Approval process
The approval process for a casino facility expansion or relocation consists of three steps:
Step one
- Casino operator must submit a written proposal for the expansion or relocation of an existing casino. Proposal should be submitted in writing directly to AGLC.
- AGLC will conduct an initial assessment and determine if a proposed expansion or relocation meets basic criteria, including market demand, benefits to charitable groups, and impact on other charitable gaming activities in the community.
- AGLC will determine if the project is allowed to move forward to step two in the process.
Step two
- AGLC requires that the applicant posts proposed move in local media to allow the community an opportunity to voice their support or objections to the proposed move. AGLC will determine if the proposed project can move forward to step three in the process.
Step three
- If all requirements for a gaming facility are met (federal and provincial legislation, regulations, policies and municipal requirements, permits, licences or authorizations) AGLC will approve or licence the expansion or relocation.
Casino expansions and relocations FAQs
What is considered a relocation?
A relocation means moving an existing venue to a new location within the casino's current distinct market area.
What is considered an expansion?
An expansion means the significant physical expansion of the gaming area in a casino. It may include an expansion of the building envelope (the outer perimeter of the building) or its outer dimensions (height).
What are distinct market areas and how are they defined?
AGLC updated the casino relocation policy to include distinct market areas within the province:
- Edmonton includes Leduc County, Parkland County, Strathcona County, and Sturgeon County.
- Calgary includes Rocky View County.
All other Alberta markets are defined by the Census Consolidated Subdivision that they reside in.
What is the process for a casino expansion or relocation?
Applicants for a casino expansion or relocation must go through AGLC’s three step casino expansion or relocation process.
Recent changes to the process include:
- Providing a clear definition of a relocation and creating distinct market areas for the province. A casino or REC is now able to apply to AGLC to move within their market area.
- Consolidating and clarifying the list of factors that are used by AGLC for the initial assessment of applications.
- Adding additional criteria a casino or REC must address before moving forward in the approval process.
- Increased notice period for allowing objections to be submitted as well as increased time for providing responses to objections.
This approach balances supporting casino and REC development and revenue growth potential with ensuring eligible charities continue to have access to casino events.
Who makes the decision to approve a casino expansion or relocation?
Under the requirements of the Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Act and Regulation all expansion and relocation decisions are made by AGLC’s Board, which is independent of government.
Does AGLC Board take into account the potential impact of a casino expansion or relocation on a community?
Yes. A proposal for casino expansion or relocation must meet basic criteria related to market demand, benefits to charitable groups and impact on other charitable gaming activities in the community. As well, the proposal must include the following information:
- anticipated impact of the expansion or relocation upon other existing charitable gaming facilities in the community, including cannibalization rate
- estimated economic impact on the community, for example, number of new jobs created, impact on other businesses in the community, etc
- impact on parking and traffic flow
Will communities be allowed to provide input?
The applicant must post notice in the local media of the proposed move for at least two weeks. AGLC may also contact the municipality concerning the proposed move to solicit their views.
If I want to provide my input to the Board on a proposed casino expansion or relocation, how do I do that?
Letters may be sent to:
Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis
Attn: Chair of the Board
50 Corriveau Avenue
St. Albert, AB T8N 3T5