CENTRE WELLINGTON – Centre Wellington Council will consider adopting a new Municipal Alcohol Policy at its meeting Monday afternoon, replacing the Township’s existing Alcohol Risk Management Policy that has been in place since 2007.
The report, which will be presented at the 2 p.m. meeting, recommends council authorize the Mayor and Clerk to adopt the updated policy through a by-law.
According to the report, the proposed policy reflects nearly two decades of changes to provincial legislation, Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) requirements, and industry best practices surrounding alcohol service at municipal facilities.
The new policy establishes a more comprehensive framework for the safe service and consumption of alcohol on Township-owned properties while aiming to improve public safety, administrative consistency, and reduce municipal liability.
Among the most notable changes are stricter insurance requirements, enhanced emergency planning, increased responsibilities for event organizers, and formal authority for Township staff to address unsafe or non-compliant events.
The policy would also formally prohibit several higher-risk event types on Township property, including stag-and-doe and engagement parties, Bring-Your-Own-Alcohol events, tailgate Special Occasion Permit events, and alcohol service at youth-focused or minor sports events.
The report notes that stag-and-doe and engagement parties have not been permitted on Township property since 2022 as part of the Township’s administrative risk management practices. The new policy would formally incorporate that practice into municipal policy.
Community groups and facility renters hosting licensed events would also face new planning and compliance requirements, including earlier application deadlines, increased insurance coverage, emergency planning measures, safe transportation strategies, and, where appropriate, security and staffing requirements.
Township staff says they will provide updated application forms, checklists, and guidance materials to help community organizations adjust to the new requirements.
If approved by council, the Township will update its booking procedures, renter communications and internal administrative processes ahead of the policy taking effect in January 2027.
You can find the full report here.
