How to Start a Charity Fundraiser in Calgary with an AGLC Special Event Licence (SEL)

Planning a charity fundraiser in Calgary that serves alcohol? You’ll need a Special Event Licence (SEL) from AGLC (Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis). Use this guide to choose the right SEL type (public community or private), prepare your documents, and apply on time.

Step 1 — Choose the Right SEL Type

  • Public SEL – Community (recommended for most charity fundraisers): Your event is open to the public and hosted by a non-profit or a municipality (e.g., a registered charity). ProServe is required for the licensee/designates and at least 25% of bartenders/servers must be certified and on-site for the full event.
  • Private SEL (invited guests or members only):
    • Private non-sale: Guests are invited and liquor is provided at no charge.
    • Private resale: Invited guests pay for admission or drinks (typical charity “ticket + toonie bar”).

Step 2 — Prepare Calgary & Event Documents

  • Venue & floor plan: Calgary venue contract and a simple layout showing alcohol service areas, ID check points, and capacity.
  • City items: Check any site/park/arena booking conditions (fire/occupancy, security notes). Most events don’t need a separate City liquor licence, but you still need AGLC’s SEL.
  • Staffing: Plan for ProServe-certified staff (and ProTect for security if required by venue/event scope).

Step 3 — Apply for the SEL

  1. Timeline: Apply at least 14 days before your fundraiser (more for larger/public events).
  2. Where to apply: Use AGLC’s Online Licensing Portal and select the correct SEL type (Public Community for most charity fundraisers, or Private Non-sale/Resale if invite-only).
  3. Fees: Private non-sale ($10) and private resale ($25). Public SEL fees are listed in AGLC’s fee schedule.

Step 4 — Service Rules & Compliance

  • ProServe coverage: Meet the minimum requirements for your SEL type; keep certificates available on-site.
  • ID checks & signage: Post legal drinking age signage and manage entrance/ID as per your plan.
  • Keep licences on-site: Have a printed (or digital) copy of your SEL and any venue/City approvals during the event.

Step 5 — (Optional) Add Gaming or Raffles

If your fundraiser includes raffles, 50/50s, or other gaming activities, you may also need a separate charitable gaming licence from AGLC. Confirm your organization’s eligibility and apply through AGLC’s charitable gaming stream.

Quick Checklist — Charity Fundraiser (Calgary)

  • □ Pick SEL type: Public Community (public, non-profit host) or Private (invite-only).
  • □ Secure Calgary venue, capacity & layout (with service areas and ID checks).
  • □ Apply via AGLC Online Portal (target 14+ days before event).
  • □ Staff training: ProServe (and ProTect if required).
  • □ Bring SEL + approvals to the event; plan for inspections.
  • □ If doing raffles/50-50: apply for charitable gaming separately.

Resources

  • AGLC — Public Special Event Licences (Community & Commercial)
  • AGLC — Private Special Event Licences (Non-sale & Resale)
  • AGLC — ProServe Training (SMART Programs)
  • AGLC — Fee Schedule
  • City of Calgary — Festival & Event Planning (venue/permit guidance)

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