Photo: Castanet/file

Bylaw officers in the City of Kelowna will be assisting Interior Health to ensure residents and businesses are complying with provincial health orders around the COVID-19 crisis.

The decision comes on the heels of last week's order from the Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General enabling bylaw to support enforcement of orders for business closures and gatherings under the Public Health Act.

“With further clarification from Interior Health this week, Bylaw enforcement will focus first on educating members of the public,” said bylaw services manager David Gazley.

“This is so important to ensure the measures being taken are effective in limiting the spread of the virus and protecting the health of residents.”

Businesses and those members of the public not complying could be issued formal warnings. Interior Health will be contacted in the event of ongoing non-compliance.

Tickets can also be issued to those who refuse to comply with health orders.

Non-compliance of public health orders by a business or members of the public can be reported by calling 250-469-8686 between 6 a.m. and midnight or by emailing [email protected].

Significant and urgent concerns that arise beyond these hours can be directed to the RCMP non-emergency line, 250-762-3300.