Alcohol in parks program

After a successful pilot program, the responsible consumption of alcohol in select parks across the District will continue to be permitted this summer.

When enjoying these spaces, please drink responsibly and be considerate of other parks users. We also ask that you help us keep our parks clean for all to enjoy by being responsible for your garbage and recycling — pack out what you pack in.

Alcohol consumption is permitted from 11am to dusk daily at the following parks:

  • Arborlynn 
  • Bridgman 
  • Carisbrooke 
  • Deep Cove 
  • Eldon 
  • Garibaldi 
  • Kilmer 
  • Kirkstone
  • McCartney Creek 
  • Panorama 
  • Princess 
  • Seylynn 
  • Sowden 
  • Strathcona 
     

 

Please note that alcohol may not be be consumed in the following areas:

  • within 10 metres of playgrounds, sport courts and skate bowls
  • playing fields when in use for games or events
  • artificial turf fields at any time
  • trails, pathways and forested areas
  • any buildings or structures

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the important role our public spaces play in our community's physical and mental health. These highly-valued areas provide a safe and open place for residents to gather and socialize.

At the June 21, 2021, regular meeting, Council instructed staff to explore options for implementing a similar pilot project for summer 2021 that would permit responsible alcohol consumption in select public spaces. On July 26, 2021, Council adopted a bylaw allowing alcohol in certain parks.

Following a successful pilot program in the summer of 2021, staff provided an information report to Council on February 8, 2022, recommending the program's continuation.  

Results and feedback provided by 90 survey participants about the pilot program were overwhelmingly positive, with 92% of respondents indicating support for continuing the program.

Neighbouring municipalities have also introduced bylaws allowing the responsible consumption of alcohol in designated parks.

Related information 

Consumption of Liquor in Public Places Bylaw (8520)

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