The B.C. government has been given the green-light to outlaw both possession of illicit drugs around outdoor areas where younger kids gather.

As of Monday, Sept. 18, it’s going to be illegal for people to possess illegal drugs within 15 metres of any playgrounds, spray pools, wading pools, and skate parks.

The BC government has been granted this exemption to decriminalization by Health Canada.

“Our government is committed to breaking down barriers and connecting people to the supports they need,” Jennifer Whiteside, B.C.’s Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, said in a statement.

“We requested this amendment from Health Canada to ensure that families feel safe in their community while continuing to use every tool available to fight the toxic-drug crisis and save lives.”

The ban follows an earlier move by the province that made possession illegal on K to 12 school grounds and licensed day care facilities.

The announcement of the impending ban comes a couple of days after Kamloops council voted to bring in sweeping restrictions on open drug use across the city.

The Kamloops ban – which has yet to be formally approved – restricts the use or display of drugs on all sidewalks and within 100-meters of public parks, playgrounds, beaches, and any municipal building which has public access.

It’s not clear when – or if – the Kamloops ban will be implemented, as the City is anticipating push back as the B.C. government prepares its own legislation for the fall sitting.

In its statement, the Province confirming its plans to introduce more legislation to further regulate public drug use this fall, citing “recently completed consultations on public drug use with key stakeholders.”

It has now been more than six months since B.C.’s exemption to the federal Controlled Drugs and Substances Act took effect.

That exemption – which is set to expire on Jan. 31, 2026 – means adults can possess 2.5 grams of certain drugs – opioids, crack, cocaine, methamphetamine and MDMA – for personal use.