British Columbians can still go camping in their own region, says Dr. Bonnie Henry regarding non-essential travel restrictions that took effect Friday.
On Thursday (April 22), the provincial health officer said people looking to enjoy the outdoors this spring can still go camping – just closer to home.
“If you do need a break, then go to a place that’s close by,” Henry said. “Go for a hike within your local area. If you’re going camping, go camping within your local health area.”
B.C. residents will not be able to book accommodations or a camping site outside of their local health authority, which is being enforced at the discretion of the campsite operator.
READ ALSO: ‘Stay local’: B.C. tourism groups back COVID-19 travel ban
For the purposes of the new travel restrictions, Vancouver Coastal Health and Fraser Health regions are being treated as a single zone, said Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth.
Remaining zones consist of Vancouver Island as well as Northern and Interior regions.
Operators are also being asked to cancel any already-made bookings. BC Parks is said it is ensuring those who booked a provincial camping site outside of their health authority are refunded.
RELATED: B.C.’s COVID-19 non-essential travel ban takes effect, $575 fines approved
A checkpoint system will now see police at major highway and ferry crossings, able to slap $575 fines upon non-essential travellers.
The Emergency Program Act measures are aimed at preventing COVID-19 spread between parts of the province, Farnworth said.
“If we act now and do the right thing, we can still have a summer like those we are all used to.”
The travel ban will remain in effect until May 25.
READ MORE: Canada buys 65M Pfizer booster shots for protection against COVID-19 variants
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