Throughout the pandemic, City of London By-law officers have been focused on upholding restrictions that have been put in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our community. Recent changes to Provincial regulations have identified expanded authority for enforcement agencies, as the threat of COVID-19 has continued to escalate over the past several weeks.
With these changes, City of London By-law wants to assure the community that our approach to enforcement will not change, and there will not be random stops of individuals. This is consistent with the approach we have always taken.
“COVID-19 and public health protocols aimed at curbing the spread should be taken seriously, but no Londoner should worry about being arbitrarily stopped or questioned - either by Police or By-law enforcement - as part of new provincial regulations. That simply won’t be happening in our community,” said London Mayor Ed Holder.
City By-law officers have and will continue to address infractions at outdoor recreation amenities where activities are prohibited, essential business operations that are not following protocols, gatherings that are above the stated limits, and violations of the mask and face coverings regulations in all settings. We have actively patrolled locations where we have received complaints or where we have observed infractions. That will also continue. As we have throughout the pandemic, By-law officers will continue to use all available options, which may include engagement, education and enforcement.
Our goal remains the same - doing our part to stop the spread of COVID-19, and to protect the safety, health and well-being of the community. We continue to strongly encourage Londoners to follow all Provincial and local health guidance and restrictions for the safety of the community.