B.C. reduces COVID-19 restrictions

British Columbia Minister of Health Adrian Dix and Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry announced that many restrictions will expire at 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, February 16, 2022.

The proof of vaccination (restaurants, events, theatre), indoor mask, and, COVID-19 Workplace Safety Plan requirements will all REMAIN IN FORCE. These will be reviewed in mid-March and mid-April.

Among the restrictions being removed:

• Indoor personal gatherings;
• Indoor and outdoor organized gatherings, including wedding receptions;
• Bars and nightclubs can re-open and dancing will be allowed;
• Capacity restrictions on films, theatres, casinos and sporting events; and,
• Restaurant restrictions:
  • Barriers between tables,
  • Remaining seated (patrons not moving between tables),
  • Table seating limits,
  • Overall capacity.

In addition, guidance to work from home is no longer in effect. Dr. Henry said that now is the time to begin transitioning back to workplaces. With the changes to Federal travel guidance and restrictions today, tourism is expected to increase this summer. Dr. Henry announced that cruise ships will be returning to B.C. ports this spring, summer and fall.