As of March 21, 2022, the City's COVID-19 Mandatory Masks By-law is no longer in effect.
The City of St. Catharines' COVID-19 Mandatory Masks By-law requires all visitors and staff in enclosed public spaces to wear a face mask or covering at all times, with some exemptions included. We have developed a Mandatory Masks By-law FAQs to help answer some common questions you might have.
COVID-19 spreads readily in indoor spaces, especially where physical separation of two metres between each person is difficult. With scientific evidence showing that masks operate as an effective barrier against COVID-19 airborne spread from those who are both symptomatic and asymptomatic, the adoption of widespread mask usage helps slow the spread of the virus and enables re-opening efforts to continue.
When you wear a mask, you're protecting yourself and others from COVID-19 and easing pressures on the public health system. Help show you care by wearing a mask.
Niagara Region has also passed a mandatory Face Covering By-law that applies to all municipalities within the Region, including St. Catharines. Niagara Region's by-law works in coordination with the City's.
Review Niagara Region's Face Covering By-law for further information and details on when a face covering is required in the Region, enforcement and proper mask usage.
Definition of a mask and proper use |
As per the COVID-19 Mandatory Masks By-law, you can cover your face with any cloth (non-medical) mask, medical mask, or other face covering, such as a bandana or scarf. Your mask must securely cover your nose, mouth and chin with no gaps. Face and mouth shieldsFace and mouth shields do not meet the requirements of the City's and Region's by-laws and are not a substitute for a face covering as described above, as they do not filter respiratory droplets. A proper face covering creates a complete barrier on the sides of the wearer's face. A face shield is open on both sides and a plastic mouth shield is open at the top, which allows respiratory droplets and particles to enter and exit. Face shields are intended to be used by healthcare and other workers and are worn in addition to other personal protective equipment (PPE). You may wear a face shield in addition to a proper face covering in enclosed public spaces if you would like. Proper mask useView Niagara Region's guidance and instructions on how to safely wear a face mask. |
Areas and spaces where you must wear a mask |
The City's by-law applies to all enclosed, indoor public spaces open to the public. This includes establishments where a fee or membership is required for admission. Staff in employee-only spaces, or those behind barriers, such as plexiglass, do not need to wear a mask. Enclosed public spaces include, but aren't limited to:
St. Catharines TransitDespite being listed as an exemption, the St. Catharines Transit Commission is voluntarily complying with the by-law. Transit is asking its riders and those visiting its facilities to wear a mask. |
Exemptions |
Some exemptions to the by-law apply. Please show respect to fellow residents who are not wearing a mask. They may be exempt for valid medical reasons. Individual exemptions
Service-based exemptionsMasks can be temporarily removed if the service you are receiving, delivering or engaged in requires it. These exemptions include:
Enclosed public space exemptions
|
Requirements and resources for businesses and public space operators |
Business owners and public space operators are required to develop a written policy prohibiting anyone from entering the enclosed space, or remaining within it, unless they are wearing a mask.
You can download printable resources for your business and public space, including: You can also download our Mandatory Mask By-law Operator Implementation Guide, which outlines requirements, definitions, personal and service exemptions, how to develop a mask policy and more. |