MARKHAM, ON – September 21, 2021 – On September 14, the Government of Ontario released regulations and guidance requiring proof of vaccination to enter recreation facilities. The City of Markham will be moving forward with additional measures for all visitors, in accordance with provincial regulations.

Starting September 22, proof of full vaccination will be required to enter indoor recreation facilities by all visitors who are 12 years of age and older. Provincially defined medical exemptions apply.

When entering, you must show:

• Ontario Ministry of Health COVID-19 vaccination receipt or other government issued vaccination record indicating that you are fully vaccinated, plus 14 days from your second shot;

• Identification which includes name and date of birth (photo ID is not required); and,

• Proof of completion of City of Markham COVID-19 Screening Questionnaire on your mobile device or a printed copy.

The City of Markham will implement further guidelines to support our community sport groups governed by a recognized Provincial or National Sport Organization.

Throughout the pandemic, the City of Markham has taken a balanced and cautious approach to reopening in order to help keep our community safe.

Requiring all visitors who are 12 years of age and older to be vaccinated provides safer recreation experiences that support mental, emotional and physical well-being and keep our community safe. The health and safety of our visitors, community and our staff remains our number one priority as we navigate the pandemic.

As of today, 71.9% of youth, aged 12 to 17 in York Region, have received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine and 81.5% have received at least one dose.

Vaccines are safe, effective and are the best way to protect yourself and others from serious illness. For more information about how to get vaccinated, visit york.ca/covid19vaccine.

Markham’s Contact Centre continues to respond to inquiries about municipal services and programs at customerservice@markham.ca and 905.477.5530, Monday to Friday between 8 AM and 5 PM.

For more information and updates about COVID-19 and affected City services, visit markham.ca/covid19.

Related links:

• Government of Ontario’s vaccination regulations

• COVID-19 information and updates

• York Region Public Health

• COVID-19 vaccine provincial booking portal

• Proof of vaccination guidance for businesses and organizations

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Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti's Office:
Bryan Frois, Chief of Staff at bfrois@markham.ca or 416.567.1177.

All other media inquiries / interview requests for the City of Markham:
Jennifer Yap, Coordinator, Communications and Media Relations at jyap@markham.ca or 437.229.2450.

For COVID-19 announcements from the City of Markham:
Visit markham.ca/covid19 or listen to 105.9 The Region – Markham’s information and emergency radio station.

About Markham: Markham, an award-winning municipality with more than 351,000 residents and the largest of nine communities in York Region, is home to over 650 headquartered companies and more than 1,500 high tech and life science companies. Markham is a leader in attracting foreign direct investment with more than 234 foreign companies located in the City. Founded in the 1790s, today Markham is Canada’s most diverse community and enjoys a rich heritage, outstanding community planning and services, and a vibrant local economy.

Stay Connected: Visit our newsroom or search #MarkhamNews and #MarkhamEvents for the latest information on City programs, services and event.