event bank account
    • All invoices, vouchers or receipts that support disbursements from the event proceeds
    • Records of ticket prices
    • Total attendance numbers

     

    Do I need insurance for my event?

    You are not required by SLGA to have liability insurance for your event; however, it is considered a 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 the event becomes intoxicated and attempts to drive himself home, you may be held liable for any damage 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 via email.

     

    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 by email or by phone, toll free at 1 (800) 667-7565 or (306) 787-5563 in Regina and speak to a Client Services 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 Liquor Licensing and Inspections 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 600 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 do I become a liquor retailer to sell off-sales?
    Retail liquor permits are currently allocated based on the population in a community and the number of existing retailers. To find out if there is a permit available in the municipality where you want to open the store, contact us. Another option is to purchase the rights to a permit from an existing liquor retailer in the municipality where you want to open the store.

     

    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?
    Information about manufacturer permits, 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)?
    Tourism Saskatchewan 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 Serve it Right.


    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 the Workforce Development department of Tourism Saskatchewan 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 Serve it Right.


    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 Tourism Saskatchewan. 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 email: listings@slga.com 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.

    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.

  • 2.7 Designation Of Outdoor Spaces For Alcohol

    When does the change take effect?
    The change to allow municipalities and park authorities in the province to designate outdoor public places such as parks for consumption of beverage alcohol came into effect May 23, 2023.

    Does this mean people can consume alcohol in parks now?
    It means municipalities can make changes to allow the designation of outdoor public places such as parks for consumption of beverage alcohol.

    Are there limits as to how much alcohol can be brought to a park?
    The intent of the change is to give people the opportunity to enjoy beverage alcohol at a small, casual gathering. The provincial regulations don’t speak specifically to limits.

    What rules are expected in areas that have been designated for alcohol consumption by a municipality?
    Provincial rules around liquor consumption will continue to apply. This includes no minors consuming and public intoxication continues to be prohibited.

    If a municipality wants to do this what do they need to do?
    A municipality would have to designate the outdoor space through a bylaw. Municipalities are also required to post the areas and hours where liquor can be consumed. Some municipalities may want to try it on a pilot basis or designate a smaller space or maintain the status quo. It will be up to municipalities to decide what works best.

Gaming

  • 3.8 Casinos

    Where can I get additional information about casino gaming in the province?

    Lotteries and Gaming Saskatchewan (LGS) is a new commercial Crown corporation established to oversee all lotteries and gaming in the province. LGS manages slot machines and table games at Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA) and SaskGaming casinos as well as VLTs located in licensed taverns and lounges throughout the province. Sask Lotteries (operated by Sask Sport and its network of more than 900 retailers) and PlayNow.com, Saskatchewan's only legal online gaming website (operated by SIGA) are also managed by LGS.

    Please visit Lotteries and Gaming Saskatchewan (LGS).

  • 3.9 Video Lottery Terminals

    Where can I get additional information about VLTs?

    Lotteries and Gaming Saskatchewan (LGS) is a new commercial Crown corporation established to oversee all lotteries and gaming in the province. LGS manages slot machines and table games at Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA) and SaskGaming casinos as well as VLTs located in licensed taverns and lounges throughout the province. Sask Lotteries (operated by Sask Sport and its network of more than 900 retailers) and PlayNow.com, Saskatchewan's only legal online gaming website (operated by SIGA) are also managed by LGS.

    Please visit Lotteries and Gaming Saskatchewan (LGS).

     

  • 3.10 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, financial statements 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. 

    What are the current turn-around times for raffle applications?

    Our application processing times for raffles with a prize value of over $2,500 is approximately 30 business days. Please ensure all required documents are submitted to ensure there are no delays in this processing time.

    For raffles with a prize value under $2,500, the processing time is approximately 7 to 10 business days. Additional information may be required if you are a new applicant (or a new charity to SLGA).

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

  • 3.11 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 per SLGA fiscal year. 

    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.

    Infographic - Key points to ensure your group or organization receives a charitable gaming grant

    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

  • 3.12 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

  • 4.13 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, non-medical 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.

  • 4.14 Cannabis Permits

    How do I apply?

    Saskatchewan has an open market system for cannabis retailing and wholesaling. Interested individuals and businesses seeking a cannabis retail or wholesale permit for any community in the province can access application forms 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 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.

     

  • 4.15 Buying Cannabis

    How can I identify legal cannabis products?

    Legal cannabis products have several features to help cannabis consumers differentiate them from illicit cannabis products. Legal cannabis packaging will be plain and have mandatory warning messages. Packages for products other than cannabis plants and seeds will be child-safe. Products other than low-THC dried cannabis and cannabis oil will have Saskatchewan-specific excise stamps. Packages of cannabis extracts, including things like shatter, hash and vape cartridges will have no more than 1,000 mg of THC. Packages of cannabis edibles, including cannabis beverages, may include multiple internal packages, each of which will contain no more than 10 mg of THC. Products will not be attractive to minors or have packaging or branding that is attractive to minors.  No package of cannabis will contain more than the equivalent of 30 g of dried cannabis.

    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, if the customer appears to be under 25.
    • 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?

    Retailers set their own prices for cannabis and cannabis related products.

    Can I buy cannabis online?

    Permitted cannabis retailers are the only legal source for online cannabis purchases. While Cannabis retailers must operate a storefront they also have the option of selling online to Saskatchewan customers. 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. Deliveries must be made to locations in Saskatchewan.

    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.

     

Miscellaneous

  • 5.16 Update Contact Information

    I have an existing account with SLGA. How do I update my contact information?

    You can ask SLGA to update you contact information using the online submission form. Please be sure to indicate if you're a charitable gaming client, retail store permittee, special occasion permit holder, cannabis permittee, etc. To access the submission form click here.