Summary of 3-step approval process for Expansion or Relocation

The approval process for a bingo facility expansion or relocation consists of three steps:

Step one… The AGLC will conduct an initial assessment to determine whether a proposed expansion or relocation meets the basic criteria related to market demand, benefits to charitable groups, and impact on other charitable gaming activities in the community. A bingo facility licensee initiates this step by providing the AGLC with a written proposal for the expansion or relocation of an existing bingo facility.

Step two… The Board of the AGLC may* consider community support, or the lack thereof, as expressed through the municipal council. The AGLC may formally notify the council that they have received a request for expansion or relocation, and may conclude the process if in the Board’s view the council does not support a proposed change to a bingo facility within the community. If the council is silent and there is no demonstrated opposition to an expansion or relocation, the Board at its discretion may decide to continue to the application process.

Following Step two, the AGLC would address the request for a private operator through a thorough due diligence investigation. Due diligence would only be conducted if a private operator is proposed by the applicant.

Step three… If all requirements for a bingo facility are met (federal and provincial legislation, regulation and policies, and municipal requirements, permits, licences or authorizations), the AGLC will approve or licence the expansion or relocation.

*The Board may decide to waive the requirement (Community Support) if the relocation of a licensed facility is for the purpose of essentially attracting the same player base or serving the same market area of that of the facility in its present location.