Masks & Face Coverings
Updated July 29, 2020
Effective August 1, 2020, wearing a mask or face covering will be mandatory in all indoor public places and public vehicles. This applies to the publicly accessible areas of businesses/retail and includes transit, transit centres and LRT platforms.
- Wearing a mask or face covering helps keep your community safe.
- It is a quick, easy and effective way to protect each other.
- Caring for our community is the Edmonton thing to do.
This bylaw works to strike a balance between encouraging the use of face coverings for everyone’s protection, and understanding that not everyone can wear a face covering. We know that wearing a face covering is an important factor in preventing the spread of COVID-19 and we want it to become second nature to Edmontonians.
Exemptions to the bylaw
- Children under 2 years old
- People with underlying medical conditions or disabilities that prevent them from safely wearing a face covering and those who cannot wear or remove one without assistance
- People eating or drinking inside public spaces that offer food or beverages
- People who are exercising or engaging in athletic activities
- Caregivers or those accompanying someone with a disability
- People who need to temporarily remove their face covering to provide or receive a service
We all need to do our part
- Business owners and operators will not be responsible for enforcement and can choose whether to deny service to those who do not comply with the bylaw. Business owners may also sell or provide masks to customers if they choose.
- It does not apply to schools; hospitals and health-care facilities; child-care facilities; and employee-only spaces where physical barriers have been installed between employees and patrons.
- The proposed fine is $100, and it will take effect August 1, 2020.
- Administration will take an education based approach to enforcement and will partner with local businesses to ensure they have the information and tools they need to communicate with their staff and patrons. Education and awareness efforts will highlight the value face coverings have to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
- Proof is not required if someone has an exception.
- The bylaw will be repealed December 31, 2020, unless extended by Council.