Masks or face coverings are mandatory on GRT. That includes:
- GRT buses
- ION trains
- MobilityPLUS vehicles
- BusPLUS
- Kiwanis Transit
- Inside bus shelters
- On station platforms
- Inside GRT customer service locations
Exceptions
There are exceptions for:
- Children under 5 years of age;
- Persons with an underlying medical condition which inhibits the ability to wear a mask or face covering;
- Persons who are unable to place or remove a mask or face covering without assistance;
- GRT employees within any areas designated for GRT staff and not for public access, where appropriate distancing can be maintained, or behind a physical barrier or shield.
Customers who do not have a mask or face covering will be permitted to board GRT vehicles. Not all medical or other conditions are visible.
Region of Waterloo Code of Use By-Law 13-050. By-law is effective until May 31, 2021, unless extended by Regional Council.
View the Region of Waterloo face covering bylaw
More information on wearing a mask or face covering, from Region of Waterloo Public Health
Frequently asked questions
1. Why are you making masks mandatory?
The COVID-19 pandemic is ongoing. As the economy reopens and ridership increases, it will not always be possible to maintain physical distancing of 2 metres in stations and on buses and trains. Wearing a mask or face covering can decrease the transmission of COVID-19 when physical distancing is not possible
2. I have a medical condition that means I can’t wear a mask. Do I have to wear one?
No, anyone with a medical condition that prohibits wearing a mask is exempt. You will be permitted to board GRT vehicles without a mask.
3. Why isn’t the operator wearing a mask while driving?
Operators do not have to wear a mask while behind a barrier or inside the operator cab. Operators must wear a face covering on transit when they are not behind a barrier.
4. Do I need to wear a mask while waiting at a bus stop?
Masks are not required while standing outside at a bus stop. However, please maintain a physical distance of 2 metres from others.
Masks are required if you are waiting inside a bus shelter at a stop.