Vancouver council backs proposal for free, year-round veterans’ parking

The City of Vancouver is investigating a plan to allow Canadian Forces veterans and serving personnel to park for free on city property.

Council voted Tuesday to have staff develop a plan for the initiative, which would apply to serving military members and holders of B.C. veteran licence plates.

The free parking would apply to metered spaces, Easy Park lots, Park Board facilities and community centres, subject to existing time restrictions, such as rush hour.

City staff have been directed to develop a plan by October 2020 for potential roll-out by Remembrance Day.

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Vancouver already offers free parking to veterans and serving forces members in the week leading up to Remembrance Day.

The City of Surrey has offered year-round free parking at metered spaces to B.C. veteran licence plate holders since 2008.