Reminder: Strathcona County face coverings bylaw in effect September 10 requires masks in places of worship

On Saturday, September 4, provincial masking rules took effect in all indoor public places, workplaces and vehicles in Alberta for everyone ages two and over. In addition to the provincial mandate, Strathcona County’s Temporary Mandatory Face Coverings Bylaw 53-2021 takes effect on Friday, September 10.

Regulations in the County’s bylaw and the Province’s order are similar, but there are a few important differences that residents should note:

• Under the provincial order, masks must be worn at any funeral or wedding in an indoor public place.
• The provincial order exempts places of worship from mask wearing; however, the County bylaw requires anyone in a place of worship in Strathcona County to wear a mask, except when eating or drinking as part of a religious or spiritual ceremony (e.g. communion) ; or when participating on platform and stage areas during worship services (e.g. officiating or performing), if a physical barrier exists or physical distance of two metres (six feet) is maintained from members of the congregation.

Until further notice, masks are mandatory in:

• Public vehicles for hire (taxis, rideshares, vehicles for hire)
• Publicly accessible spaces in workplaces, and anywhere in an employee-only area where employees are not at a workstation and separated by two metres (six feet) or a barrier (e.g. plexiglass)
• Public indoor spaces and events (malls, grocery stores, retail businesses, places of worship)
• County facilities (recreation centres, County buildings) except when exercising or participating in athletics, water activities, dance, theatre or musical performances 

Failure to wear a mask as required under the County bylaw can result in a fine of $100. The public and businesses may phone local RCMP at 780-467-7741 for assistance or conflicts with the masking regulations.

Masks can help prevent the spread of COVID-19, especially when combined with COVID-19 vaccinations, physical distancing, hand washing and staying home when you’re sick. Please continue to be kind, patient and respectful with all community members.

Exemptions from the provincial order can be found online at alberta.ca/covid19.

Posters for businesses and community groups to use are available.

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Contact: Strathcona County Communications, 780-410-6595