BC Controlled Substances Exemption Restricted at Playgrounds, Water Parks, Skate Parks

Following advocacy by many local governments, British Columbia’s controlled substance possession exemption has been further restricted, such that possession of small quantities of controlled substances for personal use will no longer be permitted in additional child-focused spaces.

As of Monday, September 18, 2023, the Health Canada exemption that decriminalizes controlled substances in BC will no longer apply within 15 metres of:

• a playground play structure,
• a spray pool or wading pool, and
• a skate park.

Persons in possession of small quantities of controlled substances within those boundaries will be subject to criminal charges under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. The new locations complement those already restricted under the exemption, including school and child care facility premises, as well as motor vehicles and watercraft operated by minors.

Read the News Release.

Read the Statement from the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health.

Read the Exemption in Full.

Nick Falzon & Aidan Andrews

Download pdf: BC Controlled Substances Exemption Restricted at Playgrounds, Water Parks, Skate Parks