BC-GOV13: Bill 13: Safe Access to Places of Public Worship Act

This bill primarily affects religious organizations and places of worship in British Columbia — churches, mosques, synagogues, temples, gurdwaras, and similar facilities that hold property tax exemptions for public worship. Owners and occupiers of these properties must post specific signage to establish access zones (extending 20 metres from their property boundaries) and ensure the signs are clearly visible and legible. Businesses or organizations that share a multi-use building with a place of worship are also affected, as access zones may extend through the building's entrances and passageways. Protest organizers, advocacy groups, or individuals who might demonstrate near religious sites need to be aware that certain conduct within access zones — including attempts to persuade people not to attend worship — could lead to arrest without warrant or court injunctions.