COVID-19 information

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COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus) 

In response to the highly contagious Omicron variant, the Province announced that we are temporarily moving into Step Two of its Roadmap to Reopen with modifications that take into account the province’s successful vaccination efforts effective Wednesday, January 5, 2022 at 12:01 a.m. for at least 21 days (until January 26, 2022), subject to trends in public health and health system indicators.

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) and local municipalities may also implement local public health directions, bylaws, and policies which can exceed the provincial laws and recommendations.

COVID19 vaccination 

Book vaccine appointment through the provincial portal.

For adult and/or pediatric first, second, third or booster doses use the online COVID-19 vaccination portal Ontario.ca/bookvaccine or call the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900 for appointments at the following locations: 

  • Health unit community clinics (NOTE: Walk-ins MAY BE available based on daily clinic capacity, and ONLY for priority groups at this time. Please read the walk-in criteria carefully.)
Updated Class Orders and Letters of Instruction 

The following Section 22 orders (under the Health Protection and Promotion Act) and instructions (under the Reopening Ontario Act) have been issued in response to COVID-19 by SMDHU’s Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Charles Gardner:

Class Orders under Section 22

Letters of Instruction
Updated - Class Order for self-isolation revised November 23, 2021

A class order under Section 22 of the Health Protection and Promotion Act has been issued by Simcoe Muskoka’s Medical Officer of Health (MOH) to enforce COVID-19 self-isolation requirements. The order originally took effect October 6, 2020, was revised on March 8, 2021, May 27, 2021, September 21, 2021 and November 23, 2021 and remains in effect until the MOH declares it is no longer needed.

The order applies to any person living or present in the County of Simcoe and District of Muskoka, as follows: 

  • Individuals with symptoms of COVID-19, regardless of whether they are fully vaccinated and/or if they get tested. 
  • Individuals who test positive for COVID-19. 
  • Individuals in recent close contact with someone who has symptoms of COVID-19 or who tested positive for COVID-19. This includes caregivers and household members.
  • Household members of individuals in recent close contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19.

If you think you have any symptoms of COVID-19, use the provincial COVID self-assessment tool, and if indicated by the tool, get tested and self-isolate at home for 10 days (the period of time you are contagious) or until your test result is negative for COVID-19.

A person who ignores the class order to self-isolate can be charged and fined up to $5,000 per day. The Heath Protection and Promotion Act also allows the Medical Officer of Health to go to court and seek additional orders to protect the health of the community.

For more information see Fact Sheet for Class Order for Self-Isolation (revised November 23, 2021).
 Stop the spread

  • As the highly transmissible Omicron variant takes hold in Ontario, the province has announced  a temporary move to a modified Step Two of the Roadmap to Reopen. This move is intended to help blunt the current surge of transmission and prevent hospitals from becoming overwhelmed during the province’s accelerated booster dose rollout. Under Step 2, additional provincial measures include reduced social gathering limits to 5 people indoors and 10 people outdoors, increased restrictions for certain businesses such as bars, restaurants and indoor recreational sports and fitness activities, enhanced work from home guidelines, and reduced capacity by 50 per cent for retail. See the province’s January 3, 2022, news release for more details

    Along with the current restrictions, following all regular public health measures is important to limit the spread of COVID-19 in Ontario. These measures include:
    • getting vaccinated (especially booster doses)
    • staying home when sick if you have any symptoms of COVID-19 
    • self-isolating if you’ve been advised of exposure to COVID-19 by a person who has tested positive or has symptoms, by the health unit or the COVID Alert mobile app.
    • wearing a face mask
    • physical distancing
    • avoiding crowds
    • downloading the COVID Alert mobile app
    • limiting your contacts outside of your household members
    • being in a well-ventilated space 
    • handwashing
    • covering your sneeze or cough. 

    NEW: Each public health measure acts as a layer of protection against COVID-19, with the strongest protection coming from getting vaccinated. As you combine each of these layers of protection, the safer you will be against the virus. Check out the Health Unit's Swiss cheese model graphic that shows how this works (adapted with permission from the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics). 
 Support Local. Make It New Tec!

As New Tecumseth’s business community continues to reopen and resume operations, residents and workers are encouraged to safely support local and “Make It New Tec” the next time they’re shopping, dining, or unwinding.

Support Local. Make It New Tec!

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Vaccination requirements for entrance to Town facilities & rec centres

Please note that as we are in the Province's Step Two of its Roadmap to Reopen with modifications until at least January 26, 2022, all Town of New Tecumseth facilities, buildings and recreation centres are currently closed to public walk-ins until at least January 26, 2022.

Once recreation centres are able to reopen to the public, we will resume vaccination requirements for attendees as set out by the province, Ontarians will need to be fully vaccinated (two doses plus 14 days) and provide proof of vaccination along with photo ID, such a driver’s license or health card,  to access some public settings and facilities. This will include the Town’s facilities and recreation centres. 

Individuals who cannot receive the vaccine due to medical exemptions will be permitted with a doctor’s note until the medical exemption can be integrated as part of the province’s digital vaccine certificate. 

Any parent or guardian accompanying a child under the age of 12, must meet vaccination requirements to attend. 

The Town continues to be committed to ensuring the health and safety of participants, visitors, and staff at our facilities.

Youths aged 12-17 who choose to participate directly in a sport activity in any Town of New Tecumseth owned facility or recreation centres must be fully vaccinated and provide proof of such. 

We will have staff at the entrance of our facilities and recreation centres checking to ensure any patrons entering, meet the Provincial vaccination requirement to do so. 

These proof of vaccination requirements will NOT apply to outdoor settings where the risk of transmission is considered lower, including such spaces as our fields, parks, and diamonds. 

Updated:  Impacts to Town services including Parks, Recreation & Culture 

As the Province moves into Step Two of its Roadmap to Reopen with modifications effective Wednesday, January 5, 2022 at 12:01 a.m. for at least 21 days (until January 26, 2022), subject to trends in public health and health system indicators.

As such, effective Wednesday, January 5, 2022 at 12:01 a.m., the following will be implemented by the Town of New Tecumseth:

-        The Museum on the Boyne will be closed.

-        All New Tecumseth public library branches will be limited to 50 per cent capacity.

-        All Town of New Tecumseth recreation centres will be closed to the public.

-        The fitness centres at both the New Tecumseth Recreation Centre and the Tottenham Community & Fitness Centre will be closed. 

-        Any permits issued for indoor events/meeting space will be cancelled.

-        All registered programming and drop in activities will be cancelled.

-        Weather permitting, we will continue to offer public skating at the outdoor rink in Tottenham, with reduced capacity on a first come, first serve basis.

-        All outdoor playgrounds, fields, trails etc. will remain open for safe use.

-        The Town Administration Centre and Joint Operations Centre will be closed for public walk-ins, however, only necessary appointments with staff may be arranged in advance.

The Town of New Tecumseth will continue to support the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit and the vaccination clinics being held at the Alliston Memorial Arena. Further information on the vaccination clinics can be found on the SMDHU’s website.

Outdoor spaces: 

The Town’s open spaces, trails, and walking paths remain available for individual physical activity use. Residents are encouraged to get out and enjoy the weather and fresh air, however, all COVID-19 health protocols must be followed.  
Wearing a face mask in all indoor public spaces

A mask should be a well-fitted medical mask or a high-quality 3-layer cloth mask that fits properly, covering your nose, mouth and chin with no gaps to ensure that it effectively filters the air. 
You should wear a face mask when you:

  • are in a private residence and cannot physically distance from those outside of your household
  • are at home and are sick or taking care of someone who is sick
  • enter into any indoor space such as a restaurant, store and even a workplace that is not open to the public
  • enter common areas of apartment buildings, condominium buildings, and student residences
  • use public transit (e.g. bus, taxis or ride share) 
  • are outdoors and unable to physically distance from those outside of your household.

Updated: gatherings, events and celebrations 

Social gatherings are limited to 5 people indoors and 10 people outdoors. It is important to remember that knowing someone does not reduce the risk of transmitting COVID-19 therefore, virtual gatherings or events are still the safest way to gather or celebrate. 

If you choose to host or attend an in-person gathering or event, take precautions to reduce the risk of COVID-19.

Physical distancing and wearing a face mask when indoors with people who are not part of your household continues to be the safest way to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Remember, indoor gatherings are limited to 5 people and to 10 people outdoors. In addition we recommend that:

  • Individuals who are NOT fully vaccinated against COVID-19 keep gatherings to only those within their household, unless physical distancing is practiced and/or face masks are worn.
  • Individuals who ARE fully vaccinated are advised to keep gatherings to a small number of people outside of their household. For the protection of all, preferably everyone should be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

If you are hosting a gathering:

  • Keep guests to under 5 for indoor gatherings and 10 for outdoor gatherings. 
  • Ask guests to NOT attend if they have symptoms, even if they are mild.
  • Make a list of guests attending in case public health needs it for contact tracing.
  • Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces.
  • Provide all the necessary supplies for your guests, including hand sanitizer, soap and water.
  • Open windows, if possible.
  • If you are serving food and drinks, wash your hands often while preparing and serving food and suggest all those gathered do so before and after eating.

If you are invited to a gathering:

  • Stay home if you are ill, even if your symptoms are mild.
  • If you are immunocompromised or at higher risk of severe disease and/or exposure to COVID-19, consider joining virtually or not attending the event.

If you are attending a gathering:

  • Wash your hands often.
  • Cover any cough or sneeze.
  • Consider wearing a face mask if physical distancing is not possible.

Overnight guests:

  • Ensure hand sanitizer, soap and water are available, and wash your hands often.
  • Individuals from multiple households who are unvaccinated, partially vaccinated or status is unknown should practice physical distancing (2 metres at all times) and wear face masks.
  • Hosts and guests from multiple households who are unvaccinated, partially vaccinated or status is unknown should not sleep in the same bedroom and should use separate washrooms, if possible. 
  • Avoid singing or shouting, especially indoors.
  • Monitor for COVID-19 symptoms (hosts and guest).
  • Have a plan for what to do if someone becomes ill, even with mild symptoms.

Outdoor gatherings or events:

Organizers:

  • Encourage participants to be vaccinated.
  • Where possible, provide handwashing stations and/or alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing 60-90% alcohol content. Encourage participants to frequently wash hands with soap and water if possible and bring alcohol-based hand sanitizer to the event.  

- Post signage to reinforce these messages. Sample signage can be found here.

  • Consider hosting a drive-in or drive-thru event.

If attending an outdoor event:

Attending an organized outdoor event is likely safer than an indoor event but the risk of COVID-19 spread is still there. If you choose to participate in outdoor events continue to follow these public health measures:

  • Stay home if you are ill, even if your symptoms are mild. If you have COVID-19 symptoms get tested and self-isolate.
  • Download the COVID Alert mobile app.
  • Avoid crowds and maintain physical distancing of at least 2 metres (6 feet) from anyone outside your household.
  • Wear a face mask when physical distancing cannot be maintained.
  • Sneeze and cough into your upper sleeve or elbow, avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. 
  • Consider alternatives (e.g. signs, banners) to shouting or chanting to avoid spreading droplets.
Financial Supports and Resources for Businesses

The Town’s Economic Development Office is gathering important information and resources to assist local businesses and their employees in responding to the economic impacts of COVID-19.

Visit the Support for Businesses page and use the "Subscribe" feature to receive automatic email notifications about the most up to date resources for your business and employees.
Financial Supports for Individuals and Families

The Government of Canada's COVID-19 Economic Response Plan includes a wide range of measures to support for Canadian individuals and families who are facing financial hardship as a result of the pandemic.

Ontario's Action Plan: Protect, Support, Recover is the next phase of the Province's response to the serious health and economic impacts of COVID-19. The plan sets out a total of $45 billion in support over three years to make available the necessary health resources to continue protecting people, deliver critical programs and tax measures to support individuals, families and job creators impacted by the virus, and lay the groundwork for long-term economic recovery.

The Town’s Economic Development Office is gathering important information and resources to assist the local workforce and employers in response to the economic impacts of COVID-19.
Building Inspections
    • At this time building inspections will be completed by our Building Inspectors.
    • Most standard construction inspections can be carried out, including
      • Exterior inspections of all buildings, and
      • Interior inspections of unoccupied buildings that are under construction
    • Interior inspections of occupied dwellings will be conducted with extra provisions for the safety of both staff and occupants.

    PROCEDURE

    • Upon arrival to the property, the inspector shall advise the representative of these procedures and obtain their verbal agreement to comply.
    • The building must be vacant at time of inspection except that one representative of the permit holder/owner may accompany the inspector while maintaining acceptable social distancing.
    • The inspector will evaluate the inspection environment to determine the suitability to maintain a safe workplace and shall mitigate any assessed risk by use of personal protective equipment.
    • Social distancing requiring 6 ft separation shall be practiced at all times by the inspector and the representative.
    • Where 6 ft social distancing is not possible, or as determined by the inspector, both the inspector and the representative shall wear well-fitting, non-surgical masks that completely covers from the nose to the chin.
Building Permit Applications
  • The Building Branch will be only accepting building permit applications through digital means.  Drawings shall be submitted digitally and be in a pdf format.  The drawings shall be scaled and legible.  Pictures of drawings will not be accepted.  Building staff will circulate digital applications to the required internal departments (Planning, Engineering, Fire, Finance) for their approvals and/or comments.
    • Email communication will be the preferred method of communication.
 Building Permit payment & Compliance Letters

Until further notice, payment for building permit fees, development charges and compliance letters will be Visa & Mastercard (max $750) this can be taken over the phone or cheque (payable to the Town of New Tecumseth) and deposited to the Town Hall drop box. No in person payments.  
Drinking water 

Drinking water continues to be safe for consumption & meets all provincial requirements. Safety precautions & measures are in place to protect staff and public to ensure Water services continue. There may be some disruption to non-essential services. Critical servicing will be maintained.
Wastewater

Safety precautions and measures are in place to protect staff and public to ensure Wastewater services continue. There may be some disruption to non-essential services. Critical servicing will be maintained.

Please do not to flush or dispose of cleaning wipes/cloths through sanitary services (toilets, etc.) The Town will not be responding to sanitary blockages as a result of the disposal of such cleaning products. Should cleaning products be found to be the cause of a sanitary blockage, property owners will be responsible for all cost.
Property Tax, Water & Wastewater and Accounts Receivable

If you wish to re-enroll in the pre-authorized payment plan program, your property tax or utility account must be paid in full and you will need to complete the Property Tax/Utility Bill Pre-Authorized Payment Plan Form found here.

 Payment methods include:

  • Payments can be made at your bank or through online/telephone banking

  • Third party credit card providers, such as Plastiq

  • Registration in the Town's pre-authorized payment plan

  • By cheque, mailed or placed in the drop boxes at:

  • Town Administrative office located at 10 Wellington Street East in Alliston.

  • Tottenham Recreational Centre located at 139 Queen Street North 

  • Joint Operations Centre located at 6558 8th Line in Beeton

To Access billing information:
Who do I contact to report violations to the Province's Emergency Management & Civil Protection Act?

Everyone is encouraged to voluntarily comply with the restrictions introduced by the federal and provincial governments to combat the spread of COVID-19.

For all non-emergency police matters, including non-compliance to the Province’s Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) please call your local police or the OPP non-emergency line at 1-888-310-1122. For less serious incidents, report online by visiting the OPP reporting site.  If you wish to file a report regarding non-compliance under the Quarantine Act, contact Public Health Agency of Canada. Our Municipal Law Enforcement officers will continue to be out in our community reminding you of the importance of complying with these restrictions. 
Case summary information 
For case summary information, please visit the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit's COVID-19 information/statistics. 
 What you need to know

For the most up-to-date local information, visit the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit website. 
How can I get in touch with the Town?

You can continue to do business with the Town on our website or by phone at 705-435-3900 or 905-729-0057 (Monday through Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm) or email our customer service at info@newtecumseth.ca.

For recreation related questions, please call our Parks, Recreation and Culture team at 705-435-4030 or 905-936-4203 or by emailing our recreation team.  

For detailed information about your Property Tax and Water/Wastewater accounts, access our Virtual Town Hall service portal 24/7. 

For Property Tax and Water/Wastewater payment methods and additional information, please see the FAQ’s on our website:

Property Taxes  

Water and Wastewater  

Other inquiries can be addressed by contacting the Finance department by phone or email:

Property Taxes

-        Phone: (705) 435-3900

-        Email for property tax inquiries 

Water and Wastewater

-        Phone: (705) 435-3900 

-        Email for utilities inquiries 

For any other general finance-related inquiries, please email the Finance Department
Stevenson Memorial Hospital 

Information from Stevenson Memorial Hospital's website: 

Assessment Centre hours and location
The Stevenson Memorial Hospital Assessment Centre is located in the lower parking lot (Shipping & Receiving entrance) of the hospital:

200 Fletcher Crescent, Alliston, ON

How do I find out my results?
You can find your COVID-19 test results by visiting the province’s website. 
County of Simcoe

You may visit the Simcoe County website and view their public notices page to see a list of any services they provide that have been affected by COVID-19. 
Where to find support 

We understand that this is a difficult time for many as the world around us is changing due to COVID-19. Whether you are looking for support or know someone who is, below is a list of services available.

Offering support by telephone (2-1-1), email or live chat from the 211 Ontario  website. Please call or email if you are unable to access needed supplies or services.

  • 211 Ontario can help you find grocery stores and pharmacies that are open and offering delivery service, as well as programs and services in your community that may be helpful to you during these trying times.
  • 211 exists to connect people to urgent needs and essential services.
  • 211 is multilingual and operates 24/7.

Mental health support

It is normal that situations like COVID-19 can affect your mental health and it’s completely OK to ask for help. Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations. How you respond to the outbreak can depend on your background, the things that make you different from other people, and the community you live in. If you need support, access the following services. 

Children and youth 

 Adults   
 Additional information sources
Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit 

Public Health Agency of Canada

Risk level for Canadians, Current situation, Travel advisories

Ontario Ministry of Health
Ontario news, Status of cases in Ontario – updated at 10:30 a.m. daily

World Health Organization
Technical documents, Questions and answers