City Hall, 510 Main Street (CITY OF WINNIPEG / X)
Winnipeg city councillors will vote on a proposed by-law that would limit “nuisance” demonstrations near schools, places of worship, childcare centres and other designated facilities.
The Safe Access to Vulnerable Infrastructure By-law is intended to protect access to community spaces while still respecting the public’s right to gather and protest. If approved, the by-law would also allow fines for anyone who intimidates people who are accessing, or trying to access, a protected location.
Councillor Evan Duncan, who brought forward the original motion in early 2025, says the measure is aimed at ensuring residents can safely access essential services without fear or obstruction.
“While we completely respect and value peoples’ right to gather and express themselves, we have a duty to ensure all spaces are safe and accessible to those who want or need to visit them,” said Duncan.
The draft by-law proposes fines of $500 for a first offence, increasing to $5,000 for third and subsequent offences. Enforcement would be carried out by city by-law officers and the Winnipeg Police Service.
The proposal will be considered by the city’s executive policy committee on February 17 before heading to Winnipeg City Council for a final decision on February 26.
