Penticton is moving forward with a new parks bylaw to help manage public space while addressing homelessness. The bylaw, now under review by the City Council, replaces an outdated version from 1974 that no longer fits today’s community needs.
The goal is to make sure public parks stay safe and open for everyone. At the same time, the city wants to follow legal rules that protect the rights of people who have no home. Courts in Canada have ruled that cities must allow temporary sheltering in public spaces when enough shelter beds are not available. The new bylaw will bring local laws in line with these court decisions.
The updated bylaw sets clear rules for when and where people can sleep in parks overnight. It allows temporary structures such as tents to be used in specific areas during nighttime hours. In the morning, the structures must be removed. This keeps parks clean and safe while respecting the rights of unhoused residents.
City officials say this bylaw is not about removing people from public spaces. It is about offering a clear and fair plan for how these spaces are used. The bylaw helps reduce confusion and makes sure everyone is treated with respect. It also supports better cooperation between city staff, police, and people experiencing homelessness.
The city has seen a rise in the number of people sleeping in parks due to a lack of housing. The new bylaw is part of a larger plan to respond with care and legal fairness. Penticton leaders say they want to protect green spaces while showing compassion for those in need.
The rules in the new bylaw are designed to reduce long-term camps and improve safety for all park users. They also allow city staff to act quickly when issues arise. The aim is to prevent damage to public land and help people find support.
Community members have shared different opinions. Some want stronger rules to protect families using parks. Others say more services and housing are needed instead of new rules. City Council members say they will listen to all views before making a final decision.
Penticton’s move to change its parks bylaw is an effort to balance many needs. It respects public use of parks while following legal standards. The city promises to review the bylaw over time and adjust it when needed.
Officials say this is just one part of their work to deal with homelessness. They are also working with local groups to provide support, outreach, and shelter. The city is clear that laws alone will not solve the problem, but they can help manage it better.
The proposed bylaw gives everyone in Penticton a better understanding of what is allowed in public parks. It is a step toward shared responsibility and clear expectations. The city hopes this change will lower conflict and make public areas more welcoming for all.
A final vote on the bylaw is expected soon. If approved, the city will begin sharing the new rules with the public. Staff and outreach teams will help guide the rollout and answer questions. The goal is to make the process smooth and fair for everyone.
By updating the parks bylaw, Penticton is trying to find a balanced solution. The plan is simple: protect public land, follow the law, and treat all people with dignity. With this update, the city moves closer to a more thoughtful and inclusive way of managing public spaces.
