Combat Sports Law

Covid-19 has wreaked havoc on the Canadian combat sports scene with events sidelined due to the pandemic and even training across much of the Country being ground to a halt.

Today the BC Athletic Commission has announced, with “an abundance of caution” the expectation that professional events may start resuming in the New Year in the Province. If events resume they will be without an audience and initially be limited to professional cards. Nothing is guaranteed but the Commission is giving the green light to promoters to start applying for permits as of January 1, 2021. The full letter reads as follows:

December 16, 2020

Dear Combat Sports Stakeholders: It is with an abundance of caution that the BC Athletic Commissioner will start the process to initiate the resumption of Professional Combat Sports in 2021.

As of January 01, 2021, promoters may apply for permits to hold Non-Audience Professional Combat Sports events.

Events must have a Covid-19 Safety Plan in place that meets the requirements of the current PHO orders along with WorksafeBC regulations. Industry Guidelines have been created and are available to assist with the event planning process.

The promoter of an event must apply to the commissioner for an event permit at least 60 days before the proposed date of the event.

All event permits are subject to cancellation by the PHO should conditions change in the province and the promoter should ensure they stay current and work with the regional health officer during their planning process.

Regards,
Kelly Gilday

Kelly Gilday BC Athletic Commissioner