On April 29, 2025, City Council approved an amendment to the Business Licence Bylaw. This amendment aligns with provincial regulation changes, enabling temporary cannabis sales at 18+ only entertainment events and trade shows, prioritizing Calgary-based retailers at local events.
“This amendment marks a significant step forward for Calgary, aligning our local regulations with provincial changes and supporting our city’s vibrant entertainment scene,” says Michael Briegel, Deputy Chief, Business Safety. “By allowing cannabis sales at 18+ events, we are ensuring compliance and implementing safety measures to protect minors.”
Effective May 15, 2025, the bylaw allows cannabis sales at 18+ entertainment events. The Business Licence Bylaw now includes the following requirements:
· Cannabis sales remain strictly prohibited at events where minors are present.
· Only local retailers with an active or current business licence may sell cannabis products at 18+ only entertainment events, pending AGLC approval for temporary licence extensions.
Previously existing rules stated that event organizers must confine cannabis consumption to designated areas and cannot sell or sample cannabis products within cannabis consumption areas.
“The new bylaw is a positive change for local businesses,” says Briegel. “This opens doors for Calgary cannabis businesses to engage in large events, strengthening community bonds and boosting the local economy.”
Festivals and events make Calgary a vibrant place to live and an attractive city to visit. Allowing cannabis sales at 18+ only entertainment events support business-friendly initiatives, the Eventful City Strategy and provides business growth opportunities for existing cannabis retailers located in Calgary.
Changes to the bylaw ensure safer cannabis sales at festivals without changing existing use regulations about where it can be consumed and builds on the safe sales environment already established for alcohol.
For more information about this change to the Business Licence Bylaw, please visit calgary.ca/cannabisstores.
