Council Resolution – Supervised Consumption Spaces

Motion 11 · Standing Committee of Council on Policy and Strategic Priorities, May 31, 2023

Carried Moved by Adriane Carr

Summary

Directed the City not to enforce the Health By-law's ban on indoor smoking for two years at supervised consumption sites that hold Health Canada approval for indoor inhalation services, meet WorkSafe BC requirements, and have received the advice of the Medical Health Officer.
Responds to a shift in overdose patterns: smoking has become the most common mode of consumption among overdose deaths between 2017 and 2021, while injection has decreased.
Four federally approved supervised consumption sites operate in Vancouver; one has applied for a permit to build six indoor inhalation booths.
Outdoor inhalation spaces are limited; indoor spaces would enable a fuller range of harm reduction services.
Staff to report back with findings and recommendations for permanent regulation by June 30, 2025.
Three speakers appeared in support; no speakers in opposition at committee.