After first experimenting with legalized alcohol in Millennium Park in 2021, West Vancouver council is adding three new parks where residents may uncork a bottle.
Council voted unanimously Monday (March 28) to add portions of Ambleside Landing, John Lawson Park, and Dundarave Park to the list of places where residents and visitors can legally sip suds.
The Millennium Park pilot proved toast worthy for the Ambleside and Dundarave Business Improvement Association, with no major hangover for the municipality or West Vancouver Police Department, according to staff. It was made permanent in October 2021.
Staff suggested adding the three new parks because they have established gathering and picnic areas, they are in close proximity to public transit and local businesses, and because they are in visible, non-remote locations.
Council passed the bylaw without any discussion.
Alcohol will be allowed within the designated areas of the parks (excluding playgrounds) from noon until dusk, seven days a week. Staff estimate it will cost about $7,000 to have signs printed marking specifically where booze may be consumed in each of the parks.
The rule change is tentatively scheduled to come into effect on April 12, pending one more vote by council.
