New proof of vaccination requirements for recreation activities

November 19, 2021

Nelson, BC:  The British Columbia Provincial Health Officer has issued an updated Gatherings and Events Order with new proof of vaccination rules that will affect some users of recreation programs and services at the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK). One of the changes in the Order includes the requirement for a parent participating in their child’s program, such as in a “parent and tot” program, to show proof of full vaccination, except for aquatics activities. For people of all ages participating in aquatics programs (swimming and activities in swimming pools) proof of vaccination is not required.

Proof of vaccination is REQUIRED for people 12 and older participating in:

  • Fitness activities: gym/fitness centres, weight rooms, high- and low-intensity group programs
  • RDCK arena public skate programs
  • Adult team sports
  • Youth participants in adult team sports
  • Volunteers, including coaches and officials, for youth and adult sport *
  • Parents participating in their children’s programs and activities (except for aquatics)
  • Indoor flow-through events

Proof of vaccination is REQUIRED for spectators 12 and older for:

  • Fitness activities: gym/fitness centres, weight rooms, high- and low-intensity group programs
  • All aquatic and youth recreation programs
  • Youth and adult team sport
  • Ticketed events
  • All indoor youth team sports require all spectators 12 and older to show proof of full vaccination.

Proof of vaccination is NOT REQUIRED for people 21 and younger participating in:

  • Aquatics activities (swimming and activities in swimming pools)
  • Programs specifically for children and youth
  • Youth team sport
  • Parents participating in their children’s aquatic activities
  • Outdoor flow-through events

Proof of vaccination is NOT REQUIRED for people 22 and older participating in:

  • Aquatics activities (swimming and activities in swimming pools)
  • Outdoor flow-through events

The requirement for everyone 12 and older to present proof of full vaccination for many recreation activities has been in place since October 24, 2021. People who are 19 and older must also present proof of identity.

RDCK staff or event organizers will scan users’ proof of vaccination using authorized means prior to entry, and will also confirm proof of identity by checking government issued ID. Users of recreation facilities should follow signage and direction from staff to allow for safe participation in programs and classes.

“On behalf of the recreation staff at the RDCK, I’d like to thank our guests for following all current public health orders and getting vaccinated to keep themselves and everyone else safe,” said Joe Chirico, RDCK General Manager of Community Services. “Guests are reminded that wearing a mask is mandatory for everyone 5 and older in all indoor public spaces, including recreation facilities. Masks must be worn at all times except when engaged in exercise, and this applies in places like change rooms where the risk of transmission is greater.”

For more information about proof of vaccination, including acceptable forms of proof and identity requirements, visit www.gov.bc.ca/vaccinecard.

For current public health orders:

To view recreation and leisure programs being offered by the RDCK, and to find out about availability and fees, visit www.rdck.ca/recreation.

* Corrected November 24, 2021

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

The content on this page was last updated November 24 2021 at 2:13 AM

Back to top