Problem gambling in Vancouver

Vancouver is home to one casino, one commercial bingo hall, and one horse racing track with 600 slot machines.

City Council approaches the social and health costs of gambling very seriously. To ensure a healthy balance within our communities, Council takes an active role in:

• Developing policy
• Defining land use
• Overseeing other regulatory matters related to the gambling industry

Help for problem gamblers

Problem gambling is gambling behaviour that creates negative consequences for the gambler, for others in his or her social network, or for the community.

Recent studies suggest that about 4.6% of adult residents of British Columbia are problem gamblers.

If you believe you have a gambling problem, there are local and provincial resources available to help you.

BC Government responsible gambling website  

Community benefit agreements for PARQ (39 Smithe Street)

The City of Vancouver requires PARQ, the applicant for a rezoning at 39 Smithe Street, to ensure ongoing commitments of social responsibility within community benefit agreements.

In 2015 the City and PARQ entered into two legal agreements with clear, innovative, and accountable steps that set a local and international precedent in our commitment to healthy cities.

• Responsible Gaming Agreement  (507 KB)
• Inner-City Local Procurement and Employment Agreement  (1.9 MB)