City staff have been directed to study the pros and cons of extending last call in Toronto, and how to better manage the city's night-time economy.
Councillors on the economic development committee have asked for a report, after the music industry came forward with a request to let them stay open and serve alcohol later in the night.
Staff are expected to take about a year to study the extension of licensing hours and community safety.
They will also look at late night transportation.
Spencer Sutherland, a nightclub owner who is leading the charge to put more focus on the night-time economy, says subway service already ends before last call and he'd like the city to consider extending the hours.
Councillor Michael Thompson, chair of the economic development committee, says staff have to look at the cost benefit analysis, in terms of whether there would be enough riders to cover the cost of longer hours.
"I think we have to be fair-minded about it," Thompson says.
He estimates the staff report will be ready for consideration next fall.