‘Pedal pubs’ can start serving alcohol this summer, Ontario government says

Toronto Pedal Pub posted a photo of one of their pedicabs in the city on social media. (https://www.pedalpub.com/)

The Ontario government will allow alcohol on board so-called “pedal pubs” this summer.

Popular on downtown city streets, the large quadricycles can carry 12 or more people at one time and transport groups along a set route, often stopping at pubs and other destinations on the way.

Previously, alcohol was not permitted on board the bike due to provincial liquor laws.

However, the province says that will change starting July 1 for tour operators in Toronto, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ottawa and Windsor.

“Pedal pubs offer a fun and memorable way to explore Ontario’s communities, and we’re making sure that experience is responsible,” Attorney General Doug Downey said in a news release Friday. “Beginning this summer, Ontario is supporting a unique opportunity that will not only stimulate tourism and bring communities together, but also protect local jobs, our economy and small businesses across the province.”

The province says a licence from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) will be required to sell and serve alcohol on pedal pubs. Pedal pubs can only operate after a local municipality passes a by-law to permit their operations.

Alcohol sales in Ontario have expanded in recent years, with Premier Doug Ford making good on a 2018 campaign promise last year to bring beer and wine to convenience stores across the province.