The ordinance also bans outside habitation and camping in certain sections of the Burnt Bridge Creek drainage area

VANCOUVER – On Monday (July 18), members of the Vancouver City Council unanimously approved an ordinance amending Vancouver’s Municipal Code pertaining to camping (VMC 8.22) to reduce the danger of wildland fire in Vancouver. 

“One issue of great concern to both individuals experiencing homelessness and the greater Vancouver community is the danger posed by fire,” said City Manager Eric Holmes. “I have walked this area; I have seen first-hand how particularly vulnerable this area is to a dangerous wildfire event.”

The approved ordinance changes the chapter name of VMC 8.22 from “Camping” to “Outside Habitation and Camping” to better reflect the behaviors primarily associated with community members experiencing homelessness and their attempts to shelter themselves from the elements.

The ordinance also bans outside habitation and camping in certain sections of the Burnt Bridge Creek drainage area where fuel load, topography, or limited access make the danger to both the housed and unhoused residents of Vancouver particularly acute. This will allow the City wider scope for removing additional encampments with the purpose of protecting all Vancouver residents from the danger posed by wildland fire.

To help reduce fire risk, Vancouver’s Homeless Assistance Resources Team will begin outreach to campers in the areas impacted by the amendments, informing them of the updates to City Code. The team will also be removing encampments within the designated fire impact areas outlined in the ordinance.

Information provided by city of Vancouver.