Effective July 13, 2020, 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, 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. Bylaw is effective July 13 - September 30, unless extended by Regional Council.

More information on wearing a mask or face covering, from Region of Waterloo Public Health

Reusable mask distribution

GRT is distributing free reusable masks. You can pick one up at:

  • GRT Customer Service Centre
    105 King St. E., Kitchener (corner of King and Benton)
  • Ainslie Street Terminal
    35 Ainslie St. S., Cambridge

View hours

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. I don’t have a mask. What can I do?

GRT will be distributing masks to customers. You can obtain a complimentary mask while supplies last. See the schedule below for where and when masks will be distributed.

5. 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.

6. How are you enforcing the policy?

Our focus is on education and information, not enforcement. Signage will be provided on mask requirements for customers. We will not refuse service to anyone because they are not wearing a mask. Remember that not all medical conditions are visible.