Collingwood, ON [21 April 2026] – Following a comprehensive review, including stakeholder consultation, Council has decided the Town will not be permitting Bring-Your-Own (BYO) events at this time.
Effective April 30, 2026, the Province of Ontario is making a regulatory change such that, with approval by both the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) and municipalities that agree, attendees at specified events who are aged 19 and over can bring and consume their own alcohol within a defined area.
“While the Province has enabled municipalities to consider Bring-Your-Own alcohol events, Council agreed that Collingwood is not ready to permit them at this time,” says Deputy Mayor Fryer. “Our priority is ensuring public safety, protecting community well being, and supporting responsible, well managed events for residents and visitors alike.”
With an appropriate Special Occasion Permit (SOP) from the AGCO and municipal authorization from the Town, events in Collingwood will continue to be able to serve alcohol.
While municipalities are now allowed to permit BYO events under the revised provincial regulation, they are not required to do so.
Town staff recommended that Collingwood not permit BYO events at this time based on:
Risk Management and Insurance Advice
Insurance advisors noted that permitting BYO events would undermine existing safeguards used to protect public safety and manage alcohol related risk.
Enforcement and Public Safety
BYO alcohol consumed in public spaces would place additional pressures on event organizers, who remain legally responsible for AGCO permit conditions under the Act, and municipal services, including by law enforcement, policing, fire and emergency services, parks operations, and event oversight.
Health and Social Impacts
The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit provided data demonstrating that alcohol related harm remains a significant public health issue in the region. Alcohol use is associated annually with thousands of emergency department visits, hundreds of hospitalizations, and a substantial number of preventable deaths. Evidence consistently shows that increased availability of alcohol leads to increased consumption and related harms, and public consumption has the potential to further normalize alcohol use in community spaces.
Economic Impact
No clear economic benefits were identified through consultation. Feedback from the business community noted concerns about public safety, cleanup costs, and potential impacts on licensed establishments, such as restaurants and bars. The Downtown BIA Board has indicated it does not support pursuing BYO events at this time.
Looking Ahead
The Town will continue to monitor how other municipalities respond to the provincial regulatory changes, local stakeholder input and remain attentive to future provincial amendments that may address current concerns. Should circumstances change Council can make decisions to adjust Collingwood’s approach.
Important Reminder About Alcohol Consumption in Public
In the Town of Collingwood, alcohol may only be consumed in licensed establishments, private residences, or at permitted events that have received AGCO approval and municipal authorization. Drinking alcohol in parks, streets, beaches, and other public spaces remains prohibited unless a permit is in place.
The Town of Collingwood is committed to balancing vibrant community events with public safety, health, and responsible alcohol management.
