Mayor Tory has signed a second Emergency Order on April 3 that can penalize offenders who do not practice physical distancing laws.
Today @johntory announced the fine for people failing to keep at least two metres of distance from others in City of Toronto parks and public spaces has been set at $1,000. Full video: https://t.co/CF7BrFCx3q pic.twitter.com/gqjgKOKlyf
— City of Toronto (@cityoftoronto) April 3, 2020
Any two (or more) persons who do not live together must maintain a minimum 2 meters distance between each other. This directive is applicable to public areas including parks and public squares. Failure to comply with this law can result in the offender being issued a ticket, with a maximum fine of $1,000. Law enforcement officers also have the power to issue higher tickets that have a maximum fine of $5,000, if the offender is convicted in a court of law.
The COVID-19 law Enforcement Team will ensure the following are observed by residents who are out and about in public areas:
- The physical distancing law (minimum 2 meters between each person)
- Ontario orders which ban organized social events and gatherings of more than 5 people
- The ban on all parks and related facilities and amenities
- The closure orders for all non-essential businesses
Offenders who violate the Emergency Orders will be fined (with fines ranging from $750 to $100,000) and can face up to one year in jail.
The Enforcement Team will respond to complaints regarding rule violations and will patrol parks and squares among other public areas, to ensure that public interaction in maintained to the bare minimum.
