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.