City of Cornwall by-law officers have been given the ability to enforce new rules under the Ontario Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act related to physical distancing.

By-law officers will work in collaboration with Cornwall Police Service officers to educate residents and businesses about the importance of public health and social/physical distancing.

On March 28, 2020 the Ontario government issued a new emergency order prohibiting organized public events and social gatherings of more than five people.

Further, health authorities are urging residents to maintain a distance of 2 metres/6 feet from each other.

Effective immediately, by-law officers will proactively monitor and respond to calls related to:

• Gatherings of five or more people in public areas
• People congregating in parks/using park facilities or equipment, including play structures, sports fields/courts/diamonds, benches, skateboard parks, and outdoor gyms
• Restaurants that continue to offer dine-in services
• Non-essential retail businesses continuing to operate

Complaints of individuals or businesses failing to comply with the emergency orders can be reported directly to the Cornwall Police Service by calling 613-932-2110. 

For additional information on COVID-19, please contact the following phone numbers:

• 1-888-444-3659: Stop the Spread Business Information Line
• 613-933-6282 ext. 3129: City of Cornwall Community Resource Helpline
• 1-800-267-7120: Eastern Ontario Health Unit