On September 14, the Government of Ontario released of regulations and guidance requiring proof of vaccination to enter certain facilities. In accordance with the law, the City of Mississauga will require proof of vaccination to access select indoor services such as City-owned fitness centres, entertainment/cultural venues and sports facilities starting Wednesday, September 22. Exemptions will be made as permitted by the Government of Ontario’s regulations.

“We continue to take every action possible to protect the health and safety of our residents, which is why requiring proof of vaccination for indoor settings makes sense,” said Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie. “We need to keep our local businesses and indoor services open and safe to avoid another lockdown.”

In advance of September 22, those who require their vaccine certificate can print or download their vaccination receipt from the provincial booking portal. To help residents who may not have access to a printer, all Mississauga Libraries are providing free printing service for customers requiring a paper copy of their vaccination certificate.

“We are working behind the scenes to train our staff and volunteers on how and when to check for vaccination certificates and they will be able to assist you when visiting City of Mississauga facilities,” said Paul Mitcham, City Manager and Chief Administration Officer. “It’s recommended that fully vaccinated residents begin to carry their vaccine certificates and a piece of ID with them in case they need it, starting September 22.”

Vaccine certifications are required in indoor areas such as:

• Restaurants, bars and other food or drink establishments

• Meeting and event spaces, including conference centres or convention centres

• Facilities used for sports and recreational fitness activities, including waterparks and personal physical fitness trainers

• Facilities where spectators watch events

• Casinos, bingo halls and other gaming establishments

• Concert venues, theatres and cinemas

• Both the indoor and outdoor areas food or drink establishments where dance facilities are provided, including nightclubs, restoclubs and other similar establishments

Proof of vaccination is not required in:

• Libraries, court houses or those accessing essential city services like paying tax bills or obtaining building permits

• Children under the age of 18 participating in an organized sport, however spectators including parents and guardians must show proof of vaccination to enter

• Rental spaces used for day camps, child care and social services

• Wedding ceremonies, religious services/rites and funerals (ceremony only)

• Gatherings at private residences

• Outdoor events

A full list of where proof of vaccination is required can be found in the Government of Ontario regulations.

Businesses that require support on implementing the vaccine certificate regulations can access the Government of Ontario’s Guidance for Businesses resources.