
The Ontario government announced today (July 15) that nearly all businesses and public spaces will reopen in Stage 3 of the province’s reopening framework.
As part of the Stage 3 reopening, gathering limits will be increased as follows:
- Indoor gathering limits will increase to a maximum of 50 people;
- Outdoor gathering limits will increase to a maximum of 100 people;
- Gathering limits are subject to physical distancing requirements.
Public gathering limits apply to indoor and outdoor events, such as community events or gatherings, concerts, live shows, festivals, conferences, sports and recreational fitness activities, fundraisers, fairs, festivals or open houses. A two metre distance must still be maintained at such events.
The Chief Medical Officer of Health, public health experts and other officials have advised the following high-risk places and activities are not yet safe to open due to the likelihood of large crowds congregating, difficulties with physical distancing, or challenges maintaining the proper cleaning and sanitation required:
- Amusement parks and water parks
- Buffet-style food services
- Dancing at restaurants and bars, other than by performers following specific requirements
- Overnight stays at camps for children
- Private karaoke rooms
- Prolonged or deliberate contact while playing sports
- Saunas, steam rooms, bath houses and oxygen bars
- Table games at casinos and gaming establishments
For more information on the restrictions that will remain in place during Stage 3, as well as the public health guidance necessary to keep the people of Ontario safe, visit Ontario.ca/reopen.
The province is committed to working closely and collaboratively with businesses and sectors who are experiencing significant challenges for reopening due to Stage 3 restrictions. These businesses can visit Ontario.ca/reopen to submit a reopening proposal.
Beginning July 27th, child care centres will be permitted to operate with cohorts of 15 children, which is an increase from the current cohort cap of 10. This change will allow parents to return to work, and bring the child care sector to approximately 90 per cent of its operating capacity before the outbreak.
Based on community needs, some municipalities and local medical officers of health have implemented more restrictions or requirements. Check your local public health unit’s or local municipality’s website.
For questions on restrictions that will remain in place, review the Stage 3 Emergency Order on the emergency information portal or call the Stop the Spread Business Information Line at 1-888-444-3659.