Face coverings mandatory in all indoor public places today

EDMONTON (CITYNEWS) – Edmonton’s mandatory masks bylaw for all indoor public spaces came into effect today.

Previously, council had only mandated masks on Edmonton transit and in city-owned facilities under Phase 2 of the city’s mandatory face mask plan.

It’s mandatory mask day in Edmonton.

Here’s some FAQ about what qualifies as a face covering (sorry, face shield lovers) and what exemptions are being granted. #yeg #yegcc pic.twitter.com/RsZSWgf63q

— Courtney Theriault (@cspotweet) August 1, 2020

Last Wednesday, council voted 10-3 to move to the third phase of the plan and make face coverings compulsory in all indoor public places after reviewing mask bylaws in Calgary and Toronto.

If you’re caught without a non-medical mask or face covering, you could be paying a fine of $100.

READ MORE: Face masks also beneficial outdoors, says Canada’s top doctor

There are some exceptions laid out in the bylaw: children under two don’t have to wear a mask, nor do people who are “unable to place, use, or remove a mask without assistance”.

You won’t have to wear a mask when you’re eating or drinking in designated seating areas, working out, or swimming, or if you’re participating in a religious ceremony.

Calgary’s mandatory face mask bylaw also came into effect Saturday.