Face Masks and Coverings
Accessible formats or communication supports are available upon request by contacting 1-866-668-3978.
While masking will no longer be mandatory on June 11, wearing a mask or face covering is still strongly recommended on public transit vehicles and in enclosed spaces, such as terminals. Masks will continue to be mandatory on Mobility On-Request services.
Wearing a mask on public transit is strongly recommended
After the June 11, 2022 provincial mask mandate is lifted, wearing a mask is still strongly recommended on all public transit services.
For Mobility On-Request travellers
Wearing a mask will continue to be mandatory due to the close proximity to the driver and other passengers. Visit our COVID-19: Mobility On-Request Updates page for more information.
Exceptions on wearing a face mask or covering
The following persons should not wear a face mask or covering:
- A child under two (2) years of age
- Any person compromised by wearing a face covering because of a medical condition
- Any person unable to place or remove a face covering without assistance
- Any person who requires accommodation under the Human Rights Code
How to properly wear a face mask or covering
Make sure your mask completely and comfortably covers your nose and mouth without gaping and allows for easy breathing. Make sure your mask is secured to your head with ties or ear loops without the need to adjust frequently.
Please read York Region’s guidelines on how to properly put on and remove a face mask.
For more information, visit York Region’s COVID-19 page.
Perform Hand Hygiene
Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Secure the elastic loops of the mask around your ears
If your mask has strings, tie them securely behind your head.
Cover your mouth and nose with the mask
Make sure there are no gaps between your face and the mask.
Do not touch the front of the mask while you wear it
Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if you accidentally touch your mask.
Make your own face mask or covering
A face covering is made from two layers of cloth, and covers a person’s nose and mouth. Health Canada has provided instructions on how to make non-medical masks with sew or no-sew options and has included the types of material you can use to make the non-medical masks, such as cotton, t-shirts or bandanas.
Visit Health Canada's website for instructions on how to make masks and face coverings.
Do not litter
Place disposable masks in a lined garbage bin. Over 900 waste units are located across the YRT system, including at YRT terminals, vivastations and at major bus stops. Cloth masks should be washed after each use.
DO discard masks that cannot be washed in a plastic-lined garbage bin after use.
DO store reusable masks in a clean paper bag until you wear it again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I still need to wear a mask? |
After the June 11, 2022 provincial mask mandate is lifted, wearing a mask is still strongly recommended on all public transit services to help keep everyone safe. Due to the close proximity to the driver and other passengers when in a Mobility On-Request (MOR) vehicle, masks will continue to be mandatory when using all MOR services. |
Should I still wear a mask when I’m at a bus terminal? |
Yes. It is strongly recommended to continue wearing a mask on public transit vehicles and in enclosed spaces, like terminals. |
Should I still wear a face mask or covering if no one else is on the bus? |
Yes. It is strongly recommended to wear a mask on all public transit services. |
Will drivers still be required to wear masks? |
Drivers are strongly encouraged to wear a mask when they are not behind the driver barrier on the bus. The driver barriers provide a physical barrier which permits physical distancing. This allows drivers to remove the face mask or covering when in the driver seat with the barrier closed. |
Will YRT Enforcement be enforcing the use of face masks and coverings? |
Travellers not wearing a mask will not receive a fine; however, YRT continues to strongly encourage wearing a mask to help keep everyone safe. |
Can I wear a face shield instead of a mask? |
We encourage travellers to wear a face mask or covering, if they are able. York Region Public Health recommends that if you choose to wear a face shield, to wear it in addition to a properly fitted mask, if possible. Respiratory droplets may escape around the sides of the face shield, which provides less protection to others. However, for customers who have difficulty wearing a face mask due to medical reasons, a face shield can be considered a practical solution. |