The Emergency Preparedness and Protective Services Committee has approved proposed updates to the City’s Licensing By‑law aimed at modernizing rules for today’s food industry, supporting local businesses, and cutting unnecessary red tape. The changes would introduce a single license for food businesses that also offer live entertainment, clarify expectations for shared commercial kitchens to improve accountability and transparency, and remove licensing requirements for home‑based businesses producing low‑risk foods such as bread or cookies, provided provincial health standards are met. New tools are also proposed to help address recurring noise and crowd management issues at nightlife venues, balancing a vibrant hospitality scene with neighbourhood impacts. By streamlining the licences, we’ll eliminate duplication in inspection requirements and create other efficiencies.
Existing food premises and amusement place licences would be extended until May 31, 2026, with City Council set to consider the recommendations on Wednesday, April 8.
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