Understand the plan
BC’s Restart is a careful, four-step plan to bring B.C. back together. Getting vaccinated is the most important tool supporting our restart.
How we move through the steps
To move through the steps, we’re looking for:
- Declining COVID-19 case counts
- Increasing vaccination rate in people 18+
- Declining COVID-19 hospitalizations, including critical care
- Declining COVID-19 mortality rate
Share the message about staying safe
Download and print these posters to help share the message about staying safe and moving forward at a pace that feels comfortable. Translated versions will be available soon.
Steps 1 and 2: Complete
On May 25, we gradually began to restart our important social connections, businesses and activities.
The criteria for Step 1 was at least 60% of the 18+ population vaccinated with dose 1, along with stable case counts and COVID-19 hospitalizations. Step 1 went from May 25 to June 14.
The criteria for Step 2 was at least 65% of the 18+ population vaccinated with dose 1, along with declining case counts and COVID-19 hospitalizations. Step 2 went from June 15 to June 30.
We are in Step 3
The criteria for Step 3 is at least 70% of the 18+ population vaccinated with dose 1, along with low case counts and declining COVID-19 hospitalizations. In Step 3, all sectors will transition to using communicable disease prevention guidance from WorkSafeBC.
Mask guidance
Masks are recommended in indoor public places for all people 12 and older who are not yet fully vaccinated. The mask mandate order under the Emergency Program Act was lifted July 1.
- You’re fully vaccinated 14 days after dose 2
- Masks are optional for children aged 2 to 12
- Children under 2 should not wear masks
- Proof of vaccination does not need to be requested by service providers
- Some people may choose to continue to wear a mask after they’re fully vaccinated and that’s okay
PHO guidance
- Increased social contact
- If you or anyone in your family feels sick stay home and get tested immediately
Activities |
New things you can do |
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Personal gatherings |
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Organized gatherings |
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Travel |
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Businesses |
Restaurants, bars, pubs and nightclubs
Casinos Businesses will transition from a COVID-19 Safety Plan to a communicable disease plan. Some safety measures will remain, like physical barriers. |
Offices and workplaces |
Workplaces will transition from a COVID-19 Safety Plan to a communicable disease plan. Additional safety precautions required in higher risk workplaces. |
Sports and exercise |
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Step 4: Earliest start date September 7
The criteria for moving to Step 4 is more than 70% of the 18+ population vaccinated with dose 1, along with low case counts and low COVID-19 hospitalizations.
The earliest date we move to Step 4 is September 7.
PHO guidance
- Masks in public indoor settings a personal choice
- Normal social contact
- If you or anyone in your family feels sick stay home and get tested immediately
Activities |
New things you can do |
---|---|
Personal gatherings |
|
Organized gatherings |
|
Travel |
|
Businesses |
|
Offices and workplaces |
|
Sports and exercise |
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