April 24, 2021
Ontario Strengthens Enforcement of Stay-at-Home Order
[Updated April 17, 2021 at 2 pm]
Based on the latest information from the provincial government information from the provincial government on April 16, 2021, landscaping services, including maintenance and construction, continue to be permitted in Ontario.
There are some exceptions for commercial construction. We recommend that you ask the general contractor to get verification in writing.
Here's how the Provincial Government's April 16, 2021 announcement impacts the landscape horticulture profession:
Landscaping Services
Landscaping services are listed as a permitted service. This includes turf management, landscape lighting, landscape irrigation, grounds management, landscape construction, interior plantscaping, and landscape design.
Garden Centres
Garden centres are permitted to be open for: in-person retail at 25% capacity between 7 am and 8 pm; curbside pick-up; and delivery. To calculate 25% capacity: "divide the total square metres of floor space accessible to the public (not including shelving and store fixtures) by 16 and round down to the nearest whole number."
Construction
Construction is permitted, however, there are some exceptions for commercial construction. We recommend that you ask the general contractor to get verification in writing.
Growers
"Businesses are allowed if they: produce food and beverages, agricultural products (including plants), including by farming, harvesting, aquaculture, hunting and fishing."
Snow Clearing
Snow clearing is listed as a permitted service.
Please be aware that the Ontario government has begun provincewide inspections of construction sites. Starting April 16, 2021, the MLTSD dispatched 200 workplace inspectors, supported by provincial offenses officers, to visit 1,300 construction sites to enforce safety requirements.
The fact our profession is permitted to operate is a testament to the diligence the community has shown this year in following public health measures. Let's all continue to do our part to limit the spread of Covid-19. Don't let your guard down!
Vaccines are critical in Ontario's fight against Covid-19. Learn more about Covid-19 vaccines.
This guidance is provided based on information available to us as of Saturday, April 17, 2021 at 2 pm. Updates will be provided as it is available.
Click the link below to find an Essential Worker Template Letter:
Template Letter provided by EIO Solutions
Visit the Covid-19 Resource Hub
