A new survey suggests most Halifax residents want limits on alcohol advertising but are not concerned about the sale of alcohol at public events.

Halifax councilors have been working on a Municipal Alcohol Policy since 2012. During a debate in April 2014 some felt that more consultation was needed.

Corporate Research Associates was hired and 1,100 people were called over a two week period between Jan. 28 and Feb. 15, 2015.

The results show that 79 per cent of people surveyed were OK with alcohol being sold at public events. When asked about the municipality co-sponsoring an event with an alcohol company, 80 per cent said they were fine with that.

More than two-thirds were also agreeable to the idea of alcohol companies funding free transit for municipal festivals or public events.

When asked about alcohol advertising at municipal facilities such as arenas or fields, 58 per cent disagreed with that. Alcohol advertising on public transit, shelters or benches was not supported by 62 per cent of respondents.

Want changes to bar hours

There is also interest in making changes in Halifax's bar scene.

At 77 per cent, a significant number of those polled think licensed facilities should stop serving alcohol after 2 a.m.

Respondents cited violence, safety issues and binge drinking as reasons for limiting bar hours. They also strongly supported more training for bar staff on responsible alcohol service.

Both issues fall under provincial jurisdiction.

A new staff report suggests municipal officials will work with the province to encourage a review of the policies on the availability of alcohol as well as mandatory training for bar staff similar to other Canadian cities.

HRM staff say the survey is accurate within 2.9 per cent, 95 times out of a 100.

It has also been weighted by age, gender and community to represent the municipality's population distribution.