People trying to profit from unauthorized sales of medical and other essential supplies in Coquitlam could find themselves paying a $500 fine instead.
COQUITLAM, B.C., Mar. 25, 2020 – People trying to profit from unauthorized sales of medical and other essential supplies in Coquitlam could find themselves paying a $500 fine instead.
The City is cracking down on those who are cashing in on the COVID-19 pandemic by selling medical, cleaning and other hard-to-find supplies from their home, vehicle or roadside stand without a business licence.
Bylaw Enforcement Officers are investigating complaints received from the public. Residents are encouraged to report unauthorized sales to 604-927-7387 or email Bylaw Enforcement (leave a message if after hours). Bylaw Enforcement operates Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., and on weekends and statutory holidays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The City has the authority to fine non-compliant vendors $500 per day through the Business Licence Bylaw.
Actions to Minimize COVID-19 Impact
Other steps the City has taken to help minimize the impact of COVID-19 on the community have included:
- Cancelling programs and closing public facilities and some outdoor spaces to help slow the spread of the virus;
- Providing full and automatic refunds for cancelled programs or events;
- Deferring penalties for late utility payments to Sept. 30; and
- Deploying on-duty Bylaw Enforcement Officers to assist in enforcing Provincial Health Orders, such as the suspension of dine-in restaurant and personal service businesses.
Most City staff are continuing to work and are accessible by phone or email. Contact information and additional detail is available at www.coquitlam.ca/covid19.
Residents are encouraged to use the City’s online services, available at www.coquitlam.ca/eservices.
Be Informed
For up-to-date information regarding the COVID-19 impacts to City facilities, programs, services and events:
Coquitlam residents are encouraged to follow the City of Coquitlam on social media (Facebook and Twitter) and download the CoquitlamConnect mobile app for up-to-date City information.
For more information on COVID-19, including updates, answers to frequently asked questions, and translated information, please consult the following resources:
- Fraser Health Authority – www.fraserhealth.ca
- BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) – www.bccdc.ca
- Non-medical information – 1-888-COVID19 (1-888-268-4319)
- Medical information – 8-1-1
Public Health Agency of Canada – www.Canada.ca/en/public-health