Today the Ontario government announced changes to the Grey-Lockdown.While indoor dining continues to be prohibited for areas in the Grey-Lockdown level of the Framework, according to news sources, starting Saturday at 12:01am outdoor dining is permitted for regions in Grey-Lockdown, subject to physical distancing rules and a number of other public health and workplace safety measures.
Limiting tables for outdoor dining in Grey-Lockdown to members of the same household with exemptions for patrons who live alone and caregivers
A sign posted by the establishment in a location visible to the public that states the maximum capacity (number of patrons) they are permitted to operate under
Require patrons to be seated; 2 metres minimum or impermeable barrier required between tables
Limit of 4 people may be seated together
Require contact information for all seated patrons
Face coverings required except when eating or drinking only
Establishments must be closed from 10 pm to 5 am
Liquor sold or served only between 9 am to 9 pm
No consumption of liquor permitted between 10 pm to 9 am
Dancing, singing and the live performance of music is prohibited
Limit volume of music to be low enough that a normal conversation is possible
Night clubs and strip clubs only permitted to operate as restaurant or bar
A safety plan is required to be prepared and made available upon request
The rules for retail remain the same:
50% capacity limit for supermarkets, convenience stores, pharmacies, and other stores that primarily sell groceries continues
25% capacity limit for all other retail stores, including, big box stores, liquor stores, hardware stores, and garden centres.
Curbside pick-up and delivery permitted.
Stores must post capacity limits publicly (Post at any entrances customers and staff may use.)
Stores must have passive screening for patrons. This can be done by posting this screening poster at your store’s entrance
For restaurants, cafe’s, bars, interested in participating in CafeTO, the deadline for 1st round is March 26th. Please try and get your applications is as early as possible as this program has gained a lot of momentum and applications will be dealt on first come first serve basis.
If there are specific challenges that you are having in regard to Ontario government grants, please get in touch with MPP Peter Tabun’s office. Also, contact them if the current Ontario grants aren’t working for you.
As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or require my assistance. Our BIA is committed to helping our community thrive and flourish. Not only do we actively promote our local businesses, we are also working to help connect business owners with the tools and resources they need to succeed.
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