More GTA regions are mandating face masks in indoor settings
Face masks and coverings are now mandatory in more GTA regions after new bylaws went into effect in Peel and Durham on Friday.
Since Tuesday, masks have been mandatory for indoor settings in Toronto with more communities quickly following suit.
On Friday, bylaws requiring non-medical masks to be worn in indoor settings went into effect for Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon.
Masks will be required in all indoor public spaces in Brampton until October 1. The city will also be distributing one million non-medical masks to its residents.
“As we’ve heard from our public health officials, mandatory masks are an integral part of stopping the spread of COVID-19,” said Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown.
“To continue to move beyond this virus, we are ready to take all necessary precautions and it is why the city will be distributing one million non-medical masks to Brampton residents.”
In Durham Region, residents will also be required to wear masks as of today, based on recommendations from Medical Officer of Health Dr. Robert Kyle.
Meanwhile, York Region Council has voted in favour of its own mandatory mask bylaw that will go into effect on July 17.
Starting Friday, July 17, face masks and coverings will be mandatory in all indoor public space in #YorkRegion, including shopping malls, community centres and places of worship. For information on what this means for you, visit https://t.co/vXeGiLdrId #covid19 pic.twitter.com/ujsv1RffXl
— York Region (@YorkRegionGovt) July 10, 2020
“Business owners and operators in York Region must have a policy in place to prohibit people from entering if they are not wearing a face mask or covering. Customers, employees and visitors who enter enclosed public spaces must wear a face mask or covering,” York Region said in a statement.
In Toronto, the bylaw is not in effect for apartment buildings and condominiums, child care facilities, and areas that are not enclosed, like a restaurant patio.
There will be exemptions made for those who cannot wear a mask for medical reasons, children under the age of two years old, and other reasonable accommodations.
The temporary removal of masks when receiving services, having a meal, or engaging in athletic or fitness activity will also be permitted.
The bylaw is set to expire on the first day after the first city council meeting following summer recess, unless extended by council.
This meeting is currently scheduled for September 30 and October 1.