Today Premier Ford announced a provincewide lockdown will begin on December 26. The lockdown will be in place for at least 28 days in Southern Ontario, which includes Grey County.

What does this mean for businesses?

Many businesses sectors will not be permitted to operate during the pandemic, and others will be need to modify. The follow outlines some of the restrictions to business during the 'Grey' lockdown details of the Provincial COVID-19 Framework.

Retail stores (aside from essential retail, such as grocery stores and pharmacies) will be closed for in-store shopping. Curbside pickup and delivery may continue.

Restaurants and bars will be closed for dining. Take out can continue.

Sports and recreational fitness facilities will be closed. This includes outdoor recreation, such as ski hills and skating rinks.

Personal care services will be closed.

Hotels and Motels are permitted to operate except for pools, fitness centres, meeting rooms and other recreational facilities.

Household services, such as housekeeping, cooks, nanny services and babysitters, may continue.

Real estate agencies are permitted to operate with showings by appointment only.

Short-term rentals (not including hotels) are not permitted. No new reservations except for individuals who are in need of housing.

The above is only a summary of some of the sector restrictions. For a more complete breakdown, download the Provincewide Shutdown document.

Businesses are also required to have COVID Workplace Safety Plans in place. Learn More

New Ontario Small Business Support Grant

Today Premier Ford announced the New Ontario Small Business Support Grant. In his announcement, he noted small businesses required to close or restrict services during the shutdown will be eligible for a one-time grant of $10,000 to $20,000 in support.

Eligible small businesses include those that:
Are required to close or significantly restrict services subject to the Provincewide Shutdown effective 12:01 a.m. on December 26, 2020;
Have less than 100 employees at the enterprise level; and
Have experienced a minimum of 20 per cent revenue decline in April 2020 compared to April 2019.
More information about the Ontario Small Business Support Grant is available here. Further details, including how to apply, will be announced in January 2021.

If you're looking for information or advice for about operating your business during COVID-19, give the Grey County Business Support Line a call. One of our staff will be happy to assess your situation and help you to understand regulations or connect with the right services for your needs.

Calls will be answered Monday-Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. or you can also email questions to [email protected] anytime.

Please note our office will be closed from December 24 at 12:00 p.m. to January 4 at 8:30 a.m. Call: 519-372-0219 ext.1270 Email: [email protected]

source: media release, Grey County