PORT COQUITLAM, B.C. - June 10, 2026...The City of Port Coquitlam's Committee of Council has recommended a package of regulatory improvements to better support the local hospitality industry, following the completion of the Mayor's Hospitality Roundtable process. The recommendations address longstanding gaps in zoning and liquor licensing regulations, and set out a direction for enhanced communication and senior government advocacy.
Chaired by Mayor Brad West, the Mayor's Hospitality Roundtable brings together nine members with backgrounds in the local hospitality sector. Members include Jesse Bannister (Port Coquitlam BIA), Jennifer McKinnon (Tri-City Chamber of Commerce), Cassandra Curtis (Cassandra Cake Co.), Sarah Harbord (Patina Brewing Co.), Bridgette Hyun (C Market Coffee), Pam Karabotsos (Pallas Athena), Brian Orrange (Orrange Kitchen + Bar), Aly Sunderji (Samz Pub and Liquor Store), and Kass Tucker (Earls). The roundtable's mandate focuses on four areas:
zoning bylaw amendments,
liquor license approval changes,
collaboration and communication enhancements, and
senior government advocacy.
"Our hospitality businesses are a vital part of what makes Port Coquitlam a great place to live. The work of this roundtable is a direct result of listening to the people running these businesses every day," said Mayor Brad West. "Communities that succeed are communities that adapt. By modernizing our hospitality regulations, we’re creating the conditions for local businesses to innovate, grow, and contribute to our city's vibrancy."
Modernizing Zoning Regulations
The recommended zoning bylaw amendments would remove outdated definitions, including references to cabarets, dance clubs, dance floor size restrictions, and amusement machines. The amendments would also add “entertainment facilities” as a permitted use, reflecting how the sector has evolved and helping to remove barriers for businesses seeking to offer live events and entertainment.
Streamlining Liquor License Approvals
Proposed changes to the liquor license approval process would improve administrative efficiency by distinguishing between minor and major applications. Routine, low-impact, and compliant requests, such as temporary changes and minor endorsements, would be handled through a delegated staff process. More significant applications, such as new liquor retail stores or liquor primary venues, would continue to follow the full Council review process.
Provincial Advocacy
The City will also advocate to the Province for regulatory improvements that go beyond municipal jurisdiction, including standardized occupant load confirmation processes, shorter liquor license review timelines, and improvements to supply chain structure for the hospitality sector.
The recommendations from Committee of Council will proceed to a future Council meeting for a final decision. The package includes proposed amendments to the Zoning Bylaw, Development Procedures Bylaw, Delegation of Authority Bylaw, Business Bylaw, Fees and Charges Bylaw, and the City’s Liquor Policy. Staff have also been directed to implement the communication, collaboration, and advocacy directions outlined in the report.
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