Vancouver suspends downtown Tim Hortons licence for violating B.C.'s COVID-19 order

The City of Vancouver has suspended the business licence of a Tim Hortons location for failing toenforcephysical distancing between its customers.

A notice posted on the Pender and Abbott streets locationsays an inspector observed more than 10patrons "who were lined up approximately onefoot apart."

The inspector, the notice says, then warned staff they were not following proper procedures.

Five days after the first visit, an inspector again observed the same thing.

"I have concluded that your business ... is harmful to the health and safety of the community and guilty of gross misconduct," the notice reads.

The location has been forced to shut downfor three days. It can reopen on March 30.

Tim Hortons said in a statement that the restaurant exceeded local guidelines because it had 11 people inside instead of 10.

"This is an unfortunate isolated incident in a very challenging neighbourhood," it said. "The restaurant owner works diligently to serve the guests who frequent her store who often have challenging social needs."

The company says management has worked with the bylaw officer to meet local standards and will ensure the ten person limit is followed in the future, adding that they will request the assistance of police if needed to enforce the rule.

Property-use inspectors have visited almost 7,000 restaurants and personal care facilities to ensure compliance with the public health orders, according to the city. As well, staff have visited more than 1,000 personal care facilities like spas and salons.

To curb the spread of COVID-19, provincial health officerDr. Bonnie Henry recentlybanned all dine-in services at restaurants, allowing only takeout or delivery. As well, staff and customers must practise physical distancing.

Henry also ordered the closure of personal care facilities.