Earlier this month, the BC Government announced that the illicit substances decriminalization pilot will end on Jan. 31, 2026. We know that some UVic community members may have questions about how these changes might affect substance use health and harm reduction measures on our campus.
The university remains committed to the goals outlined in our Substance Use Health Strategy. We take our role in supporting the well-being and safety of our community seriously.
As of Feb. 1, 2026, possession of any amount of illicit substances will be illegal in British Columbia. There are exemptions at drug checking and supervised consumption sites. You can learn more about the end of the decriminalization pilot here.
Despite the end of the pilot, UVic’s policies are not changing. Students will not face consequences or get into trouble with UVic if they call for help – even if they’ve used substances and/or are in possession of substances. The use and possession of substances for personal use are not listed as examples of non-academic misconduct under UVic’s Non-Academic Misconduct Policy, and for students living in residence, are not breaches of policies in the Residence Contract.
In addition, under the federal Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act, when a call is made for emergency health services during an overdose or drug poisoning, anybody at the scene will be legally protected from arrests and charges for possession of controlled substances for personal use.
If you use drugs, please take steps to be as safe as possible. There are many harm reduction resources and supports at UVic and in the community.
