There is no dedicated snitch line, but residents who notice neighbours or others not complying to the new rules set by Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry can report them to Richmond Bylaws or Richmond RCMP's non-emergency line.
Police and other provincial enforcement officers can issue $2,000 violation tickets for owners or organizers who are not following the provincial health officer’s (PHO) order on gatherings and events.
Richmond residents can report rule-breakers to the Richmond RCMP by phoning the non-emergency line at 604-278-1212 or through the RCMP’s online reporting system. Do not call 9-1-1 or it will tie up emergency services.
Residents can also email city bylaw at [email protected], which is monitored seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Three COVID-related violation tickets have been issued in Richmond under the COVID-Related Measures Act (CRMA) to date.
Recently, a tea lounge on Alexandra Road was issued a fine of $2,300 for serving alcohol after 10 p.m. A second ticket was given to a private sports facility for violations and a third non-compliance ticket was issued to an individual for not quarantining while ordered to do so.
Henry announced new restrictions that all social gatherings – indoors or in restaurants – of any size with anyone other than immediate household are prohibited from Nov. 7 to 23.
The ban also includes indoor competitions and games as well as fitness groups. Travelling to and from communities in the Fraser Health and Vancouver Costal Health regions are “strongly discouraged.”
However, individuals living alone may have their “safe six” over.
-With files from Maria Rantanen and the Canadian Press.
