Protecting staff and residents: Town to implement vaccination certificate program

Tuesday, September 21, 2021

Updated September 23, 2021, 11 a.m.

In accordance with provincial requirements, the Town of Oakville is implementing a proof of vaccination program at town facilities. Starting September 22, the town’s program will require that anyone 12 years of age or older provide proof of identification and proof of full COVID-19 vaccination (or medical exemption) prior to entering or accessing any of the following:

The provincial regulation requires that access to recreation and culture facilities is limited to individuals who are fully vaccinated, with some exemptions. These regulations are a baseline requirement and organizations have the authority to go beyond these requirements to strengthen regulations in the interest of public and worker safety.

The town has taken steps to provide additional protection to the community and its employees by requiring anyone 12 years of age or older, including those aged 12-17, to be fully vaccinated to enter town recreation and culture facilities and Town Hall.

In alignment with several provincial sport organization’s vaccine policies and to support youth working towards full vaccination, the town will allow individuals between ages 12 and 17 (born 2004 and 2009) who are not fully vaccinated (14 days after last dose) and participating in organized sports to enter recreation and culture facilities up to October 31 if they show proof of vaccination of their first dose and/or second dose, along with valid identification. However, as of November 1, 2021 these individuals will need to provide proof of full vaccination to enter recreation and culture facilities, even to participate in organized sports. 

Individuals who do not show proof of full vaccination will not be permitted to enter or participate in indoor programming at impacted facilities unless they are under 12 years of age or have a medical exemption (the individual must show a doctor’s note and ID to gain entry). Appointments for marriage licenses and ceremonies that have already been pre-booked will also not require proof of full vaccination, however any new appointments for marriage licences and ceremonies will be required. Learn more on our Proof of Vaccination page.

Members of the public can print or download their vaccination receipt from the provincial booking portal or call the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900. 

Prior to entering a recreation and culture facility or other impacted town facilities, all visitors must complete a COVID-19 self-assessment and show proof of vaccination along with ID. Once indoors, all health and safety guidelines, and protocols must be followed including maintaining physical distancing and wearing a mask. Respectful behaviour is also expected towards all visitors, staff and volunteers in accordance with the town’s Rzone Procedure.

Residents are encouraged to access a variety of town services online. For inquiries, contact ServiceOakville at 905-845-6601 or service@oakville.ca.

“The alternative to these measures will be yet another lockdown as the fourth wave grows. The vast majority of Oakville has chosen to get vaccinated to prevent another lockdown. The town is not going to let the unvaccinated jeopardize the health and activity opportunities of the community.”

“We are 18 months into this global pandemic with a highly transmissible variant circulating in the community. This public health crisis requires extraordinary measures to keep our community safe. Implementing a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy will help protect the safety of our employees and members of our community who we serve.”