Mandatory face mask requirements lifted as of March 21

March 18, 2022

Following provincial guidance, face masks or coverings will no longer be required in most indoor places in York Region, including schools, as of Monday, March 21, 2022. Masks will continue to be required on public transit, in retirement homes, York Region vaccination clinics and other health care settings, shelters and congregate living settings.

All other regulatory requirements for businesses are also lifted as of March 21, including passive screening requirements and safety plans. Businesses and organizations in the community may choose to maintain their own masking policy.

Should COVID-19 rates continue to stabilize, the province plans to lift all the remaining measures, directives and orders as of Wednesday, April 27, 2022.

Reducing the risks from COVID-19

As masks move from being mandated to optional, it is important to remember COVID-19 is still in the community. To protect yourself and those around you, assess your personal risks levels and continue to carry a mask with you so you can be empowered to make smart decisions.

York Region Public Health encourages individuals to wear a mask when indoors and in one of the three Cs:

  • Close contact
  • Crowds
  • Confined or poorly ventilated spaces

Some may choose to continue wearing masks in all settings due to personal circumstances. Please be kind to those around you and respect their choices. We are all adjusting at our own pace!

Vaccination is still our best, and now, one of our last defences against COVID-19. Third doses are critically important for everyone age 12 and over and can boost protection against severe illness by 95%. COVID-19 vaccination are available by walk-in or appointment at york.ca/COVID19Vaccine or by calling Access York for assistance at 1-877-464-9675.

Continue to monitor yourself and family members for COVID-19 symptoms and stay home when sick. For information on what to do if you have symptoms or test positive for COVID-19 visit york.ca/health/covid-19/symptoms-transmission-treatment-and-testing