Photo: Google Maps

The City of Vancouver has suspended the business licence of a Tim Hortons in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside due to what is considered to be “gross misconduct.”

According to a release, the Tim Hortons located at 108 W Pender Street has violated the orders of the Provincial Health Officer and the City of Vancouver that limit the number of persons allowed in a restaurant and which restrict restaurants to take out and delivery service. As a result, the restaurant's licence was suspended on March 26.

The suspension is authorized by section 277 of the Vancouver Charter, because the failure to comply is considered to be “gross misconduct.” 

The suspension will be in effect for three days. 

Prior to the suspension, property use inspectors reportedly visited the Tim Hortons on four different occasions and issued several warnings.

Property Use Inspectors have visited over 5,800 restaurants and 1,000 personal care facilities since March 20, and will continue to do so to ensure compliance with the Provincial Health Officer and the City’s orders to help combat the spread of COVID-19.  

The City of Vancouver’s 3-1-1 intake has received 69 complaints about restaurants and 11 about personal service establishments such as salons, which were ordered closed by the Provincial Health Officer. 

Individuals and businesses found to be in violation of a City order issued under the State of Emergency bylaw are liable for fines of up to $50,000. To date, the City of Vancouver has not issued any tickets for such violations. 

The City is pleased to see how responsive restaurant owners have been to date and thanks the vast majority of businesses that are taking the directions from the City and public health officials seriously.

The City of Vancouver continues to work with public health officials and multiple partners on the COVID-19 response.