Regulation & Permits
There
are many rules and regulations that must be followed by food and drinking establishments.
We have compiled a list of resources that can be used in starting and running
your business as well as some information that might be helpful.
Food
Establishments
Food Establishment Starter
Guide
A
short two-page guide that gives an overview of what goes into opening a
restaurant with linked resources. The guide talks about business plans,
restaurant design, liquor licences, food safety and human resources.
This
permit is required for anyone that wants to operate a food service
establishment. For example, restaurants, cafes, takeout food, catering,
canteens, or temporary food establishments.
Note
1: Food trucks would be a “Mobile Class 1” permit and market food vendors is a “Public
Market” permit.
Note
2: Eating Establishments that are catering off site need a “Catering Extension”
permit to serve alcohol at the off site catering location.
Food handlers or food hygiene
courses are for those who handle and work with food regularly, like those in
the food service industry. The Food Safety Regulations require that at least
one person per shift must have taken a food safety training course. It’s
recommended that all people working with food take the food safety training
course. The training must be renewed every five years.
Liquor
Establishments
The complete Nova Scotia Liquor Licencing
Regulations. It includes descriptions and costs of the different liquor licenses.
Information
for becoming a licensee of NSLC for both regular orders and special orders of
products that aren't held in stock regularly.
Liquor License Applications
Permanent Liquor License Application
The
application for Eating Establishments, Lounges, Beverage Rooms and Cabarets to
be able to purchase and serve alcohol.
Clubs Liquor License Application
The
application for a permanent liquor license for a Club to be able to purchase
and serve alcohol.
Special
Occasions Liquor License Application
The application for a liquor license for special occasions or events. There are three classes of events that allow different distribution of liquor. See the application for more information.
Manufacturers must have a permit to produce and retail alcoholic beverages. NSLC provides permits for breweries, distilleries, wineries, cideries and more.
If
you have any questions or concerns about Liquor Licenses or the regulations
surrounding them, contact Alcohol and Gaming Services.
Alcohol and Gaming Division
Service Nova Scotia
780 Windmill Road, 2nd Floor
PO Box 545
Dartmouth NS B2Y 3Y8
Fax: 902‐424‐4942
OR
Alcohol and Gaming Division
Service Nova Scotia
1030 Upper Prince Street, Suite #1
Sydney NS B1P 5P6
Fax: 902‐563‐3430
