City of Kamloops Launches Responsible Liquor Consumption Pilot Program at Riverside Park

Release Date

The City of Kamloops is launching a pilot program to allow responsible liquor consumption in a designated area of Riverside Park. On June 24, 2025, Council adopted the amendment to Parks and Public Lands Bylaw No. 35-66.

This initiative, modelled after successful programs in other Canadian municipalities, promotes responsible liquor consumption in public spaces. The pilot runs daily from 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm until October 1, 2025. Individuals aged 19 and older are permitted to bring and consume their own liquor within a clearly marked area around the Rotary Bandshell in Riverside Park. This location was selected due to its accessibility, visibility, and alignment with existing park activities, such as picnicking and the seasonal Music in the Park concert series.

While moderate consumption is allowed, public intoxication is prohibited. Under Parks and Public Lands Bylaw No. 35-66, the RCMP and Community Service Officers are authorized to direct individuals to dispose of liquor if they are not complying with the rules. Any person found violating the bylaw is subject to a penalty of $100 for a first offence and $200 for each subsequent offence.

The Responsible Liquor Consumption Pilot Program will not be in effect during community events or private bookings of the Riverside Park Rotary Bandshell area. Major events require a special event permit and enhanced security measures to ensure the safety of large crowds. In these cases, the permit takes precedence over the bylaw. Notable 2025 community events where the bylaw is not in effect include:

  • Canada Day - July 1 
  • Kamloops International Buskers Festival - July 24–27
  • Kamloops Daybreak Rotary Ribfest - August 8–10

“This pilot program reflects a thoughtful approach to modern urban park use,” says Andrew Smeaton, the City’s Business Operations and Special Event Supervisor. “By allowing responsible liquor consumption in a controlled setting, we are committed to educating the public on safe consumption practices while fostering a sense of shared community space.”

The City will monitor the pilot program and gather feedback from enforcement personnel, community partners, event organizers, and the public. Residents and visitors will have the opportunity to provide feedback on the pilot program over the summer. The feedback will be taken into consideration when the pilot program summary is presented to Council in fall 2025.

For more information, including a map of the designated area, visit Kamloops.ca/ResponsibleLiquor.