Council Approves Amendments to Face Mask By-Law and Extension to September 30

Based on the advice of Peel Public Health, Council approved an extension to the City’s Mandatory Face Mask By-Law to September 30, 2021, as well as other amendments.

The Mandatory Face Mask By-Law, previously named the Mandatory Face Covering By-Law, requires everyone (subject to some exceptions) to wear a medical or non-medical mask inside buildings where the public is ordinarily invited or permitted access including onboard MiWay buses and inside terminal buildings.

“While we are seeing COVID-19 case numbers drop and vaccine coverage increase, it is still critical to follow the advice of Peel Public Health,” said Mayor Bonnie Crombie. “Since the Mask By-law was enacted in July, 2020, guidance around the use of masks has evolved and the availability of masks has improved. Our By-law has been amended to reflect those changes and ensure that we do all we can to stop the emergence of fast-spreading variants of concern and slow the spread even further.”

According to the amended By-law, a face mask is defined as a mask that is constructed of at least two layers of tightly woven fabric, with a third middle layer of filter-type material, that is secured to the head or ears and that fully covers the mouth, nose and chin without gaping. A medical mask such as surgical mask, N95 or other masks required by health-care workers may be used but are not required. Face coverings such as face shields, scarves, bandanas, neck gaiters or neck warmers are no longer permitted based on the advice from Peel Public Health.

The amended By-law also limits removal of masks for consumption of food or drink only in specific areas inside buildings that are designated for that purpose such as food courts in malls.

For more information on the Mandatory Face Mask By-Law, visit mississauga.ca/city-of-mississauga-news/covid-19-recovery/mandatory-mask-by-law/

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• COVID-19