Know Your Liquor and Cannabis Officials

To ensure your safety and that of your staff and business, it’s important to know who your liquor and cannabis officials are.

In the past, there have been instances where staff in licensed businesses are confronted by Liquor & Cannabis Inspectors that they do not know. This is not unusual, as government staff frequently change or move around. You may also receive a visit from a new inspector or one that is not local to your area.

In a few circumstances, people have falsely represented themselves as Liquor & Cannabis Inspectors to gain entry to establishments or events. As a result, it is important that both licensees and staff know what to do should someone they do not know come to their place of business and introduce themselves as an Inspector.

Liquor & cannabis inspectors in BC carry a two-part official ID which consists of a card bearing their name, a photograph, and the BC government logo. The second part is a gold-coloured metal badge, similar to a police badge. This badge will bear the Liquor & Cannabis Regulation Branch crest, along with the word Inspector and a badge number. The badge number may also be recorded on the card portion of the ID.

If someone announces themselves as an Inspector, and you have not previously met them, you should ask to see their ID to verify who they are. This should be done as discreetly and quickly as possible to ensure that the Inspector is not highlighted to patrons of the business and that no obstruction to their role takes place. A genuine Inspector will have no issue presenting their ID upon request.

Please note that a business card should not be considered proof of ID unless you know the person presenting it.