Masks will be mandatory in Burlington condos and apartments

Published August 14, 2020 at 3:53 pm

The City of Burlington is amending its mandatory mask by-law to include condominium and apartment buildings.

The City of Burlington is amending its mandatory mask by-law to include condominium and apartment buildings.

The by-law will go into effect starting Aug. 20 in “an effort to expand protections and reduce transmission of COVID-19”, according to an official media release from the city.

Burlington City Council also approved extending the temporary mask by-law until Jan. 31, 2021; however, it can still be rescinded earlier or extended beyond Jan. 31.

“We listened to our residents who have been requesting additional protections for public areas in condos and apartments,” said Mayor Marianne Meed Ward

“We need to use every tool we have to keep our community safe wherever they are. We also thank those buildings in our city who have already voluntarily asked residents to wear a mask in common areas.”

The temporary mask by-law states that masks or face coverings must be worn in enclosed, public spaces including most common areas of condominiums and apartment buildings.

It includes exemptions for those who cannot wear a mask for medical reasons including mental health concerns, children under the age of five, and other “reasonable accommodations”.

“Adjusting to the mandatory mask by-law will take some time. Residents are encouraged to be kind and compassionate with each other and to approach fellow community members who may not be wearing a mask with understanding and offers of assistance, rather than judgement,” concluded the City of Burlington in its official media release.

The by-law also permits the temporary removal of a mask or face covering when receiving services, having a meal, or engaging in athletic or fitness activity. It does not apply to child care facilities and schools, employee-only areas, and areas that are not enclosed (like restaurant patios).

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