Transportation of Liquor Addressed in Legislation

N.S. LIQUOR CORP.--Transportation of Liquor Addressed in Legislation

Responsible drivers in Nova Scotia will not be prosecuted for having unopened liquor in any area of a motor vehicle.

The change is the result of amendments to the Liquor Control Act introduced today, April 19, by Ernest Fage, Minister responsible for the Liquor Control Act.

"We wanted to clarify this piece of legislation to ensure that the real issue is addressed, and that is the issue of having opened liquor in the passenger compartment of a vehicle," said Mr. Fage. "Sealed, unopened liquor is allowed in any area of a vehicle."

As a result of the changes, previously opened liquor, which has been recapped or recorked, may be transported in the trunk or another part of a vehicle designed for carrying baggage or goods; behind the rear seat of vehicles that do not have a trunk (such as vans, hatch-backs); or in an exterior compartment, such as the bed of a truck. Further, liquor may be transported under a licence or permit that is issued under the act.

The changes also outline how liquor is to be transported on a motorcycle, off-highway vehicle and other recreational vehicles. Specifically, the Act will now allow previously opened liquor to be transported in a baggage compartment or otherwise inaccessible area.

The opened liquor cannot be readily accessible to the driver or passengers.

Cases where liquor is open -- the cap or cork is removed -- in a motor vehicle will continue to be prosecuted.

Additional changes to the Act include permitting the transportation of liquor to any location where a person is permitted to have or consume liquor. Previously, liquor could only be transported to a place of residence.