On July 1, 2021, changes to the regulation surrounding the employment of children in the live entertainment industry came into effect. The legislation covers performance and rehearsal in theatre, dance, music, opera and circus in British Columbia.

This legislation, Division 3, Employment Standards Regulation, B.C. Reg. 396/95, applies to performing arts organizations that employ non-union children from age 4-14 as performers.

The Employment Standards Act sets out the minimum standards that apply in most workplaces in British Columbia. The Employment Standards Branch of the Ministry of Labour, Citizens’ Services and Open Government administers the Act.