New Westminster – New Westminster City Council has approved the consumption of alcohol at seven city parks. The new Consumption of Liquor in Public Spaces Bylaw takes effect immediately and permits adults to drink responsibly between 11:00 am until dusk, seven days a week in designated zones at the following parks:

• Grimston Park
• Hume Park
• Moody Park
• Port Royal Park
• Queen’s Park
• Sapperton Park
• Westminster Pier Park

“As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw many of our neighbouring municipalities successfully support alcohol consumption in their local parks,” said Mayor Jonathan Coté. “The adoption of this new bylaw is intended to encourage our residents to enjoy our outdoor spaces and socialize safely. It also creates an opportunity to support our local establishments by ordering both food and beverages.”

Alcohol can only be consumed by adults age 19 or older within the designated areas of each of the approved parks. Signage has been installed at each park indicating the boundaries of each zone and the hours during which alcohol can be consumed. Adults who choose to drink in the permitted areas are expected to manage their consumption, act responsibly, and dispose of their litter. All Public Health Orders related to COVID-19 as well as the provisions of the Provincial Liquor Control and Licensing Act must also be followed.

“The designated zones within each park have been selected to balance the needs of providing safe and open spaces for people to gather while also considering the other uses and activities taking place in these parks,” said Dean Gibson, Director of Parks and Recreation. “Staff will be monitoring and receiving feedback on the program and will make recommendations for any potential adjustments that need to be made.”

In the fall, the City of New Westminster be collecting input from the community on their experience with the pilot program. The engagement results will be used to help inform recommendations to Council on what, if any, aspects need to be improved to continue with consumption of alcohol in designated public spaces.

To learn more, please visit www.newwestcity.ca/alcohol-in-parks

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Media Contact:

Dean Gibson
Director, Parks and Recreation
City of New Westminster
604-527-4628 or