Limits changed on formal gatherings

Dr. Janice Fitzgerald has amended the Special Measures Orders as they relate to formal gatherings.

Capacity limits are increased for formal gatherings and select venues where proof of vaccination is required.

Limits are increased for indoor and outdoor gatherings operated by a recognized business or organization and recreational and arts facilities may operate at full spectator capacity, without physical distancing between seated spectators/attendees, provided the following measures are in place:

• Proof of vaccination and proof of identity is provided by all attendees aged 12 years or older;

• Spectators/attendees must wear non-medical masks at all times;

• Eating and drinking is not permitted at the gathering or venue;

• The gathering organizers or the venue owners/operators have a method of contacting attendees quickly via email or text, and contact information is kept for at least 14 days; and

• Two metres of physical distancing may be maintained between spectators/attendees in common areas, including line-ups at ticket counters and washrooms.

Indoor and outdoor gatherings operated by a recognized business or organization, and recreational and arts facilities where eating and drinking is permitted, may operate as described below, without physical distancing between seated spectators/attendees, provided the following measures are in place:

• Proof of vaccination and proof of identity is provided by all attendees aged 12 years or older;

• Spectators/attendees are separated into cohorts of up to 200 people, provided that 2 metres of distance between cohorts may be maintained in the seating areas;

• The gathering organizers or the venue owners/operators have a method of contacting spectators/attendees quickly via email or text, and contact information is kept for at least 14 days;

• Physical distancing of 2 metres may be maintained between spectators/attendees in common areas, including line-ups at ticket counters, concessions and washrooms;

• Eating and drinking only occurs in the seated area;

• Spectators/attendees must wear non-medical masks at all times, except when actively eating or drinking.

There are no changes to arenas, gyms and fitness facilities, including yoga studios, indoor swimming pools, indoor tennis, squash facilities and dance studios. Additionally, there are no changes to limits at lounges, buffets at restaurants, and wakes and visitation.