Ontario is lifting mask mandates for most indoor public settings as of March 21, with the remaining COVID-19 regulations to be lifted at the end of April.

This news was part of an announcement made by Ontario’s chief medical officer of health, Dr. Kieran Moore earlier today (March 9).

“We are now learning to live with and manage COVID-19 for the long term,” he said. “This necessitates a shift to a more balanced response to the pandemic.”

Masks will not be required for schools, restaurants, event spaces, gyms and stores.

Mask mandates will remain in place for higher-risk settings such as long-term care, retirement homes, hospitals and congregate care and living settings until April 27.

Moore added mask mandates may be reinstated, depending on COVID-19 case numbers.

The chief medical officer of health’s announcement comes after the province ended the mandatory proof of vaccination requirement to enter non-essential businesses on March 1.

Local schools

In a letter to families, the Trillium Lakelands District School Board (TLDSB) told students, staff, and visitors that they will no longer be required to wear a mask when in a TLDSB building as of March 21.

Individuals are welcome to continue to wear a mask.

“We ask that individuals be kind and respectful of the decisions made by others in all areas of personal protection,” it reads

Visitors will be permitted in school buildings and proof of vaccination is no longer required for essential visitors, agencies and other non-staff workers.

– staff