West Vancouver plans to ban sale of bear spray to under 19s

The District of West Vancouver has proposed limiting the sale of bear spray to individuals under 19 years old to address a spike in criminal cases.

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According to the West Vancouver Police Department, there was a 50% surge in bear spray-related crimes last year, rising from 20 incidents in 2022 to 45 in 2023. Cases involving bear spray and youth doubled over the same period. The proposed amendment, drafted by Bylaw and Licensing Services Manager Matthew O’Connor, expressed particular concern about pop-up events known as TikTok parties, which have been linked to increased bear spray offences.

In addition to age restrictions, the amendment requires businesses to maintain sales records for 12 months, including the date and time of sale, product details, and purchaser information. The district inspector can access this information upon request. Businesses will also need to store bear spray securely in a locked area or a place inaccessible to the public. Based on the proposal, failure to comply with these regulations could result in a $500 fine.

According to the police department, at least two business establishments in the district currently sell bear spray.
During initial consultations with the police department, these establishments expressed support for the proposed regulations, noting that they already have similar practices and anticipate minimal impact on their operations.

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This proposal follows similar regulations implemented by Chilliwack, Port Coquitlam, and Vancouver in 2021, 2022, and 2023, which banned the sale of bear spray to minors. After implementing regulations on bear spray, Chilliwack RCMP recorded a 49% decrease in the number of case files for incidents involving bear spray in 2021 compared to the previous year.

The proposed bylaws and report will be available for viewing from April 5 to 22, at Municipal Hall, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays; and at westvancouver.ca. Individuals who want to make representations regarding the proposed bylaws will have an opportunity to be heard and to submit written submissions at the Council Meeting on Monday, April 22.