BC is lifting many of the COVID-19 restrictions that have been in place for months, so long as people continue to wear masks and prove they are fully vaccinated.
At midnight on Wednesday, Feb. 16, many of the restrictions will be lifted for gatherings, events and restaurants.
What's changing?
- Indoor personal gatherings return to normal
- Indoor and outdoor organized gatherings can return to full capacity. Dancing allowed.
- No restrictions on sports tournaments
- Fitness centres, adult sports, dance, swimming can return to full capacity. Masks and BC Vaccine Card required.
- Restaurants, bars and nightclubs can return to full capacity. No table limits. Mingling and dancing allowed. Masks and BC Vaccine Card required.
- All indoor seated events can return to full capacity. Masks and BC Vaccine Card required
- Global Travel Advisory has been adjusted
- PCR tests no longer required for travellers returning to Canada [effective Feb. 28]
What's staying the same?
- Masks required in all indoor public settings
- BC Vaccine Card to access many businesses, events and services
- Businesses and employers must have a COVID-19 Safety Plan in place
- Long-term care visitation restrictions (1 social + 1 essential visitor) remain in place
- Restrictions on worship services
- Restrictions on child and youth overnight camps
- K-to-12 and child care safety guidelines
The changes have been made in response to high vaccination rates by the general public and as COVID-19 hospitalizations continue to fall.
Get your Booster Shot
If you are not yet fully vaccinated (two shots), please book an appointment today! It can decrease your risk of severe disease and hospitalization due to COVID-19. If you are fully vaccinated and your second shot was over six months ago, be sure to get your booster. Pregnant people are at higher risk due to COVID-19 and are eligible for a booster shot eight weeks after their second dose. The efficacy of all vaccines fades over time, which is why boosters are needed for optimal protection.
