Masks will be mandatory in Richmond’s city-operated facilities starting Nov. 1.
Council decided on the policy in late September, whereby the public has to wear masks in facilities like Richmond City Hall, community centres, arenas, libraries and cultural facilities.
Those with medical conditions or certain disabilities and children under the age of five will be exempt.
Also, those taking part in physical activity like swimming or a fitness class won’t be required to wear a mask during the activity.
Anyone not wearing a mask will be provided with one, but if they refuse to wear it, they will be barred from entering.
Fines and tickets, however, won’t be issued for non-compliance.
Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie said the intention is to educate the public on the mask requirement.
“Our hope is people will understand the importance of this step and recognize the positive impact it will have on their safety and the safety of others,” Brodie said.
Other city safety protocols include physical distancing, safety barriers and other procedures. Anyone with signs or symptoms of COVID-19 or who has returned from outside Canada in the previous 14 days is asked not to enter any city building.
Masks will also be required at the Minoru Centre for Active Living, fire-rescue facilities, Richmond Olympic Oval, Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site, Steveston Museum and Richmond Art Gallery and Museum.
