Sunday 13 April 2014

Amendments to WC Liquor Act - Controversial 150 liter per day limit to be scrapped

Western Cape Liquor Act -  The proposed amendments to the Act has just been published for comment.    Click here for a copy of the complete provincial gazette or a comprehensive summary.   The most important proposed amendments affecting the public, are the following : 

No 150 litre per day limit  
A person will be allowed to have any amount of liquor in his/her possession, as long as it is reasonably required by him/her or their family or guests.     Bona fide wine collectors are not limited either anymore.   No more fear of a R100 000 fine or 6 months’ imprisonment!

Temporary and Event licences – longer notice required
It will be required to give 21 days notice before the date of the function (currenty = 14 days). If the late filing of an application is condoned, a 100% fine is payable.

Liquor sold per auction
Confiscated liquor may now be sold by the SAP and a Municipality per public auction.

Inspection by SAP without a warrant
The SAP may inspect a licensed premises without a warrant if the purpose is to ensure compliance with the Liquor Act or licence conditions.

Public Meetings
Public meetings will be held on the following dates and venues to allow the public to provide input on the proposed amendments.   If you, or your clients, have any questions or input to be submitted, we will gladly do it on your behalf. 

Cape Town  -  (Town Hall,  Darling Street – 16 April from 09h00 – 12h00)
George        -  (Town Hall, Banquet Hall, York Street – 22 April  from 10h00 – 13h00)
Saldanha     -   (Diazville community hall – 25 April from 10h00 – 13h00)
(Summary by LiquorWise)