The regional COVID-19 restrictions for Kelowna and the Central Okanagan—initially implemented in early August and then put in place for the whole Interior Health region a short time later—have now been amended in conjunction with the launch of the proof of vaccination requirement on September 13.

The amended restrictions, as outlined on the Interior Health website, include:

  • Changes to capacity limits for gatherings:
    • Personal gatherings:
      • Up to 50 people outside for events such as backyard BBQs, birthday parties, etc. 
      • Up to 5 people or one other household for indoor gatherings.
    • Organized gatherings:
      • With proof of vaccination (minimum one dose) until October 24:
        • Indoor organized gatherings (i.e. weddings, funerals, seated events, etc.) are limited to 50 people.
        • Outdoor organized gatherings are limited to 100 people. 
      • With proof of vaccination (two doses), effective now:
        • Indoor organized gatherings are limited to 50 people or 50% of a venue's capacity, whichever is greater. 
        • Outdoor organized gatherings are limited to 5,000 people or 50% of a venue's capacity, whichever is greater.
  • Limiting the number of people in vacation accommodations to the occupants plus up to 5 additional people (or one household).
  • Restrictions in sports and fitness centres:
    • High-intensity group fitness classes are once again permitted, as long as the instructors and participants are fully vaccinated (two doses).
    • Low-intensity group fitness classes, gyms, and other fitness/dance studios must adhere to the provincial proof of vaccination requirement (as outlined above). 
    • Masks are required in common areas of sports and fitness centres when not engaged in physical activity.
  • Non-essential travel to or from the region is not recommended until individuals are fully vaccinated.

The orders that were previously issued for restaurants, pubs, bars, nightclubs, and casinos in Kelowna and the Central Okanagan have been removed; province-wide restrictions remain in place:

  • Table limits can be set by each individual establishment; however, patrons must not socialize between tables and no dancing is allowed. 
  • Normal liquor service hours are in place. 
  • Casinos can operate at reduced capacity. 

We are asking residents and visitors to adhere to public health measures in place in our province, in our community, and at individual businesses, to get vaccinated if they are able, and to make safe, smart, and responsible decisions.

We want to again extend our gratitude to everyone working hard to keep us safe, especially health care workers. We also sincerely appreciate all of the tourism and hospitality workers putting in extra hours and effort for the comfort and safety of their customers.

Tourism Kelowna is here to support our industry and to position our region for recovery. To assist you and your staff, we have compiled key messages relating to the amended regional restrictions below. Please be in contact with our team with updates from your business or with any questions you may have.


Key Messages

  • We are asking residents and visitors to adhere to public health measures in place in our province, in our community, and at individual businesses, and if you’re able, please get vaccinated. Please continue to make safe, smart, and responsible decisions. Our community appreciates your help and support and we look forward to welcoming you on your next visit.
     
  • We are doing our part to support the ongoing public health response. Local businesses have health and safety protocols and plans in place—including the proof of vaccination requirement when necessary—and will continue to refine them as needed. Over the course of the pandemic, it has been demonstrated that visits to accommodations, attractions, and businesses with COVID-19 measures in place can be enjoyed safely and responsibly. Local businesses are under increased challenges due to high demand and labour challenges. The stress on businesses, many already operating at decreased capacity during peak season and still recovering from months of restrictions and closures, is significant.
     
  • Currently, there are public health conditions that may impact your travel, and it’s important you know before you go. Call ahead to ask questions and seek information from official sources to make informed travel decisions. We also ask individuals to continue supporting local businesses as much as possible.
  • Anyone who can get vaccinated, should, to protect themselves and each other. Vaccination clinics are ongoing and Interior Health is increasing its efforts to make this possible. The health of our community and residents, and the future of Kelowna and area's $2-billion tourism industry, depends on it.


For more information, contact Chris Shauf, Director of Marketing & Communication, chris.shauf@tourismkelowna.com