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For · Security staff

Smart Serve for security and door staff

Security staff are named in the AGCO’s training standard: a licensee must make sure the security staff it employs hold a valid certificate from an approved course. At a stadium, that includes security the licensee uses.

Your job at the door, by the rules

  • ID: where the licence bars people under 19, ID must be checked before admitting anyone who appears under 19. Use good light and hold the card yourself. ID guide.
  • Intoxication: the AGCO says door staff should be trained to spot intoxication and refuse entry to anyone who appears intoxicated.
  • Capacity: the count includes staff, and separate licensed areas can’t be combined. Know the limit for each area.
  • Outside: the licensee must take reasonable steps to deter disorderly conduct near the premises; the AGCO suggests door staff check outside periodically.
  • Inspectors and police: AGCO inspectors and police on duty must be given access.

Handling trouble

  • Stay calm and professional, involve a manager, and call police when needed.
  • Note a description of anyone who becomes abusive.
  • The licensee must not permit drugs, unlawful gambling or disorderly conduct on the premises.
  • Keep an incident log and review it with the team.

Practise with the ID quiz or the full practice test.

Questions people ask

+Do bouncers need Smart Serve in Ontario?

Yes, if the licensee employs them as security. The AGCO’s Registrar’s standard names security staff the licensee employs, or at a stadium uses, as people who must hold a valid certificate.

+Can door staff refuse entry to someone who is intoxicated?

Yes. The AGCO recommends refusing entry to anyone who appears intoxicated, and suggests a door sign saying management may refuse entry to intoxicated or underage people.

Sources

Updated October 26, 2026. Not affiliated with Smart Serve Ontario or the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO).

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