Parks Regulation Bylaw
Under the Parks Regulation Bylaw, sheltering is not allowed in any City of Victoria park.
People experiencing homelessness can put up temporary overnight shelter in select City parks only when there is no other safe alternative available.
People using temporary overnight shelter must follow regulations including:
- No sheltering in or on: environmentally sensitive areas, footpaths, cemeteries, sidewalks, sports fields, gardens or playgrounds
- Shelter size, including all associated objects and possessions, is maximum nine square metres
- Shelters must be temporary, removed by 7 a.m. daily, and placed at least four metres from prohibited shelter areas, private property and other shelters
- Shelters must be 15 metres from playgrounds and 50 metres from schools
- Shelters cannot be attached to trees, plants, benches, lamp posts or any structures
- Fire, open-flame appliances and combustibles are prohibited
Concerns related to bylaws, including overnight sheltering in parks, can be reported to Bylaw Services online or by calling 250.361.0215.
Tree Protection Bylaw
The Tree Protection Bylaw helps to protect and preserve trees on private property.
If you would like to prune, remove or work in the protected root zone of a bylaw-protected tree, a permit may be required. Please contact treepermits@victoria.ca.
Animal Responsibility Bylaw
The Animal Responsibility Bylaw regulates the care, control and licensing of animals in the City.
The bylaw designates leash-optional areas and dog-free zones to protect public safety and the environment. See a full list of of leash-optional areas here.