Proof of vaccine requirements for City of Richmond


Updated: 17 September 2021

13 September 2021

Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required for participation in a variety of activities and programs in City of Richmond facilities effective Monday, September 13, 2021.

The requirements are in keeping with a provincial Public Health Order mandating use of a BC Vaccine Card. Under that order, proof of vaccination – along with government-issued photo ID – must be presented for access to various recreational activities, programs and classes.

While subject to change based on directions from the Provincial Health Officer, the City of Richmond requires proof of vaccination for the following:

  • Organized indoor events with 50 or more people (i.e. parties, workshops, or meetings)
  • Indoor youth (age 12+) activities in work-out gyms, exercise or dance facilities/studios (i.e. drop-in's for fitness centres, group exercise and sport visits)
  • Indoor adult (age 22 and older) sport and physical activity programs
  • Indoor adult (age 22 and older) group and individual fitness of any type and intensity
  • Spectators at indoor sporting events or competitions

Proof of vaccination is not currently required for the following:

  • Swimming
  • Public skating
  • Organized recreational activities for those under 22 years of age, including those adults required to support the activity (i.e. volunteers, coaches, parents, Attendant Support Persons)
  • Adult (age 22 or older) programs or activities that do not involve physical activity
  • Museum/Heritage sites, libraries and Richmond Art Gallery visits
  • General access to the common areas of facilities (i.e. washrooms, lounge areas, cafeterias)
  • Outdoor programs or activities

Again, these requirements may change based on directions from the Provincial Health Officer that currently requires people age 19 and older to show government-issued photo ID along with their BC Vaccine Card (or COVID-19 Immunization Card until Sept. 26). Visit gov.bc.ca/vaccinecard for details on vaccination status, ID requirements and how to obtain a BC Vaccine Card.

The City of Richmond has been a leader in encouraging safe practices to reduce the impact of COVID-19. It was the first Lower Mainland municipality to mandate the wearing of masks in its facilities. It encourages everyone to get vaccinated and enjoy the benefits of indoor and outdoor activity that it allows under the Public Health Orders.

For updates on programs, services and activities in the City of Richmond, visit richmond.ca/covid19