When planning a wedding or event in British Columbia, few things set the tone like a perfectly poured glass of champagne or a signature cocktail shared among guests. But before the bar opens, there’s one essential step every couple and host must take — securing a Special Event Permit (SEP).

An SEP authorizes the service or sale of alcohol at weddings, fundraisers, and private celebrations, ensuring your event aligns with BC’s Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB) laws. It’s quick, affordable, and gives you peace of mind that your special day is fully compliant and responsibly hosted.

💡 In short: If alcohol is being served anywhere outside a licensed establishment or private home, you likely need an SEP.

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🌿 Why It Matters

Obtaining your SEP is more than a formality, it’s a vital step that keeps your celebration safe, lawful, and stress-free.

• Legal Compliance: Avoid costly fines or disruptions to your event.
• Guest Safety: Encourages responsible service and protects your guests.
• Professional Presentation: Shows your vendors, venue, and guests that your event is being hosted with care and attention to detail.

Even small backyard weddings and elopements in BC may require a permit if alcohol is served outside of a licensed venue or private home.

For more details, visit:
🔗 BC Special Event Permit Overview – gov.bc.ca
🔗 SEP Policy Manual (PDF)

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💍 Applying for Your Wedding SEP

The BC Special Event Permit online application system is straightforward, and many events are approved instantly when no additional police or LCRB review is required.

Step-by-Step:

1. Start Early
   Apply 4–6 weeks before your wedding to allow for reviews, corrections, or re-submissions if needed.
2. Designate Your Applicant
   The permit holder must:
   • Be 19 years or older
   • Hold a valid Serving It Right or Special Event Server certification
   • Be present for the entire duration of the event
   • Not consume alcohol during service hours
   A responsible family member or close friend who will attend but not drink is often the best choice.
3. Complete the Application
   Visit the official BC Government portal:
   👉 Apply for a Special Event Permit You’ll need:
   • Date and location of your event
   • Expected guest count
   • Event duration and alcohol service hours
   • Layout plan of your alcohol service area
   • Names and Serving It Right numbers of all servers
4. Pay the Application Fee
   Most private events cost $25 per day/location unless alcohol is being sold, in which case additional approvals may apply.
5. Check the Wedding Planning Guide
   The BC Liquor Distribution Branch provides a helpful guide to estimate quantities and service details:
   📄 Wedding Planning Guide (BCLDB)
6. Keep All Documentation On Site
   During your event, you must have:
   • Your approved SEP
   • Serving It Right or Special Event Server certificates for each bartender/server
   • Receipts for all liquor purchased
   • Site plan outlining service areas
   • Incident log for any service-related issues
7. Follow Responsible Service Guidelines
   Ensure alcohol is not served to minors or intoxicated guests, and arrange for safe transportation home after the event.

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🏢 For Business & Corporate Events

If you’re hosting a staff party or client event, here’s how it differs:

• You do not need an SEP if the event is after business hours, for employees and invited guests only, and drinks are not sold.
• You do need an SEP if your event is:
  • Open to the public or includes ticket sales
  • During normal business hours
  • Serving alcohol beyond a standard workplace hospitality setting

Even if your event is private, applying for an SEP is still best practice, it clarifies liability and ensures coverage for your venue.

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📝 Wedding & Event SEP Checklist

Before your celebration begins, make sure you’re ready:

✅ Apply 4–6 weeks before your event date using the BC SEP Application Portal.
✅ Choose an applicant who is 19+, sober for the event, and certified with Serving It Right.
✅ Collect all event details including guest count, location, and bar layout.
✅ Prepare a simple site plan showing your defined service area.
✅ Use the BCLDB Wedding Planning Guide to calculate quantities.
✅ Keep all required documentation on site: SEP approval, SIR certificates, receipts, and incident log.
✅ End alcohol service at your approved time and ensure guests have safe rides home.

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A Special Event Permit might seem like a small step in your wedding planning journey, but it’s one of the most important. It ensures your day flows smoothly, legally, and safely, allowing you to celebrate freely, surrounded by love and laughter.

Whether your event is a mountaintop elopement, an elegant resort reception, or an intimate backyard dinner, having your SEP in place ensures every toast and cheers is worry-free.

✨ Living in Love Events — helping couples plan weddings that are as seamless as they are unforgettable.