Ontario Permitting “Bring-Your- Own” Alcoholic Beverages (BYOB) at Outdoor Public Events

The Province of Ontario announced regulatory changes under the Liquor Licence and Control Act, 2019 that would permit “bring-your-own” alcoholic beverage (BYOB) consumption at certain public events, effective April 30, 2026.

The expanded permit will allow people who attend municipally designated cultural or community outdoor public events to bring their own alcohol for consumption in designated areas. For a bring-your-own permit to be issued, municipalities must have passed a bylaw authorizing the use of alcohol in public (if they do not already have one). A municipality must also designate the public event as a cultural or community event. Event organizers can then apply for a bring-your-own permit through the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO).   

Given the misalignment with the Township’s Municipal Alcohol Policy, resourcing impacts and increased liability and safety risks, Council directed staff at the May 25, 2026 Regular Session of Council not to bring forward a by-law required for permitting “bring your own” alcoholic beverages (BYOB) at outdoor public events within the Township of Stone Mills at this time. Staff will continue to monitor implementation across Ontario and may report back to Council if future consideration is warranted.

Related Links

• News Release: Ontario Permitting “Bring-Your-Own” Alcoholic Beverages at Outdoor Public Events
• Legislation & Regulation