As businesses gradually reopen, Vaughan bylaw officers to up their monitoring

Bylaw enforcement services has addressed more than 4,100 COVID-19-related case files

Yorkregion.com
May 15, 2020
Dina Al-Shibeeb

As Vaughan’s businesses gradually reopen, its enforcement officers “will increase monitoring in these areas for parking infractions -- especially blocking fire routes -- as well as violations of physical distancing requirements,” the city said Tuesday, May 12.

This is all to “ensure public safety,” the city added.

Ontario extended its emergency declaration on May 12, giving the province more time to contain COVID-19 while gradually reopening businesses, services and amenities safely. Premier Doug Ford began easing restrictions on certain retailers May 1, provided they “comply with strict public health measures.” Retail businesses with a street entrance are now permitted to reopen for curbside pickup and delivery only.

In York Region, Vaughan has been hardest hit with COVID-19, seeing 779 cases as of May 12.

So far, the city told York Region Media that it has responded to 164 complaints and conducted 426 proactive patrols across Vaughan as of May 2.

“Bylaw Enforcement Services addressed 347 violations pertaining to people using outdoor park amenities, 79 violations pertaining to social distancing/social gatherings and 39 other COVID-related infractions,” it added.

“Since the city declared a state of emergency on March 17, Bylaw Enforcement Services have addressed over 4,100 COVID-related case files.”

ONLINE DIRECTORY LAUNCHED

The City of Vaughan has also launched “Open for Business” -- an online directory, listing local businesses that are open during the current state of emergency.

The list, which is available at vaughan.ca/COVID19, is updated regularly.

“The voluntary listing includes both essential services and businesses that are open or providing modified operations by phone, online, takeout or delivery in compliance with provincial and municipal regulations,” the city said. “Vaughan businesses interested in being included in the list must apply and can do so through this online form.”

Vaughan has also granted a grace period of 90 days for business licence renewals.

“Licensees may defer renewal of their existing business licence up to 90 days past the expiry date of their licence,” it said.

New businesses, meanwhile, are still required to be licensed. New licence applications may be submitted by email to bylaw@vaughan.ca, along with scanned copies of required documentation. Payments can be made by cheque and mailed to Vaughan City Hall at 2141 Major Mackenzie Dr. Vaughan, ON, L6A 1T1.