Mandatory masking in place, social gatherings banned in latest restrictions

Jason Kenney has announced new restrictions to help combat the increasing number of COVID-19 cases sweeping the province.

New expanded mandatory measures came into effect Dec. 8 for social gatherings and mandatory masking. All others come into effect at 12:01 a.m., Dec. 13.

“Alberta has sought to protect both lives and livelihoods from the beginning of the pandemic,” said Premier Jason Kenney. “The recent surge in COVID-19 hospitalizations will threaten our healthcare system and the lives of many vulnerable Albertans unless further action is taken now. With the promise of a vaccine early in 2021, we can see the end of this terrible time. But all Albertans must take this more seriously than ever by staying home whenever possible, and following these new measures.”

Social gatherings – immediate

•All indoor and outdoor social gatherings – public and private – are prohibited.

•Close contacts are limited to household members only.

•Individuals who live alone will be allowed up to two close contacts for in-person visiting, with those two people remaining the same for the duration of the restriction period.

•Festivals, parades, events, concerts, exhibitions, competitions, sport and performance remain prohibited.

Masking – immediate

•The mandatory indoor public masking requirement will be extended provincewide.

•Public spaces include locations where a business or entity operates and is applicable to employees, visitors and the general public. Applies to all indoor workplaces and facilities outside the home.

•Farm operations are excluded.

•Rental accommodations used solely for the purposes of a private residence are excluded.

Places of worship – starting at 12:01 a.m., Dec. 13

•All places of worship will be limited to 15 per cent of fire code occupancy for in-person attendance.

•Virtual or online services are strongly encouraged.

•Drive-in services where individuals do not leave their vehicles and adhere to guidance will be permissible and are not subject to capacity restrictions.

•Mandatory mask mandate, physical distancing and other guidelines remain in place.

Retail – starting at 12:01 a.m., Dec. 13

•Retail services must reduce customer capacity to 15 per cent of fire code occupancy, with a minimum of five customers permitted.

•Curbside pickup, delivery and online services are encouraged.

•Shopping malls will be limited to 15 per cent of fire code occupancy.

Closures – starting at 12:01 a.m., Dec. 13

•Restaurants, pubs, bars, lounges and cafes will be closed to in-person service.

•Only takeout, curbside pickup and delivery services are permitted.

•Casinos, bingo halls, gaming entertainment centres, racing entertainment centres, horse tracks, raceways, bowling alleys, pool halls, legions, and private clubs will be closed.