Starting Monday, September 13, the City of Port Coquitlam will join organizations and businesses across BC in requiring proof of vaccination—the BC Vaccine Card—for certain discretionary activities as outlined by the provincial government.

The Provincial Health Officer has ordered that, starting September 13, 2021, you must have at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine to access some events, services, and businesses. By October 24, you must be fully vaccinated. The requirement will be in place until January 31, 2022 and could be extended.

As we have throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the City continues to follow the guidance and direction of the Provincial Health Officer and Fraser Health. Implementing BC Vaccine Card procedures is required in order to comply with legislation.

Proof of vaccination and photo ID will be required for those 22 years and older who wish to participate in indoor adult fitness, sport and other physically active programs. Patrons unable to provide the required documentation will not be allowed to participate in these recreation programs. Proof of vaccination will not be required for preschool, children, and youth programs.

To access any of the following services at Hyde Creek Recreation or the Port Coquitlam Community Centre, patrons will be required to provide verification of vaccination status by order of the Provincial Health Officer:

• Fitness Classes
• Weight Rooms
• Sport Activities
• Adult arena sports
• Any event or activity with 50+ people attending, such as hockey games with spectators.

Proof of vaccination is not required for physical activities, sport or fitness for individuals 21 years and younger. It is also not required at swimming pools or when visiting the Terry Fox Public Library. Library staff are available to assist residents who need help applying for the vaccine card.

Community and sport user groups will be responsible for verifying proof of vaccination for participants and spectators for indoor adult group and team sports, and gatherings with more than 50 people as per the PHO order.

If you plan to participate in one of our indoor adult fitness or sport programs, please arrive early to allow time for the check-in process. We kindly ask for your patience and understanding as we all adjust to this new requirement. For questions, please email Recreation at recreation@portcoquitlam.ca or call 604.927.7529 (PLAY). The procedures for checking vaccine cards and identification will be updated as needed to reflect any changes made to the order by the Provincial Health Officer.

These new orders will not have an impact in other civic facilities such as City Hall, Public Works, City Hall (Annex) and the Fire Halls. Residents are reminded that people aged 12 years and older must wear masks in indoor public settings, regardless of vaccination status and when not engaged in physical activity. Physical distancing is not required but recommended for individuals participating in physical activities.

Stay Informed

For more information visit portcoquitlam.ca/restart or follow the City social media channels for updates.

Please visit the B.C. government’s website to learn more about places where your vaccine card is required for entry.

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MEDIA CONTACTS

Ximena Ibacache
Manager of Communications & Administrative Services
City of Port Coquitlam
Tel 604.927.5499
Email ibacachex@portcoquitlam.ca