Accessibility

Accessibility is at the forefront of the services that the City of Coquitlam provides. Delivering community facilities, infrastructure, neighbourhood plans and community recreation programs for people of all ages and abilities are just a few examples of our commitment to accessibility.

At the City we:

  • Develop and periodically update our plans and regulations to guide the planning and implementation of our services, neighbourhoods, community facilities, recreation programs, parks and infrastructure.
  • Encourage the cost-effective provision of housing which either meets, or can readily be adapted to meet, the needs of people with disabilities.
  • Design and build a street network that is accessible to individuals of varying ages and abilities.
  • Design and build pedestrian infrastructure with the abilities of all users in mind.
  • Provide access to local transit through sidewalk connections, passenger landing pads, and other bus stop facilities for people of all abilities.
  • Welcome and encourage people of all abilities to participate in our Parks, Recreation, Culture and Facilities programs and services.
  • Commit to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI)– a strategic priority focusing on initiatives break down barriers to ensure everyone is able to live, work, play and thrive in a safe and welcoming environment. 

From planning and regulation to implementation, accessibility is and will continue to be at the heart of the services we provide.

Accessibility and Inclusion Plan

The City has adopted its first-ever Accessibility and Inclusion Plan (PDF) that will advance EDI and accessibility outcomes for both our community and the people that work in our organization. The Plan formalizes the City’s historical prioritization of EDI and accessibility initiatives while finding ways to continue to break down barriers to access and inclusion. 

A plain language version of the Accessibility and Inclusion Plan is available to enhance accessible communication of this important work. You can download the PDF or Word document of the Plain Language Version below.

Virtual Facility Tours

Explore our virtual facility tours before your visit to familiarize yourself with our amenities and accessibility features.

Recreation Accessibility Resource Guide

Coquitlam offers adaptive programs, accessible facilities and equipment to enhance recreation accessibility in the community to provide opportunities for people of all ages, abilities and means to access recreation. View the Recreation Accessibility Resource Guide (PDF).

Website Accessibility

The City of Coquitlam website is built based on accessibility compliance requirements include several voluntary consensus standards, including WCAG 2.0, a globally recognized, technology-neutral standard for web content. The website is built to be accurately interpreted by assistive technology. 

Other Accessibility Resources

The following are some references to City’s regulations and policies on access to City infrastructure for people with disabilities. This list may be updated periodically as more resources are identified.

  • Parking requirements to accommodate persons with disabilities - see the City’s Zoning Bylaw (sections 707 and 708) (PDF).
  • Parking at City facilities for persons with disabilities - opportunities and rules.
  • BC Building Code and Building Accessibility Handbook (2020) (PDF).
  • Coquitlam’s Snow Angels program for those who need assistance clearing their sidewalk of snow.
  • Coquitlam’s HEROS Program - information about Emergency Preparedness for the public, including for people with disabilities.
  • City Park or Trail accessibility information - available on ’QTheMap’.
  • Parks, Recreation and Culture programs - call the Community Services Coordinator at 604-927-6300 for information or the help of a volunteer. Note: Volunteers can assist with crafts, games and sports activities; they cannot provide personal care.
  • Access to Parks, Recreation and Culture programs - list of programs that help address barriers to recreation access.
  • Guidelines for hosting events in Coquitlam.

Accessibility and Inclusion Advisory Committee

The Accessibility and Inclusion Advisory Committee ’s (AIAC) mandate is to provide advice and a local and universal accessibility perspective to Council. This supports the City of Coquitlam’s strategic goals and strategic directions toward universal accessibility. Find out more about the AIAC’s work and mandate.

Accessibility Feedback

Do you have feedback on the development of the City’s Accessibility Plan, and/or on what the City can do to enhance accessibility, and remove and reduce barriers to accessing municipal services? 

Please submit your thoughts and feedback through our Feedback Form.

Related Documents

  1. Event Accessibility Checklist (PDF)