City updates mandatory mask bylaw to exempt children under five, remove face shields as substitute masks and other changes

COVID-19
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At a special meeting July 28, Burlington City Council approved amendments to our temporary Mask By-law which regulates the use of face masks and coverings within enclosed spaces open to the public. The amendments were made for consistency with Halton Region’s Mask Bylaw and on advice received from Halton Region’s Medical Officer of Health.The By-law was implemented in an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and protect the health and safety of the community. The changes are now in effect and include:

  • Exempting children under the age of five from wearing a mask (previously children under three).
  • Requiring parents/guardians of children over five years of age to make a “best effort” to ensure the children wear a mask
  • Removing face shields as an acceptable face covering. Public Health information indicates that face coverings need to cover the nose and mouth without gapping
  • Updating wording related to “employee-only areas” which are not regulated under the by-law
  • Applying the Mask By-law to City recreation facilities.

For more information about the Mask By-law, visit burlington.ca/masks.Burlington is ranked as Canada’s best community and best place to raise a family. It is a City where people, nature and businesses thrive. As residents continue to rediscover many of their favourite spaces and activities in the city, City services may look different as we work to stop the spread of COVID-19. The City’s commitment to providing the community with essential services remains a priority. Sign up to learn more about Burlington at Burlington.ca/Enews and download the free City of Burlington app.My Take: Mayor Marianne Meed Ward”The updates to our temporary mask by-law will help ensure residents have consistency in the Burlington and Halton Region bylaws. Masks are an essential way to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 so we can continue to move forward in reopening businesses and schools and getting back to more of the activities we all enjoy. I encourage all our residents to wear a mask in public indoor spaces to help protect our families, friends, and community.The removal of face shields as an alternative to face masks was based on advice from Halton Region’s Medical Officer of Health during discussion at Halton Regional Council of the Region’s mask bylaw. Face shields can be an added layer of protection when worn with a face masks, but based on medical advice are not considered a substitute for a face mask.Links

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