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COVID-19 Resources

Resource • March 22, 2021

The global COVID-19 pandemic has been on-going since March. It has been many months, and municipal governments continue to play an essential role in protecting the health, safety and economic security of residents and business in their communities in every part of Ontario. The human and financial costs are staggering and there is no end in sight; not yet.

Individuals, institutions, and business have made sacrifices and every effort to remain strong and vital despite the challenges. All orders of government have responded with financial and other stabilizing supports. The response of governments has been characterized and driven forward by unity and collaboration, locally, provincially, and nationally, to advance the interests and wellbeing of our communities.

AMO is proud of its role supporting municipal governments through the state of emergency and onward. We have kept or members informed, secured countless urgent policy changes, large and small, and helped secure billions of dollars in financial assistance for municipalities. We are continuing to advance efforts for the recovery, focusing on infrastructure investments that underwrite both economic and social development, and on investments to support broader participation in the economy.

“Municipal government is on the frontline every day, protecting residents, providing essential services, and safeguarding local economies. Rebuilding Ontario’s prosperity means building on the remarkable collaboration of all orders of government since the pandemic began in March.  Municipalities will support our residents, our communities, and enterprises large and small, every step of the way.”

Graydon Smith
AMO President and Mayor, Town of Bracebridge

 
AMO will keep members up to date with news and resource during the pandemic. All relevant AMO updates are below and please stay tuned for more information and FAQs. To prioritize questions coming into AMO regarding COVID-19, we have created an email: covid19@amo.on.ca. Please direct your municipally related pandemic questions to this email.

Contact:

AMO COVID-19
T 416.971.9856
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AMO RESOURCES & FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Two resources available:

How can a municipality offer tax assistance?

The Municipal Act provides the authority for council's to offer short term tax relief to taxpayers facing economic challenges, with limitations. In general, these decisions should be guided by a council's policy intent (ie. responding to the immediate fiscal challenges) as supported and advised by municipal treasury staff. The Municipal Finance Officers Association (MFOA) has a number of resources available to support finance officers.

The City of Mississauga is one of many municipalities which have already passed such measures. Here is a link with a report highlighting the measures taken in that municipality.

Many municipalities are offering tax deferrals and waiving late payment penalties. Here is a list assembled by AMO. The list is not exhaustive but it gives a sense of municipal efforts to support property taxpayers. If you have a council-approved plan to add a deferral, please email: mstaveley-watson@amo.on.ca.

Designing Property Tax Deferrals Prepared by Enid Slack and Tomas Hachard Institute on Municipal Finance and Governance, Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy University of Toronto. March 27, 2020

Every municipality is different, locally appropriate solutions will vary. In two-tier situations, coordination of tax and revenue matters remains important. For further information, elected officials should consult with their finance staff.

What steps can municipalities take to assist taxpayers facing economic challenges related to COVID-19?

Municipalities have the flexibility to provide tax relief within the fiscal year in a variety of ways. For example, municipalities could consider their billing policies and applicable by-laws and explore whether to extend instalment due dates, extend periods to pay without interest, reduce interest rates on overdue taxes, and target assistance for sickness, low-income seniors and low-income persons with disabilities, or where taxes are deemed unduly burdensome.  A number of municipalities have implemented property tax deferrals. In addition, short term relief can also be provided for municipal service fees, i.e., for water and waste management, within the fiscal year. In light of concerns around evictions, municipalities may also wish to review their tax sale policies, particularly in relation to residential property.

Can Ontarians Buy Cannabis Legally During the Emergency Closure Orders?

Yes. As of April 7th, 2020, Ontario cannabis retail stores are able to offer curbside pick-up and delivery of their products during the emergency period. All other conditions on sale such as minimum ages, maximum purchase amounts, original packaging and prohibition on sale to intoxicated persons apply. Cannabis deliveries can only be carried out by a retail licensee or their direct employee – third-party deliveries are prohibited. As well, the person receiving the delivery must be at least 19 years old.

Although they were initially included in the essential services list published to support the March 17th Emergency Declaration, revisions to Ontario’s essential services list on April 3rd removed cannabis retail stores as essential for the purposes of the emergency response to COVID-19. Cannabis stores and others not included in the revised list were ordered to close as of 11:59 p.m. on April 4th. While other retailers were encouraged to offer their services on-line, cannabis stores were prohibited from doing so through Ontario’s licensing conditions, meaning these retailers were left unable to operate at all.

Given the long-term goal of establishing a legal cannabis market in Ontario and continued operation of illegal sales, the Government of Ontario has authorized cannabis stores to offer temporary curb-side pick-up and delivery of their products. The authorization is in place immediately and will continue, possibly with extension, until provincial closure orders are lifted.

As is already the case with purchases through the Ontario Cannabis Store (OCS), AMO understands that stores offering delivery are able to do so in any municipality, including those that have opted out of allowing cannabis retail in their communities. During the Provincial Emergency period the AGCO has announced it will pause new retail store authorizations, however, retail store operator and manager licenses will continue to be processed.

Can Municipal Infrastructure Projects Continue Under the Revised Essential Services List?

Yes. On May 1, 2020 the Premier announced new orders expanding essential services able to re-open including some construction, garden centres and hardware stores, starting on May 4th. The list of additional essential construction services able to resume includes:

  • shipping and logistics;
  • broadband, telecommunications, and digital infrastructure;
  • any other project that supports the improved delivery of goods and services;
  • municipal projects;
  • colleges and universities;
  • child care centres;
  • schools; and
  • site preparation, excavation, and servicing for institutional, commercial, industrial and residential development.

In addition, previous orders exempted projects related to essential services such as water and wastewater as well as some industrial projects related to petrochemicals or manufacturing of products that are needed to manage the spread of COVID-19. Residential projects were also able to proceed if either a footing permit or above grade structural permit have been issued or renovations were started before April 4, 2020.

Work sites that continue to operate must adhere to all applicable conditions, including directives of the Chief Public Health Officer and local public health units, Occupational Health and Safety Act requirements and recently published Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development guidelines for construction sites during COVID-19. Additionally, the government has produced new guidelines for health and safety of workplaces during the COVID-19 outbreak on April 30th. For a list of Ontario’s essential workplaces, please see: Ontario’s Essential Workplaces list.

Does AMO know if Municipalities will qualify for the federal 75% wage subsidy?

According to the Canadian Emergency Wage Subsidy website, public institutions are not eligible for the subsidy. This includes municipalities and local governments, Crown corporations, public universities, colleges and schools, and hospitals.

Information from OMERS on Layoffs during COVID-19

OMERS has provided information on types of employee leaves during COVID-19 from an OMERS Plan Perspective.

Would AMO consider approaching the Province to extend the specific timeline requirements for municipalities to process and decide on planning applications?

AMO is currently working on getting clarification from the province on Ontario Regulation 73/20 under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) released on March 20. The municipal sector has been asking Ontario for a pause on all provincial statutes, regulations, rules, etc. that have specific timelines that municipal governments must follow during this COVID 19 emergency. We have asked the province to confirm the intent and interpretation of this regulation.

On the face of it, Ontario Regulation 73/20 seems to provide the municipal relief sought as broadly read, it appears to pause/suspend all provincial statutory timelines for the duration of the provincial emergency under s. 7.0.1 of the EMCPA. However, we now understand that is a fairly complex legal issue and each provincial ministry has to review its legislation that affect municipal process timelines.

Under EMCPA, the Information and Privacy Commissioner (IPC) has frozen all proceedings; the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal (LPAT) will not have hearings until June 30th and all proceedings are suspended as per the direction under Ontario Regulation 73/20 as their work is seen clearly as administrative judicial proceedings.

As we get clarifications from the province on any suspension(s) of  legislation that affect municipal process timelines, AMO will send out a member update immediately and AMO’s COVID-19 resource page will add these suspensions as they become known. 

  • A message from Minister Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing re suspension of specified timelines associated with land use planning matters that could be applied retroactively to the date that an emergency was declared. If passed, these changes would provide authority for the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing to give municipalities time to focus on the COVID-19 outbreak. (FR) April 9, 2020.

Can District Social Service Administration Boards have virtual Board meetings?

According to the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services there is nothing from a legislative, regulatory or policy guidance perspective that prevents virtual meetings. They do have to be held in accordance with the Board’s procedural by-law. DSSAB Board members should contact their CAO’s for further information.

Can CA Boards meet virtually during the provincial emergency?

Answer - yes. Link to Minister Yurek’s memo.

Can Library Boards meet during the COVID emergency?

Yes, see link to a memo from the Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries

How can students and residents continue to keep up with studies and work given many communities are challenged with reliable, accessible and affordable internet services?

With so many people being required to isolate, and being asked to work remotely, existing disparities in Internet services have been even more exposed through this global pandemic. Adding e-learning tools for students who are experiencing extended school closures will only add further strain to our already stressed systems.

Improved access to affordable, reliable and faster Internet and cellular services is a major priority for AMO and ROMA. Both associations continue to work in partnership with the federal and provincial governments to support communities in improving connectivity for their residents. We are working to ensure the needs of Ontario communities all across the province are reflected in funding programs and policies. More and more, connectivity – both via cellular and broadband –  is the building block of a modern, resilient economy and society. All of our residents across Ontario deserve the opportunity to participate in a well connected province.

What is AMO doing to support members at this time?

AMO has been making sure that members have the most up-to-date information available on COVID-19, collaborating with the Province to shape policy and legislative changes that support municipal business continuity, and developing supports for municipalities to respond, manage and recover from the COVID-19 emergency.

Are there positive messages municipalities can deliver to their residents, community organizations and business?

Here are some variations of confidence-building messages to consider:

“There is no place better prepared than Ontario to respond to the COVID-19 emergency, manage through it effectively, and to rebuild prosperity through a period of recovery.  Municipalities will support the province, our communities, and enterprises large and small, every step of the way.”

“Municipal councils and extraordinary public servants are on the ground, managing in difficult times, and ensuring communities have the services and supports they need to respond to the COVID-19 emergency and rebuild Ontario’s prosperity.”

“Ontario’s $50 billion municipal sector will play a key role in restoring economic activity and prosperity as we move through the COVID-19 emergency.”

AMO COVID-19 UPDATES

PODCASTS & WEBINARS

PODCASTS & WEBINARS

AMO and Redbrick Communications have been supporting members on communications through COVID-19. Additional resources available for a nominal fee through AMO’s Municipal Education Portal. Register now.

 

COVID-19 Communicators Series Virtual Meeting to Share Information # 8

Tuesday, June 16, 2020
Panel: Cheri Davidson, Manager of Communications, Advertising and Marketing, City of Kawartha Lakes; Patrick Casey, Director of Corporate Communications, York Region; Tony Iavarone, Director, Corporate Communications, City of Waterloo; Gary Williams, Director, Communications, Durham Region; and Dana Van Allen, Communications Specialist, Town of Saugeen Shores.

Discussing Pandemic Pay

Friday, June 5, 2020
Join AMO and OMHRA to examine the latest information on the pandemic pay program. Panelists: Jane Albright, Commissioner of Human Resources and Citizen Service, Region of Waterloo & President, Ontario Municipal Human Resources Association (OMHRA), and Monika Turner, Director of Policy, AMO.

An interview with City of Mississauga's former CAO Janice Baker. May 21, 2020

AMO Executive Director Brian Rosborough chats with Janice Baker, who this month retired after 15 years as City Manager with the City of Mississauga. They discuss her career path, working alongside high-profile characters, the rewarding and challenging nature of the municipal workplace, and how municipalities have had to adapt in the face of COVID-19.

Municipal Labour Relations during COVID-19 - Part 2

Wednesday, May 13, 2020
Panel: Jane Albright (moderator), Commissioner of Human Resources and Citizen Service, Region of Waterloo and President, OMHRA, Monika Turner, Director Policy, AMO; Mark Ellis, Director of Human Resources Services, Halton Region; Lori Bolton, Director of Human Resources, City of Orillia and OMHRA, Director; Mark H. Mason, Partner, Hicks Morley; Stephanie N. Jeronimo, Partner, Hicks Morley. Topics of Discussion: Pandemic Pay; Recovery - as employers turn their mind to recovery, what obligations and guidelines should be considered?

COVID-19 Communicators Series Virtual Meeting to Share Information #7

Tuesday, May 12, 2020
Panel: Patrick Casey, Director of Corporate Communications, York Region; Meeta Gandhi, Director of Strategy, Innovation & Engagement and Kathleen Graver, Manager of Communication Services, City of Richmond Hill; Jennifer Hamilton, Director Communications and Stakeholder Relations, Headwaters Health Care; Jason Harnett, Communications Specialist, Town of Gravenhurst; Tony Iavarone, Director, Corporate Communications, City of Waterloo; and Patti McKague, Director, Strategic Communications, City of London.

The role of the CAO during COVID-19: Part 3. May 1, 2020

The third episode of a special 3-part series of the AMO ON Topic Podcast, in which host Nigel Bellchamber and esteemed academic David Siegel examine the vital role that municipal CAOs play in times of crisis – such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

COVID-19 Communicators Series Virtual Meeting to Share Information #6

Tuesday, April 28, 2020
Panel: Patrick Casey, Director of Corporate Communications, York Region; Lisa Caissie, Manager of Strategic Communications & Public Affairs, City of Saint John, NB; Rachael Wraith, Manager of Corporate Communications, Town of Ajax; Kate Campbell, Director of Communications, Northumberland County; Jessica Linthorne, Director of Strategic Initiatives, Town of Saugeen Shores; and Dana Van Allen, Communications Specialist, Town of Saugeen Shores.

The Role of the CAO During COVID-19: Part 2.  April 28, 2020

The second episode of a special three-part series of the AMO ON Topic Podcast, in which host Nigel Bellchamber and esteemed academic David Siegel examine the vital role that municipal CAOs play in times of crisis - such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The Role of the CAO during COVID-19: Part 1.  April 27, 2020

In the first episode of a special three-part series of the AMO ON Topic Podcast, host Nigel Bellchamber welcomes esteemed academic David Siegel to discuss the vital role that municipal CAOs play in times of crisis - such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Municipal Labour Relations during COVID-19 Part - 1

Wednesday, April 22, 2020
Panelists discussed key labour relations issues and evolving legislative changes. Panelists: Mark H. Mason, Partner, Hicks Morley; Stephanie N. Jeronimo, Partner, Hicks Morley; Jane Albright (moderator), Commissioner of Human Resources and Citizen Service, Region of Waterloo & President, Ontario Municipal Human Resources Association (OMHRA); Monika Turner, Director Policy, AMO. Question and Answer Summary

COVID-19 Communicators Series Virtual Meeting to Share Information #5

Tuesday, April 21, 2020
Panel: Ivana Di Millio, Director of Strategic Communications, City of Mississauga; Tony Iavarone, Director of Communications, City of Waterloo; Wanda Bennett, Director of Corporate Communications, Town of Newmarket; Justin Bromberg, Chief of Staff & Communications Manager, United Counties of Prescott-Russell; and Cheri Davidson, Manager of Communications, Advertising and Marketing, City of Kawartha Lakes.

COVID-19 Communicators Series Virtual Meeting to Share Information #4

Tuesday, April 14, 2020
Panel: Patrick Casey, Director of Corporate Communications, York Region (pop. 1.2 million); Patti McKague, Director Strategic Communications & Community Engagement, City of London (pop. 340,000); Tony Iavarone, Director of Communications, City of Waterloo (pop. 120,000); Lisa Caissie, Manager of Strategic Communications & Public Affairs, City of Saint John, NB (pop. 115,000); Justin Bromberg, Chief of Staff and Communications Manager, United Counties of Prescott-Russell (pop. 90,000, across 2,000 square kilometres); and Dana Van Allen, Communications Specialist, Town of Saugeen Shores (pop. 14,500).

COVID-19 Communicators Virtual Meeting to Share Information #3

Tuesday, April 7, 2020
Expert panel includes Patrick Casey, Director of Corporate Communications, York Region; Patti McKague, Director Strategic Communications and Community Engagement, City of London; Rachael Wraith, Manager of Corporate Communications, Town of Ajax; Jason Harnett, Communications Specialist, Town of Gravenhurst; and Jessica Linthorne, Director of Strategic Initiatives, Town of Saugeen Shores.

COVID-19 Communicators Virtual Meeting to Share Information #2

Tuesday, March 31, 2020
Redbrick and AMO virtual expert panel Ivana Di Millo, Communications Director, City of Mississauga; Rachael Wraith, Manager of Corporate Communications, Town of Ajax; Mike Beitz, Communications Manager, Town of Stratford; Jessica Linthorne, Director, Strategic Initiatives, Town of Saugeen Shores, and Brian Lambie, President, Redbrick Communications, share challenges and find practical solutions for managing COVID-19.

AMO Virtual Question Box Panel: Guidance for Meetings with Electronic Attendance

Friday  March, 27, 2020
On March 27, Jody Johnson, Director, Legal Services, Halton Region; Stephen O’Brien, General Manager/City Clerk, City of Guelph; Fred Dean, Municipal Coach and Nigel Bellchamber, moderator, discussed some of the key issues and considerations on conducting council meetings under the new Municipal Emergency Act, 2020.

Exploring Bill 187, Municipal Emergency Act, 2020.  March 25, 2020

AMO Executive Director Brian Rosborough is joined by Nigel Bellchamber and Fred Dean to discuss the document Meetings Guidance For Heads of Council, which was created to assist councils working under Bill 187,  Municipal Emergency Act, 2020.
 


Communications During COVID 19 webinar. March 24, 2020

Redbrick Communications, in partnership with the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), hosted a virtual meeting for public sector communicators to connect with one another, share challenges and find practical solutions.
 

Social Media During A Crisis - AMO Social Media Webinar. February 12, 2020

Social media is both powerful and dangerous in times of crisis. You can provide critical updates in real-time, but just as easily create confusion and add to the chaos. The key is to include social media in your crisis communications plan so that you’re not scrambling to create content in a high-pressure situation.

PROVINCIAL ORDERS, MINISTERIAL LETTERS & FAQS

Letters, Memos, FAQs

Capacity Limit Changes for Some Events in Grey-Lockdown, Phase 1 COVID Vaccination Plan for Frontline Emergency Personnel & new COVID Border Testing Orders. Memorandum from Deputy Minister to Clerks and CAOs March 17 2021-EN

Capacity Limit Changes for Some Events in Grey-Lockdown, Phase 1 COVID Vaccination Plan for Frontline Emergency Personnel & new COVID Border Testing Orders. Memorandum from Deputy Minister to Clerks and CAOs March 17 2021-FR

COVID-19 Relief Funding for Municipalities Program. Memo to Ontario Fire Chiefs from Ontario Fire Marshall. march 16, 2021

2021 COVID-19 Relief Funding for Municipalities. Memo to All Chiefs of Police and Commissioner Thomas Carrique, Chairs, Police Services Boards from Assistant Deputy Minister, Public Safety Divisio, Ministry of the Solicitor General. March 12, 2021

New COVID Border Testing Orders under the Quarantine Act. Memo to All Chiefs of Police and Commissioner Thomas Carrique, Chairs, Police Services Boards. March 11 2021

PHAC Resource Document for Peace Officer Assisting Under the Quarantine Act. February 19, 2021

Enhancing Public Health and Workplace Safety Measures in the Provincewide Shutdown. January 12, 2021

Memo to Municipal Chief Administrative Officers and Clerks re Enforcement of Orders under the Reopening Ontario Act, 2020 from Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Office of the Deputy Minister. December 15, 2020

Memo to All Chiefs of Police and Commissioner Thomas Carrique and Chairs, Police Services Boards re Further Changes to Regulations under the Reopening Ontario Act, from Richard Stubbings, Assistant Deputy Minister, Public Safety Division. December 14, 2020

Memo from General (Ret’d) Rick Hillier, COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Task Force. December 12, 2020

Memo from General (Ret’d) Rick Hillier, COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Task Force (French). December 12, 2020

Enforcement of Orders under the Reopening Ontario Act 2020. Memorandum from Deputy Minister Kate Manson-Smith (Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing). November 16, 2020

Further Changes under the Reopening Ontario Act, 2020. Memorandum from Richard Stubbings, Assistant Deputy Minister, Public Safety Division (Ministry of the Solicitor General). November 15, 2020

COVID-19 Screening Tool for Workplaces (Businesses and Organizations). Ministry of Health. September 25, 2020

COVID-19 Guidance: Summer Day Camps. August 13, 2020
This guidance provides basic information only. It is not intended to take the place of medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or legal advice.

Reopening of Cinemas and Movie Theatres in Ontario. August 5, 2020
In accordance with O. Reg. 364/20: Rules for Areas in Stage 3, the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health has approved a plan to permit cinemas and movie theatres to operate according to the indoor provincial gathering limit of 50, applied on a per auditorium basis subject to all individuals being able to maintain two metres physical distancing. In addition, the plan prohibits access to arcade or game rooms within these facilities.
 
Cinemas and movie theatres are required to follow all existing worker health and safety requirements as outlined in the Occupational Health and Safety Act and its regulations, in addition to any public health requirements as directed by a local medical officer of health, and any other relevant requirements as outlined in policies and guidelines issued by the Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries.
 
The province has developed a guidance document to support the safe reopening of indoor cinemas and movie theatres which includes various public health measures (e.g., physical distancing, hand hygiene), and is available at:
•    EN: https://www.ontario.ca/page/guidance-movie-theatres-during-covid-19
•    FR: https://www.ontario.ca/fr/page/document-dorientation-pour-les-salles-de-cinema-pendant-la-covid-19
 
Please do not hesitate to contact Tony Marzotto, Director, Tourism Policy and Research Branch, at tony.marzotto@ontario.ca if you have any questions.

Reopening Ontario in stages

Emergency Order Update, Ministry of the Attorney General. July 7, 2020
 
Pandemic Pay Memo. Ministry of Health. June 24 2020 

Ontario Energy Board – Fixed Price for Time-of-Use (TOU) Electricity Customers
The Government of Ontario recently announced changes to the electricity price that Regulated Price Plan (RPP) customers on Time-Of-Use (TOU) pricing pay. Effective June 1 through to October 31, 2020, residential and small business customers on TOU pay a fixed price of 12.8 ¢/kWh for electricity consumed all hours of the day and every day of the week.

Fixed Electricity Pricing for Time-of-Use Customers. June 8, 2020
The Government of Ontario has introduced a new fixed electricity price of 12.8 ¢/kWh for customers that are on time-of-use (TOU) prices.

Collection of Enforcement Data related to the Emergency Orders under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act. May 8, 2020. Ministry of the Solicitor General

Advice on the Access to Secondary Residences. May 3, 2020
Memo from the Office of Chief Medical Officer of Health, Public Health, Ministry of Health.

Communication on Regulation 73/20. April 24, 2020. From: Kevin Finnerty, ADM, Heritage, Tourism and Culture
The government extended the March 17, 2020 Declaration of Emergency and made several subsequent Emergency Orders under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act. Of special interest is O. Reg. 73/20, which states that: “Any provision of any statute, regulation, rule, by-law or order of the Government of Ontario establishing any period of time within which any step must be taken in any proceeding in Ontario, including any intended proceeding, shall, subject to the discretion of the court, tribunal or other decision-maker responsible for the proceeding, be suspended for the duration of the emergency, and the suspension shall be retroactive to Monday, March 16, 2020.”  We know that the timeframes under subsections 32(2), 33(4), 34(2), and 42(4) of the Ontario Heritage Act are of particular concern to municipalities. It is the position of the Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries that this regulation applies to these timeframes. Please feel free to reach out to your regular ministry contacts or send an email to heritage@ontario.ca.

Ontario Regulation 257/00 Amendments under the Ambulance Act: Reducing Barriers to Ensure Sufficient Ambulance Service Personnel During Provincial Declarations of Emergency. Steven Haddad, Director, Emergency Health Regulatory and Accountability Branch, Ministry of Health. April 17, 2020

The Honourable Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, letter to all Heads of Council regarding O. Reg. 157/20 under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) to provide municipal government with the flexibility for redeployment and other measures where there is local need during the outbreak including child care, social assistance, and by-law enforcement. (FR). April 16, 2020

A message from Minister Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing  April 9, 2020.
Re suspension of specified timelines associated with land use planning matters that could be applied retroactively to the date that an emergency was declared. If passed, these changes would provide authority for the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing to give municipalities time to focus on the COVID-19 outbreak. (FR)

FAQ-FOI Business Disruptions and Closures. April 6, 2020
The Ministry of Government and Consumer Services’ (MGCS),Information and Privacy Archives Division (IPA) has developed a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) resource to guide Institutions under the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA) with processes impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Office of the Registrar General Memo to Bereavement Authority of Ontario Pandemic Planning. April 6, 2020

Office of the Registrar General Memo re Issuing Burial Permits - Options for Encryption. April 6, 2020

Operation of Seasonal Trailer Parks and Recreational Campgrounds – Amended Essential Business Order as of April 3, 2020. FR. Joint Ministers Letter to Heads of Council. April 4, 2020

Joint Minister Letter to Municipalities re ministerial designation under the Provincial Offences Act to authorize personnel to enforce EMCPA orders. FR.  March 27 2020

Memo from the Chief Medical Officer of Health re appropriate use of protective personal equipment (PPE). March 25, 2020
Memorandum re: Use of Masks for COVID-19 for Non-Health Care Workers sent March 25th from the Chief Medical Officer of Health, Ontario. Provides guidance to non-health care employers about mask personal protective equipment usage.

Memo to Ontario Division Registrars & Marriage Licence Issuers. Office of the Registrar. March 25, 2020

Electronic Meetings During an Emergency

Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Fact Sheet - March 20, 2020

If you have questions regarding how these new provisions may impact your municipality, contact your local Municipal Services Office with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

  • Central Municipal Services Office -Telephone: 416‐585‐6226 or 1‐800‐668‐0230
  • Eastern Municipal Services Office - Telephone: 613‐545‐2100 or 1‐800‐267‐9438
  • Northern Municipal Services Office (Sudbury) - Telephone: 705‐564‐0120 or 1‐800‐461‐1193
  • Northern Municipal Services Office (Thunder Bay) - Telephone: 807‐475‐1651 or 1‐800‐465‐5027
  • Western Municipal Services Office - Telephone: 519‐873‐4020 or 1‐800‐265‐4736

GOVERNMENT OF ONTARIO NEWS RELEASES

Government of Ontario Information

Current News Releases

 

REGULATIONS AS FILED


e-Laws - Regulations as filed

Emergency orders currently in force, under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, have been extended until April 5, 2021, as the province continues to deal with the impacts of COVID-19. In addition, orders currently in force under the Reopening Ontario Act have been extended until April 20, 2021.


O. Reg. 266/21: RESIDENTIAL EVICTIONS
filed April 7, 2021 under under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 265/21: STAY-AT-HOME ORDER
filed April 7, 2021 under under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 264/21: DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY 
filed April 7, 2021 under under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 55/21: COMPLIANCE ORDERS FOR RETIREMENT HOMES 
(Current as of February 5, 2021)
filed under under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 25/21: EXTENSIONS OF ORDERS
(Current as of April 1, 2021)
filed under under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 8/21: ENFORCEMENT OF COVID-19 MEASURES
filed January 12, 2021 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 7/21: DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY
filed January 12, 2021 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 504/20: Extensions and Renewals of Orders
(Revoking O. Reg. 106/20)
filed September 17, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 503/20: Extension of Emergency 
(Revoking O. Reg. 105/20)
filed September 17, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9 

O. Reg. 423/20: Extensions and Renewals of Orders 
(Shortening of previous extensions)
filed July 22, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 422/20: Enforcement of Orders 
(reasonable and probable grounds re: failed to comply around emergency orders; interfered or obstructed any person to comply with an emergency order)
filed July 22, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 421/20: Proceedings Commenced by Certificate of Offence 
(Schedule 80.1 –  change from A Flexible Response to COVID-19 Act, 2020)
filed July 22, 2020 under Provincial Offences Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. P.33

O. Reg. 420/20:  Stages of Reopening (Stage 2/3 as of July 24)
filed July 22, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9
Reg 391-20 – Agreements between health services providers and retirement homes
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20391

O.Reg. 417-20 – Extensions and renewals of orders (Moved to August 13 for temporary payment of employees)
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20417 

O.Reg. 416-20 – Extensions and renewals of orders (Moved from July 22 to July 17)
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20416
 
O.Reg. 415-20 – Rules for areas in Stage 3
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20415

O.Reg. 414-20 – Stage 2 closures
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20414 

O.Reg. 413-20 – Stage 1 closures
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20413 

O.Reg. 412-20 – Streamlining requirements for long-term care homes
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20412 

 O.Reg. 411-20 – Work deployment measures in retirement homes
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20411

O.Reg. 410-20 – Drinking water systems and sewage works
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20410
 
O.Reg. 409-20 – Patios
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20409
 
O.Reg. 408-20 – Special rules re temporary pandemic pay
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20408
 
O.Reg. 407-20 – Management of retirement homes in outbreak
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20407
 
O.Reg. 406-20 – Management of long-term care homes in outbreak
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20406
 
O.Reg. 405-20 – Education sector
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20405
 
O.Reg. 404-20 – Treatment of temporary COVID-19 related payments to employees
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20404
 
O.Reg. 403-20 – Hospital credentialing processes
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20403
 
O.Reg. 402-20 – Certain persons enabled to issue medical certificates of death
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20402
 
O.Reg. 401-20 – Access to personal health information by means of the electronic health record
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20401
 
O.Reg. 400-20 – Congregate care settings
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20400
 
O.Reg. 399-20 – Work deployment measures for mental health and addictions agencies
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20399
 
O.Reg. 398-20 – Limiting work to a single retirement home
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20398
 
O.Reg. 397-20 – Work deployment measures for district social services administration boards
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20397
 
O.Reg. 396-20 – Limiting work to a single long-term care home
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20396
 
O.Reg. 395-20 – Work deployment measures for municipalities
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20395

O.Reg. 394-20 – Deployment of employees of service provider organizations
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20394 

O.Reg. 393-20 – Work deployment measures for service agencies providing violence against women residential services and crisis line services
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20393
 
O.Reg. 392-20 – Temporary health or residential facilities
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20392

O. Reg. 390/20: Use of force and firearms in policing
filed July 15, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 389/20: Signatures in wills and Powers of Attorney
filed July 15, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 388/20: Pick up and delivery services
filed July 15, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg 387/20: Service agencies providing services and supports to adults with developmental disabilities and service providers providing intervenor services
filed July 15, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 386/20: Work deployment measures for boards of health
filed July 15, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 385/20: Enforcement of orders
filed July 15, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 384/20: Prohibition on certain persons charging unconscionable prices for sales of necessary goods
filed July 15, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 383/20: Traffic management
filed July 15, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9​

O. Reg. 382/20: Electricity Price for RPP Consumers 
filed July 15, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9 

O. Reg. 381/20: Work Deployment Measures in LTC Homes
(terms of order set out in Schedule 1)
filed July 15, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 380/20: Electronic Service
(terms of order set out in Schedule 1)
filed July 15, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 380/04: Standards
(Current as of September 4, 2020)
filed under under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg 379/20: Amending subsection 7.0.2 (4)
(Work redeployment terms in Schedule A)
filed July 15, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 378/20: Limitation Periods 
filed July 15, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 364/20: Rules for Areas in Stage 3 
(Starting July 17, for certain regions)
filed July 13, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 363/20: Stages of Reopening 
(Stage 1/2/3 - Starting July 17, different rules for different regions)

O. Reg. 359/20: Extensions and Renewals of Orders 
(Extended from July 10 to July 22)
filed July 8, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 351/20:  Stage 2 Closures 
(applies to all areas in Ontario, starting July 7)
filed July 6, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 350/20: Stage 1 Closures 
(revoked in all areas of Ontario, starting July 7)
filed July 6, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 345/20: Patios 
filed July 2, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 344/20: Stage 2 Closures 
(outdoor dining, take-out, drive through and delivery)
filed July 2, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 324/20: Stage 2 Closures
(Sports recreational and fitness facilities)
filed June 26, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 323/20: Extensions and Renewals of Orders (to July 10)
filed June 26, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 303/20: Stage 1 Closures
(Applying only to Leamington & Kingsville, starting Thursday, June 25)
filed June 24, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 302/20: Stage 2 Closures
(All of Ontario except Leamington & Kingsville, starting Thursday, June 25)
filed June 24, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 300/20: Stage 1 Closures
(children’s day camps)
filed June 23, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 299/20: Stage 2 Closures
(children’s day camps opening June 24)
filed June 23, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 281/20: Extensions and Renewals of Orders
(from June 19 to June 30)
filed June 16, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 280/20: Stage 1 Closures
filed June 16, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 279/20: Stage 2 Closures
filed June 16, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 281-20: Extensions and Renewals of Orders (from June 19 to June 30)
filed June 16, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9 

O. Reg. 280-20:  Stage 1 Closures (Lists PH Units)
filed June 16, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 279-20: Stage 2 Closures (Lists PH Units)
filed June 16, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 276/20: Organized Public Events and Certain Gatherings
(10 person limitation, weddings/ funerals/ religious services)
filed June 12, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 265/20: Closure of Outdoor Recreational Amenities
(revocation for June 12)
filed June 11, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 264/20: Extensions and Renewals of Orders
(revocation date to June 12)
filed June 11, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 263/20: Stage 2 Closures
(List PH Units applicable to and compliance)
filed June 11, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 262/20: Closure of Places of Non-Essential Business (Lists PH Units)
filed June 11, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 259/20: Extensions and Renewals of Orders
(Temporary suspension period of orders and renewals until Sept 11, 2020)
filed June 5, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 258/20: Limitation Periods
(Court System)
filed June 5, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 257/20 Extensions and Renewals or Orders to June 19
filed June 5, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 255/20 Closure of Places of Essential Business
(opening of short-terms rentals except pools and shared rec facilities)
filed June 4, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 247/20 Extensions and Renewals of Orders
(Public lands for recreation camping open June 1, 2020)
filed May 29, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

O. Reg. 246/20 Closure of Establishments
filed May 29, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9
(closure of cinemas and theatres – except drive-ins)

O. Reg. 245/20 Global Adjustment for Market Participants and Consumers
filed May 29, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Extensions and Renewals of Orders O. Reg. 244/20
(electricity price for RPP extended to June 9)
filed May 29, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Electricity Price for RPP Consumers O. Reg. 243/20
filed May 29, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Special Rules Re Temporary Pandemic Pay O. Reg. 241/20
filed May 29, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Management of Retirement Homes in Outbreak O. Reg. 240/20
(related to one member or more outbreak and measures)
filed May 29, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Organized Public Events, Certain Gatherings O. Reg. 239/20
(not applicable for attendance of places of business and ceremonies and access to public washrooms)
filed May 29, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Closure of Places of Non-Essential Businesses  O. Reg. 238/20
(drive-ins, battling cages)
filed May 29, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Extensions and renewals of orders (to June 9) O. Reg. 226/20
filed May 26, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Closure of outdoor recreational amenities (outdoor rec and sport, public and private, community gardens, dog parks, picnic areas) O. Reg. 224/20
filed May 19, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Closure of places of non-essential business (Businesses that can open, including outdoor and indoor rec facilities) O. Reg. 223/20
Filed May 18, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Organized public events, certain gatherings (Religious gatherings in vehicles and only five persons to conduct the service) O. Reg. 222/20
filed May 16, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Closure of establishments (Beginning May 19, rec facilities opening with limitations and public libraries can provide curb-side pickup) O. Reg. 221/20
filed May 15, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Extensions and renewals (May 19 extended to May 29) O. Reg. 220/20
filed May 15, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Closure of Places of Non-Essential Businesses O. Reg. 219/20
filed May 14, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9


Child Care Fees O. Reg. 206/20
filed May 8, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Education Sector O. Reg. 205/20
filed May 8, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Closure of Places of Non-Essential Business O. Reg. 203/20
filed May 8, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Closure of Places of Non-Essential Businesses O. Reg. 200/20
filed May 7, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Extensions and Renewals of Orders O. Reg. 199/20
filed May 5, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Closure of Places of Non-Essential Businesses O. Reg. 196/20
filed May 1, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Treatment of Temporary Covid-19 Related Payments to Employees  O. Reg. 195/20
filed May 1, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Limitation Periods O. Reg. 194/20
filed May 1, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Certain Persons Enabled to Issue Medical Certificates of Death O. Reg. 192/20
filed May 1, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Closure of Establishments O. Reg. 183/20
filed April 29, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Meetings for corporations O. Reg. 178/20
filed April 24, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Congregate care settings O. Reg. 177/20
filed April 24, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Service agencies providing services to adults with developmental disabilities (intervenor) O. Reg. 176/20
filed April 24, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Closure of outdoors rec facilities (incl. community gardens) O. Reg. 175/20
filed April 24, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

LTC home assistance from health service providers O. Reg. 174/20
filed April 24, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Extensions and Renewals of Orders O. Reg. 165/20 
filed April 22, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Signatures in Wills and Power of Attorney O. Reg. 164/20
filed April 22, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Work Deployment Measures for Mental Health and Addictions Agencies O. Reg. 163/20
filed April 22, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Limiting Work to a Single Retirement Home O. Reg. 158/20
filed April 16, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Work Deployment Measures for Municipalities O. Reg. 157/20
filed April 16, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Deployment of Employees of Service Provider Organizations O. Reg 156/20
filed April 16, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Closure of Establishments O. Reg. 155/20
filed April 16, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Work Deployment Measures for District Social Services Administration Boards O. Reg. 154/20
filed April 16, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9O.

Extension of closure of places of non-essential business O. Reg  153/20
filed April 16, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Special Rules Relating to Declared Emergency O. Reg. 149/20 
filed April 15, 2020 under Planning Act , R.S.O. 1990, c. P.13

Work Deployment Measures in Long-Term Care Homes O. Reg. 147/20
filed April 14, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Limiting Work to a Single Long-Term Care Home O. Reg. 146/20
filed April 14, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Work Deployment Measures for Service Agencies Providing Violence Against Women Residential Services and Crisis Line Services O. Reg. 145/20
filed April 14, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Extensions and Renewals of Orders O. Reg. 143/20
filed April 10, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Closure of Places of Non-essential Businesses O. Reg. 136/20 Amending O. Reg. 82/20
filed April 9, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

1. Schedule 2 to Ontario Regulation 82/20 is amended by adding the following paragraph:
29.1  Construction projects that are due to be completed before October 4, 2020 and that would provide additional capacity in the production, processing, manufacturing or distribution of food, beverages or agricultural products.

Use of Force and Forearms in Policing Services O. Reg. 132/20
filed April 8, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Noise By-Laws in Connection With Construction O. Reg. 131/20
filed April 7, 2020 under Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c. 25
In order to facilitate essential health care and residential construction, a regulation was passed (Ontario Regulation 131/20) which limits Section 451.1 of the Municipal Act by lifting municipal noise by-laws to permit certain construction work to continue outside of the normal workday/work week. The decision to work during hours that normally would be prohibited under a noise by-law is at the discretion of the construction company.

Signatures in Wills and Powers Of Attorney  O. Reg 129/20
filed April 7, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Pick up and delivery of cannabis O. Reg 128/20
filed April 7, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Supports to Adults With Developmental disabilities O. Reg. 121/20
filed April 3, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Access to COVID-19 Status Information by Specified Persons O. Reg. 120/20
filed April 3, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9
O. Reg. 120/20, Access to COVID-19 Status Information by Specified Persons, authorizes the first responders to make a request from a “specified custodian” (defined as a laboratory licensed by statute or a medical officer of health) for “COVID-19 status information.” That term is defined and means a person’s name, address, date of birth, and whether that person has tested positive for the virus. (Hicks-Morley)

Work redeployment and staffing Measures for Boards of Health O. Reg. 116/20
filed April 1, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Public Required to Identify Themselves if Charged with Breaching an Emergency Order During the COVID-19 Outbreak  O. Reg. 114/20
filed March 31, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Meetings for Corporations O. Reg. 107/20
filed March 30, 2020 under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Closure of public places and establishments with exemption for emergency child care for health care and frontline essential service workers O. Reg. 51/20
Filed under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.9

Streamlining Requirements for Long-Term Care Homes O. Reg 95/20 March 27, 2020
Largely eclipses the items in the earlier Emergency Order (O. Reg. 74/20) which the Ontario government issued on Monday, March 23, 2020 and the regulatory amendments that was covered in FTR Now of March 24. The new Emergency Order is designed to give long-term care homes broad tools to ensure continuing care during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Hicks Morley)

e-Laws - Regulations as filed - Access to earlier regulations

 

 

MANDATORY FACE MASK BYLAWS (EXAMPLES)

City of Brampton Bylaw

Town of Caledon by-law to require mandatory face coverings in indoor spaces and vehicles accessible to the public in the Town of Caledon

Chatham-Kent Municipal Masks By-law

  • Mandatory in indoor public spaces as of 12:01 A.M on Friday, August 14.

Dufferin-Wellington-Guelph Public Health Unit Class Order

  • Effective June 12. Mandate to wear masks indoors at commercial establishments.

Durham Region Health Department instruction letter on responsibilities to commercial establishments.

Eastern Ontario Health Unit (EOHU) Directive for Mandatory Masking in Indoor Public Spaces

Grey-Bruce Counties Public Health Cloth Mask and other Non-Medical Face Coverings in retail locations

Haliburton, Kawartha and Pine Ridge District Health Unit Directive and FAQ

  • Impacts Northumberland County, Haliburton County, City of Kawartha Lakes
  • Effective July 13. Mandate to wear masks indoors at commercial establishments by public health unit.
  • Businesses being required to develop policies.

Halton Region by law making the wearing of masks mandatory in certain indoor places. 

  • By-law 47-20 became effective July 22 and will be in effect until November 30, 2020

Town of Halton Hills Mandatory Mask By-law

City of Hamilton Public Health Services Face Coverings in Enclosed Public Spaces 

  • By-law shall come into force at 12:01 a.m. on July 20, 2020 and shall be reviewed by the Board of Health every 3 months unless directed otherwise by City Council.

Hastings and Prince Edward Counties Health Unit Directive

  • Mandate to wear masks indoors at commercial establishments by public health unit.
  • Businesses being asked to develop policies.
  • Letter to Businesses
  • FAQs

Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox & Addington Public Health Mandatory Face Coverings

Lambton Shores Face Covering By-law

Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit Directive for Face Coverings/Masks

Middlesex-London Public Health Unit Directive Face Covering Requirements

  • Effective July 20, 2020.

City of Mississauga Mandatory Face Covering By-law For Indoor Public Spaces

  • City Council has extended Mississauga's COVID-19 mandatory face-coverings bylaw and restaurant restrictions until June 20, 2021.

City of Ottawa Public Health Mandatory Mask Directive. Ottawa Public Health is mandating the use of masks in many indoor public spaces.

Prince Edward County By-Law to Impose Temporary Regulations Requiring the Wearing of Face Coverings Within enclosed public spaces

Quinte Waste Solutions Mandatory mask poster

Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit Mask order FAQs

  • Effective July 13. Masks required when entering indoor public spaces like businesses or on public transit.

City of St. Catharines City Temporary Bylaw to be drafted by July 13.

  • Effective July 14 and expiring on August 24. Making face coverings mandatory in enclosed public spaces.

Town of Tecumseh Face Covering Policy for Visitors and Contractors

City of Toronto by-law to impose temporary regulations requiring the wearing of masks or other face coverings within enclosed public spaces


Region of Waterloo Face covering by-law in enclosed spaces by-law

Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health Face Covering Class Order

  • Effective June 12, 2020, any customer, patron, employee or visitor, who enters a commercial establishment in the WDG region is required to wear a face covering while inside the establishment.

Windsor-Essex County Health Unit Masks FAQs

York Region Mandatory Use of Face Masks and Coverings

  • As of 12:01 a.m. Friday July 17, 2020, masks or face coverings are required inside enclosed public spaces in York Region.

ECONOMIC RESOURCES

Supporting Ontario’s Communities: Long-term Prosperity in the Wake of COVID-19 - Submission to the Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs July 15, 2020

Immediate Financial Assistance for Municipal Governments Letter to the Prime Minister of Canada and Premier of Ontario from AMO President urging the governments of Canada and Ontario to work together to invest in the financial stabilization of municipalities and the recovery of local economies comprising the prosperity of the Province and the Country. May 14, 2020

FedDev Ontario launches Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) to support local economies. May 13, 2020

Government of Canada Regional Relief and Recovery Fund Nearly $1B in support to affected businesses and communities. This initiative is implemented by the six regional development agencies, which are familiar with their regions' economic realities and are often the first point of contact for people at the local level. The Fund will help to:

  • mitigate the financial pressure experienced by businesses and organizations to allow them to continue their operations, including paying their employees;
  • support projects by businesses, organizations and communities to prepare now for a successful recovery.

Municipal Government Services and Ontario and Canada’s Economic Recovery. Letter from Jamie McGarvey, AMO President and Mayor of Parry Sound to The Honourable Bill Morneau, Minister of Finance, Department of Finance Canada and The Honourable Rod Phillips, Ontario Minister of Finance. May 8, 2020

Bring Back Main Street A nationally-coordinated research and advocacy campaign, developed by the Canadian Urban Institute, to ensure the people, business and organizations that that call Canada’s main streets home can recover and emerge from the crisis more resilient than ever.  Resources.

COVID-19 Economic Support Task Force and Support for Business. City of Brampton

Business Resources: COVID-19. City of Brockville

Business Support Services and Programs – COVID-19. City of Cambridge

COVID-19 Business Recover Resources. Town of Collingwood

COVID-19 Support. EDCO

COVID-19 Resources For Businesses. Grey County

COVID-19 Resources and Funding. Municipality of Kincardine

First Report from the Mayor’s Economic and Social Impact and Recovery Task Forces. City of London. April 9, 2020

COVID-19 Response. City of Mississauga’s Economic Development Office (EDO)

COVID-19 Business Support Survey Overview - Survey Report. Niagara Region. Survey captures the situation during the first few weeks of COVID-19.

Business Reopening Toolkit. City of Ottawa

COVID-19 Timmins Economic Development Corporation (TEDC)

Business Resources - COVID-19. Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville. The Northern Six (N6) municipalities of York Region (Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Newmarket and Stouffville) and the York Region Economic Strategy Office are working together to assist local businesses through this crisis.

Rapid Placemaking to Bring Back Main Street: A Pandemic Recovery Toolkit for Local Communities
The Pandemic Recovery Toolkit for Local Communities provides examples of programming and interventions, as well provides advice on how to use inclusive process for rapid placemaking. It is can be used by residents, community groups, BIAs/BIDs, and city staff working to revive main streets and core spaces in big cities, suburbs and small towns. The Toolkit was created by Happy City as part of Bring Back Main Street.

 

HUMAN RESOURCES - HICKS MORLEY

 

Hicks Morley Insights


Ontario Government Provides Temporary Relief from ESA Termination and Severance Provisions in Response to COVID-19.  May 31, 2020

Ontario Updates Its COVID-19 Self-Assessment Tool. May 20, 2020
The province updated the Tool on May 8, 2020 and May 14, 2020. Significantly, the Tool now directs Ontarians with any of 17 listed COVID-19 symptoms to self-isolate and contact a doctor or Telehealth Ontario for further instructions as they may be eligible for testing. Prior to the updates, individuals with less serious symptoms had been advised that they must self-isolate for 14 days and that they did not need to contact a doctor or Telehealth Ontario. The Tool has also added new recommendations to self-isolate for pregnant women, new mothers and people regularly going into a hospital or health care setting for treatment, all of whom are now considered “at-risk groups.”

Ensuring a Successful Return to Work in a COVID-19 World. May 20, 2020

Employees Who Continue to Work from Home – Practical Considerations for Employers. May 20, 2020

COVID-19 and Long-Term Care – Government Permits Mandatory Management Orders to Address COVID-19 Challenges. May 13, 2020

Federal Government Will Not Permit Employers to Top-Up the CERB Through a SUB Plan. May 11, 2020

Temporary Pandemic Pay – Update on Recent Developments. May 7, 2020

New Measures to Support the Delivery of Frontline Care in the Long-Term Care Setting. April 25, 2020

Emergency Orders Made Regarding Municipal Work Deployment and Staffing in Light of COVID-19. April 17, 2020

COVID-19 and Long-Term Care – Ontario Government Imposes “Single-Employer” Rule for Long-Term Care Employees. April 15, 2020

Federal Wage Subsidy Legislation Passed. April 13, 2020

Emergency Order Allows First Responders Access to COVID-19 Information. April 9, 2020

Additional Details of Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy and Enhanced Summer Jobs Program Released. April 9, 2020

COVID-19 Update: Questions and Answers for Municipalities. April 8, 2020

Federal Government Releases Further Details for COVID-19 Economic Relief. April 2, 2020

New Long-Term Care Homes Emergency Order Issued. March 28, 2020

New Canada Emergency Response Benefit and Tax Relief Measures. March 26, 2020

COVID-19 and Long-Term Care – Ontario Takes Significant Steps to Address Staffing Concerns. March 24, 2020

Ontario’s Announcement about Closure of Non-Essential Businesses: Questions and Answers for Employers. March 23, 2020

COVID-19 and Staffing - Province Issues Emergency Order for Health Service Providers. March 22, 2020

Ontario Amends the ESA to Extend Employee Protections in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic. March 19, 2020

Federal Government Announces Further Support for Workers Affected by COVID-19. March 18, 2020

Ontario Declares Emergency in Light of COVID-19. March 17, 2020

Update on COVID-19 for Employers: Ontario to Amend the ESA to Protect Jobs. March 16, 2020

COVID-19 – Questions and Answers for Employers. March 14, 2020

 

 

MENTAL HEALTH AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT

Ontario Expands Virtual Mental Health Services. May 5, 2020
Free internet-based programs help people cope with unprecedented situation.

Ontario Providing Additional Relief to the Province's Most Vulnerable Working with the OCSA, the government launched a new Ontario Community Support Program to expand existing Meals on Wheels services to reach low-income seniors and people with disabilities and chronic medical conditions. The program will also develop the capacity of community organizations and others to help deliver medication and other essentials. Local 2-1-1 services will provide information and referral to the program. 

Mental Health and COVID-19 & Healthy Kids At Home. City of Brantford

While managing COVID-19 watch for signs of Mental Health Risk. Workplace Safety & Prevention Services


Webinars

BEACON - A Digital Mental Health Therapy Program for Municipalities. Webinar March 26, 2020
AMO is partnering with BEACON, a service that delivers cognitive behavioural therapy (iCBT) digitally, with one-on-one guidance of a registered therapist. In this webinar, representatives from BEACON demonstrate how municipalities can support employees, and their dependents, immediately access effective and quality mental health care through the BEACON platform.


 

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Consumer Alert: Beware of scams during the COVID-19 emergency

The Ontario Energy Board (OEB) is aware of increasing efforts by scam artists attempting to take advantage of consumer uncertainty during this COVID-19 emergency. April 17, 2020


Association of Municipal Managers, Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario COVID-19 Resources and updates

Canadian Urban Transit Association  - COVID-19 guidance for the public transit industry

Canadian Chamber of Commerce - Pandemic preparedness for business

CityShare Canada is a platform that aggregates examples of community-based resilience across Canada to accelerate collective problem solving and help local communities respond. It showcases resources, tools and neighbourhood-by-neighbourhood, block-by-block examples of how communities are coping and adapting to COVID-19 from coast to coast to coast.

CityTalk Canada Candid conversations, analysis and commentary on the new urban reality under COVID-19

CityWatch Canada is an interactive map that tracks the local government response to COVID-19 in communities across Canada. It showcases data from Canadian communities on key decision points: whether a state of emergency has been declared at the provincial and/or municipal level; whether key municipal services and facilities have been closed or reduced; changes to council and committee meetings; and more.

COVID-19 and Municipal Cybersecurity Cyber criminals are taking advantage of both human and system weaknesses during the COVID-19 crisis. Municipal councils and staff need to be vigilant when protecting their IT systems and infrastructure by enhancing cybersecurity measures.

Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) COVID-19 resources for municipalities

  • FCM's COVID-19 Street Rebalancing Guide. Drawing on case studies from around the world, it offers strategies and practical guidance on rebalancing streets through three phases of COVID-19 response—from immediate to longer-term—including pedestrian and bike lanes, curbside queuing areas, and temporary patios and parklets. June 2020

Financial Relief Navigator  The FRN is a bilingual, one-stop, online portal developed to help vulnerable Canadians and those financially impacted by COVID-19 to identify and access emergency relief.  It offers  comprehensive information on emergency benefits and debt/expense relief available from the federal, provincial and territorial governments, as well as all major banks, credit unions, utilities, telecoms and internet providers.

Infrastructure Health & Safety Association. COVID-19 Updates.

Municipal Finance Officers' Association COVID-19 resources

Municipal World Podcasts Municipal Pandemic Response podcast keeps you updated on what’s happening with the COVID-19 pandemic and its impacts on local government. Guests include experts, leaders, and practitioners from across North America as they discuss the challenges for communities in the face of coronavirus. We explore the municipal response to manage now, sharing ideas and best practices during a time of emergency, as well as casting an eye to the future, to the steps that will be required for economic recovery.

Ontario Medical Association - Includes list of Public Health Units and Assessment Centres. A map shows nearest assessment site. Please do not visit an assessment centre unless you have been referred by a healthcare professional.

Rural Travelers Guideline Tips sheet: Do’s and Don’ts for Cottaging During the COVID-19 pandemic. Society of Rural Physicians of Canada (SRPC) Medical Student Committee.

World Health Organization  - Global updates and guidance on the COVID-19 outbreak
 

INFOGRAPHICS AND OTHER MUNICIPAL RESOURCES

AMO members are sharing infographics that you can use to get information and messages across during COVID-19 - no permission required. If you have any you can share please send them to: covid19@amo.on.ca 

Municipal World's Pandemic Response Document Collection
The Collection features actual sample documents – including declarations of emergency, infographics, news releases, signs, tracking sheets, and more. The documents are intended to serve as a resource – examples that Canadian municipalities can adapt and modify for their local purposes. (Note that this collection is free to access, but you must complete a simple registration if you are not already a member.)

By-laws and Other Directives

Electronic Council Meetings

Essential Outings

Infographics - Spread Some Kindnesss

Physical/Social Distancing

Playgrounds

Public Health

Volunteering and Donations

Stouffville Community Care Network. Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville. The Stouffville Community Care Network is a webpage that connects those in need of help with those willing to offer assistance because of the COVID-19 pandemic. We have vulnerable members of our community in self-isolation who are in need of assistance. From grocery store and pharmacy pick-ups to hot meal delivery or just a friendly phone chat, this webpage can make the connections through a safe and secure platform to other community members wanting to provide assistance.

Volunteering and Donations. City of Brantford

Recycling/Waste Management

 

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