BC Government News Release: Extending temporary patios through summer to support BC businesses

Details from this BC Government news release:

Restaurants, pubs, and other hospitality establishments that had temporary outdoor patios approved for FIFA World Cup 2026 can now apply to keep them open through summer.

This will help businesses build on the momentum generated by the tournament, while providing British Columbians and visitors with more outdoor dining and gathering opportunities.

“BC’s hospitality sector has stepped up in a big way during the FIFA World Cup 2026, creating vibrant spaces for people to celebrate together while giving a huge boost to local businesses,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food. “By extending these wonderful patio spaces through the summer, B.C. restaurants, pubs and businesses can keep the momentum going, support jobs and continue to deliver the welcoming experiences for visitors and locals to enjoy.”

Government is providing an opportunity for eligible licensees with approved FIFA World Cup 2026 related outdoor Temporary Extensions of Licensed Areas throughout B.C. to apply to extend those approvals through Sept. 6, 2026. The Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB) will be working with local governments, such as the City of Vancouver, to help businesses benefit from this extension quickly and efficiently.

“Vancouver has rediscovered what’s possible when we put people at the heart of our city,” said Ken Sim, mayor of Vancouver. “Granville Street has been full of energy, local businesses are seeing more customers, and residents and visitors have told us loud and clear they want this momentum to continue. Extending the pilot through the summer gives businesses the certainty they need, supports our local economy, and allows us to gather even more data as we continue delivering on the long-term vision for Granville Street.”

The extension is expected to provide a range of benefits, including:

• supporting restaurants, pubs and other hospitality businesses during the peak summer tourism season
• helping businesses maintain revenue and staffing levels following the FIFA World Cup 2026
• creating more opportunities for outdoor dining and social gatherings
• enhancing the visitor experience throughout B.C.
• supporting local tourism and economic activity

“We’re thrilled to see the Province extend temporary patios through Labour Day weekend,” said Ian Tostenson, president and CEO, BC Restaurant and Foodservices Association. “Patios have become one of the best parts of a B.C. summer, bringing people together, supporting local restaurants, and adding life to our streets and neighbourhoods. We hope municipalities jump on board quickly so everyone can enjoy a few more weeks of great food, good company, and the best of BC hospitality.”

This extension builds on the Province’s ongoing work to support B.C.’s hospitality and tourism sectors, strengthen local economies and create welcoming spaces where people can gather safely and responsibly.

Learn more: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2026AF0016-000791