The Town of Saugeen Shores recently announced that the state of emergency for the COVID-19 pandemic that was put in place on march 24th, 2020 was lifted as of 10:00 p.m. on Monday, September 13th, 2021.
“With low case numbers and high levels of vaccination, it is time for Saugeen Shores to exit the state of emergency declared in March 2020,” said Mayor Luke Charbonneau. “The end of the state of emergency does not mean the pandemic is over. It is simply another step forward toward reopening our community.”
On September 22nd, however, Saugeen Shores implemented the Ontario government’s requirement for residents to be fully vaccinated (including the 14-day waiting period) and provide their vaccination receipt or medical exemption alongside government-issued identification to access some indoor Town programs and facilities.
Residents who are 12 years or older must show proof of vaccination to access:
- Recreation programs and activities (excluding organized sports)
- Spectator and viewing areas
- Recreational fitness areas
- Sporting events
- Indoor meeting and event spaces
When attending a facility for the sole purpose of actively participating in an organized sports program, residents who are under 18 years old are exempt from providing proof of vaccination or medical exemption. This includes sports leagues, organized pick-up sports, competitive swimming and swimming lessons.
Medical exemptions from a doctor must include the reason for the exemption and any time limits associated with it.
The province is now working to roll out a digital vaccine certificate and exemption platform. Until then, residents must bring a physical or digital copy of their vaccination receipt or medical exemption along with identification. Users and visitors will continue to check-in with staff or their user groups for screening and contact tracing.
Download a vaccine receipt online at covid19.ontariohealth.ca using a green health card and postal code. Anyone with red and white health cards or no health card must call 1-833-943-3900. Vaccination receipts can be printed at no charge from all Bruce County library branches during operating hours.
Proof of vaccination is not required for patrons entering an indoor area solely for the following purposes:
- to use a washroom (except at recreation facilities);
- to access an outdoor area that can only be accessed through an indoor route;
- to make a retail purchase;
- while placing or picking up an order;
- while paying for an order;
- to purchase admission; or
- as may be necessary for the purposes of health and safety
All Grey Bruce Health Unit guidelines and Provincial regulations, including mask requirements, adhering to capacity limits and physical distancing, will apply at all times when accessing Town programs, services and facilities.
