The City of Coquitlam is considering raising the fine for smoking in parks to $500.
The city’s smoking bylaw states that no one is allowed to smoke in any of the city’s parks at any time, with the current fine sitting at $75.
However, with the dry summer months and high fire risk, city officials think a bigger fine might be needed. Despite public awareness on the topic, cigarette butts remain one of the leading causes of fires in parks, forests and dry grass.
If the final reading of the bylaw amendment is approved on July 27, people found violating the Smoking Control Bylaw would be subject to a $500 fine – $400 payment within 14 days.
Residents who see someone smoking in the park can call Bylaws at 604-927-7387 or 604-927-3085, or email them at bylaw_enforcement@coquitlam.ca.
To report a fire, call 9-1-1.
For more on Coquitlam’s Smoking Control Bylaw, visit www.coquitlam.ca/bylaws.
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