Halifax is closing five designated tent encampments.

Wednesday morning, the municipality announced that municipal staff began giving out notices and communicating with people living in tents at the Geary Street green space, Saunders Park, Victoria Park, Grand Parade and the Correctional Centre Park in Lower Sackville.

The HRM says better options exist.

People sheltering at those locations have until February 26th to vacate.

According to the municipal release, the province and service providers will be working with encampment residents to move indoors.

The HRM says safety at encampments is a significant concern.

It says in the past year, Halifax Fire & Emergency has responded to more than 110 calls for service related to encampments, including several tent fires.