Today Toronto enters the ‘grey area’
[GTranslate]TORONTO – After more than 100 days of lockdown, Toronto has moved into the gray zone of the classification introduced by the Ontario Government Keeping Ontario Safe and Open Framework (rules to keep Ontario safe and open). And with the partial relaxation of the restrictive measures, the order to “stay at home” in both Toronto and the Peel Region has also been lifted. “Toronto Public Health and Peel Public Health are making progress, but as their case rates remain high, they will return to the gray level for at least two weeks when the situation is revalued,” Premier Doug Ford said Friday. “This is not a return to normality – added Health Minister Christine Elliott, extinguishing enthusiasm – while we continue to vaccinate other Ontario residents, it remains essential for everyone to continue to follow public health measures and stay at home as much as possible to protect themselves, loved ones and their communities.”
But exactly, as of today, what can be done and what can’t be done yet?
* Restaurants, bars, cafes
It is forbidden to sit both inside and outside. Existing takeaway, drive-through and delivery services can continue.
* Shopping and retail
You can shop in person, but supermarkets, convenience stores, pharmacies, and other stores that mainly sell groceries need to limit the number of customers to 50% of the approved capacity. For all other retail and big-box stores, there is a 25% capacity limit. Customers will need to maintain a distance of two meters and wear masks in accordance with existing regulations. Roadside pick-up and delivery will continue to be allowed.
* Regulated Health Services
Regulated health professionals (chiropractors, dentists, masseurs, ophthalmologists, physiotherapists and occupational therapists, podiatrists) can operate within the provincial framework.
* Schools and post-secondary institutions
Schools and nurseries are allowed to remain open in accordance with previous reopening plans and adherence to public health guidelines. Post-secondary institutions may remain open for in-person education only for programmes requiring it. Virtual learning will be required for all other situations.
* Social Gatherings, Religious Services, Weddings, Funerals
Indoor public events and social gatherings are prohibited except for people from the same family. Public events organized outdoors and social gatherings with physical removal are limited to 10 people. Weddings, funerals and religious services are limited to 10 people inside and 10 people outdoors. Physical distancing must be respected.
* Sports and Recreational Fitness
All internal facilities and activities are closed. Outdoor recreational activities, including skating rinks, ski slopes, and snow-capped slopes, can be opened with limitations.
* Real Estate Market
Real estate agencies will be able to operate; open houses only by appointment.
* Personal Care Services
Providers of personal care services (e.g. hairdressers, barbers, etc.) must remain closed.
* Domestic Services
Housekeepers, nannies, babysitters and other domestic staff will be able to continue working. Cleaning, maintenance and repair services and activities will also be allowed.
* Attractions and Zoos
Amusement parks must remain closed. Zoos can only operate on a drive-through basis.
* Animal Services
Veterinary services together with companies and organizations that are responsible for animal health and welfare, grooming and pet training are allowed to operate.
* Driving Schools
In-person education is not allowed but virtual lessons can continue.
* Cinema and performing arts facilities
These facilities are closed with the exception of drive-in cinemas.
* Golf Courses
Golf courses can be open, but indoor facilities must remain closed.
* Casinò, bingo rooms, games
Casinos, bingo rooms and gaming facilities remain closed.
* Cannabis Shops
Cannabis stores can be opened for pickup from the sidewalk.