COVID-19 Update

With COVID-19 cases on the rise in Toronto, both the Province and City have announced additional restrictions to slow the local rate of transmission.

Beginning October 10 at 12:01am, Toronto will re-enter a modified version of Stage 2 for a minimum of 28 days. All indoor food and drink services in restaurants, bars, food courts, and night clubs will be prohibited. It is important to note that outdoor patio services will remain open.
 
The following workplaces and services will also be closed:

• indoor cinemas, along with other performing arts centres and venues;

• spectator areas in racing venues;

• interactive exhibits or exhibits with high risk of personal contact in museums, galleries, zoos, science centres, and landmarks;

• indoor gyms and fitness facilities, including exercise classes;

• personal care services where face coverings must be removed; and

• casinos, bingo halls, and other gaming establishments.

Additionally, team sports will be limited to training sessions only, with games and scrimmages prohibited. The full list of restrictions is available on the Province's website. 

To help offset the impact these new measures will have on small businesses, the Province has committed to making $300 million available to assist with fixed costs, including property taxes, hydro and natural gas bills. More details will be announced by the Government of Ontario in the coming days.
 
The limits for all social gatherings and organized public events will be capped at 10 people indoors or 25 people outdoors. However, the Province has granted an exemption for wedding receptions already scheduled this weekend, which will be permitted to proceed under the existing public health rules. New public health restrictions will apply to wedding receptions starting Tuesday, October 13 at 12:01am.
 
Also effective Tuesday, October 13, the following permits and programs have been suspended at City-run facilities:

• registered and instructional programs such as learn to skate and swim programs, dance, group fitness and wellness programs;

• hockey games and scrimmages;

• drop-in sports programs other than leisure and lane swim and leisure skate;

• table tennis, billiards, foosball;

• access to the City’s two conservatories; and

• indoor permits for social gatherings and sport games/group fitness.

Anyone who is registered for a City-run program that has been cancelled will be issued an automatic refund. If you have any questions regarding these cancellations, you can contact Parks, Forestry, and Recreation at pfrcustomerservice@toronto.ca or 416-396-7378.
 
Earlier this week, the City's Medical Officer of Health urged Torontonians to limit this year's Thanksgiving celebrations to members of their immediate households. Residents are also reminded to continue watching their distance, wearing a mask, and washing their hands frequently. 
 
As we continue to navigate this rapidly evolving situation, I hope that you enjoy a safe and relaxing Thanksgiving weekend at home.