---
title: "VPD deploying 80 extra officers across Vancouver for Halloween weekend"
description: "Vancouver Police say 80 additional officers will patrol the city from October 31 to November 1, focusing on the Granville Entertainment District and Gastown, and are warning residents not to carry imitation weapons."
canonical_url: "https://voche.me/news/vpd-halloween-weekend-policing-october-30"
last_updated: "2026-10-30T13:57:47.193Z"
---

The Vancouver Police Department said on October 30 it is deploying 80 additional officers across Vancouver for Halloween weekend, with a focus on the Granville Entertainment District, Gastown, and neighbourhoods citywide.

The announcement, published on vpd.ca Friday morning, says officers will conduct foot patrols, traffic enforcement, and youth engagement from October 31 through November 1. The department is also warning residents not to carry imitation firearms or replica weapons as part of their costumes.

**Why the weapons warning**

Imitation firearms and replica weapons look real from a distance and can trigger a police emergency response, the VPD said. Constable Megan Lui stated: "We are asking people to celebrate responsibly, look out for one another, and call 9-1-1 immediately if they witness a crime in progress."

The Granville Entertainment District on Granville Street is one of Vancouver's main nightlife areas and draws large crowds on Halloween night. Gastown, a historic district in the city's east side, is another area where the VPD is concentrating resources.

**What police are asking**

The VPD is asking three things of residents this weekend: celebrate responsibly, look out for one another, and call 911 right away if they see a crime happening. For matters that are not emergencies, the non-emergency number is 604-717-3321.

The Halloween deployment adds to a separate set of safety advice published earlier in the week. Vancouver Fire Rescue Services warned on October 27 that fireworks remain banned in Vancouver, with fines reaching $1,000, and asked drivers to stay off residential streets between 5 pm and 9 pm on October 31, when trick-or-treaters are out.

**What residents can do**

Anyone going out in Vancouver this Halloween weekend should plan to leave imitation weapons at home, save the Granville Entertainment District for later in the evening if possible, and keep 911 and 604-717-3321 saved in their phone. Anyone who sees suspicious activity is encouraged to report it to police rather than wait.

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