Masks now mandatory in York Region’s indoor public spaces
Posted July 17, 2020 6:06 am.
Last Updated July 17, 2020 12:09 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
It’s now mandatory to wear a mask or face covering in indoor public spaces in York Region.
Markham Mayor Frank Scarpetti said the move was made at the recommendation of the area’s medical officer of health and in the name of public safety.
Business owners in the region must have a policy in place to prohibit people from entering if they’re not wearing a face covering, as it is on them to enforce the bylaw.
Indoor public spaces include shops, places of worship, grocery stores, banks, community centres, libraries, banquet halls, and museums.
The onus will also be on members of the public to comply with the new bylaw.
However, there are some exemptions. Children under five years of age, people who are unable to put on a mask without help, and those with underlying medical conditions do not need to wear a face covering.
The new bylaw is set to expire on November 30, but the region says that may be extended if necessary.
Halton is now the only GTA region currently without a mandatory mask policy. It goes into effect next week.
Correction: An earlier version of this story stated that proof must be shown for someone who has an exemption. Proof is not required and the story has since been updated.
