Burnaby Responsible Consumption of Alcohol in Parks Bylaw 2024

The City of Burnaby conducted a pilot program in 2023 to allow for the responsible consumption of alcohol in select parks. The program was deemed a success, with limited feedback and no increase in enforcement or complaints. The city now seeks to make the program permanent and expand it to all city parks, with a new bylaw set to take effect in June 2024.

• The pilot program ran from June 23 to October 30, 2023, in four parks across the city: Confederation Park, Keswick Park, Central Park, and Edmonds Park.
• The program allowed alcohol consumption throughout the parks, with restrictions within a 10-meter radius of programmed amenities like playgrounds and sports courts.
• A public survey received 45 responses, with the majority of feedback focused on confusion around the 10-meter restriction.
• There was no notable increase in calls, complaints, or garbage/waste issues during the pilot program.

• Recommendation: Expand the program to all city parks as a year-round and permanent initiative.
• The new Burnaby Responsible Consumption of Alcohol in Parks Bylaw 2024 is set to take effect on June 24, 2024.
• The bylaw will include amendments to the Burnaby Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2009 to impose penalties for violations.