Province hikes Covid-19 fines for gatherings

The fines for violating B.C.’s Covid-19 health restrictions around gatherings have more than doubled.

Effective immediately, the fine for promoting and for attending a non-compliant gathering or event goes from $230 to $575. The fine for those who organize or host a prohibited event remains the same at $2,300.

Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, said over the last few months, it’s become clear that for some, the risk of a $230 violation ticket isn’t enough to deter attendance at events that violate the provincial health officer’s order.

“I am disappointed that a small minority of British Columbians continue to put their health and the health of others at risk by attending unsafe gatherings. This selfish behaviour needs to stop, and police and provincial enforcement authorities will be able to issue these new fines immediately,” Farnworth said.