Town of Newmarket

COVID-19 Newmarket Updates

Contacts

Municipal Office

395 Mulock Drive P.O. Box 328 Station Main, Newmarket, Ontario
L3Y 4X7
905-895-5193

Email Us

June 23: Newmarket to hold virtual Public Meetings beginning June 29, 2020

In our ongoing efforts to continue business as usual during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to continue to advance building and planning applications, the Town will now also be hosting virtual Public Planning Meetings beginning on June 29, 2020.
 
This alternative form of meeting will allow members of the public to engage in proposed applications from their own homes. The purpose of these meetings is to allow the public to learn about development applications and provide their feedback. Normally, these applications are heard as part of a Committee of the Whole meeting, however, the meetings in June and July will be part of a Council meeting. Newmarket Council will not be making any final decisions at these meetings, and all written and verbal comments will be given to Planning staff to consider. A report will then be provided to Council at a future Committee of the Whole or Council Meeting.
 
The following Public Planning Meetings are scheduled to take place in June and July:

  • Monday, June 29 at 1 p.m. (note the time change as these meetings were previously held at 7 p.m.)

  • Monday, July 27 at 1 p.m. (note the time change as these meetings were previously held at 7 p.m.)

The below applications have been confirmed for consideration at the June 29 meeting:

Applications for consideration at the July 27 meeting have not yet been confirmed. Once this information is available, it can be found at newmarket.ca/planning and selecting 'current applications'.
 
All meetings will be live streamed and broadcasted at newmarket.ca/meetings. An archived video recording of the meeting will also be available online after the meeting.
 
Residents are encouraged to get involved in the Public Planning process by submitting written comments or participating in a live deputation through video conferencing during the meeting. To learn more about how to get involved, please email clerks@newmarket.ca and include your contact information (name and phone number).
 
Residents who would like more information on the topics being discussed at the virtual Public Planning Meetings can email planning@newmarket.ca or visit newmarket.ca/planning.
 
For a full list of upcoming meetings, including Committee of the Whole, Council, Workshops, Public Planning meetings and more, visit newmarket.ca/meetings.


More COVID-19 News and Notices

June 15: Newmarket takes a cautious approach to Stage 2 of the Province of Ontario's re-opening plan & Newmarket announces outdoor patio program to support the restaurant sector during COVID-19


With the Province of Ontario announcing that York Region is able to move into Stage 2 of the reopening plan, Newmarket continues to take a more cautious and gradual approach to ensure these areas are safe for use and that proper procedures are in place.  
 
“I am pleased that municipalities in York Region have been given the go head to move into stage 2 of the Province of Ontario’s reopening plan,” says Mayor John Taylor. “The Town will once again be taking a cautious approach to reopening more outdoor recreational amenities with the goal of ensuring the health and safety of our community. Please remember that in order to keep these amenities open, we as a community need to continue to be strong and vigilant in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19. This includes practicing physical distancing measures, adhering to social gathering emergency orders and washing your hands frequently.”
 
At this time the Town of Newmarket is focusing its efforts on reopening its outdoor recreational amenities only. The following are set to reopen by the noted date with restrictions. 
 
Spray Pads and Outdoor Water Features

  • Rogers Spray Pad (170 London Road) - Open by Friday, June 19 
  • Frank Stronach Spray Pad (850 Memorial Circle) - Open by Friday, June 19 
When using the spray pads, residents are reminded to stay at least 6ft. / 2m. from other people and follow social gathering sizes of 10 or less. Be courteous and share this space with the community. Limit your time and ensure others have a chance to use the amenity. If the spray pad is busy, and physical distancing is not possible, residents are asked to return at a later time.
 
The Town is working closely with York Region Public Health to reopen the Tim Hortons Skating and Water Feature at Riverwalk Commons (200 Doug Duncan Drive) as soon as possible. More information will be released when available.
 
The Gorman Outdoor Pool (424 D’arcy Street) will remain closed at this time. Current provincial guidelines around social gatherings and required physical distancing measures cannot be accommodated at this facility. 
 
Recreational Permits for Community Groups
Newmarket will not yet be issuing any permits for community groups or organized sports or league play at this time. Open outdoor recreational amenities such as sports fields, ball diamond and hard courts are for recreational use only. Sport organizations are welcome to uses these spaces recreationally, while complying with physical distancing and social gathering sizes (no more than 10 people) under provincial guidelines. Use of these amenities are available on a first come, first serve basis.
 
Please follow the rules posted at each location and remember to:
  • Stay at least 6ft. / 2m. away from people outside of your immediate household.
  • Follow the Province of Ontario’s emergency orders around social gatherings (no more than 10 people).

Residents are reminded to take extra caution and use these outdoor recreational amenities at your own risk. High touch-points at these outdoor areas (gates, benches etc.) are not cleaned frequently. Remember to wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based sanitizer after use. 
 
Expanded Outdoor Patio Program for Businesses
Newmarket has expanded its outdoor patio program to assist local businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. The flexible patio program was created to accommodate expansion and addition of outdoor patios for restaurants, bars and cafes, while maintaining physical distancing measures. Business owners looking to participate in the outdoor patio program are encouraged to contact the Town of Newmarket's Business Assistance Concierge. For more information on the expanded outdoor patio program, please view the press release. 

The Town will continue to monitor the changing COVID-19 landscape, seek guidance from the Province of Ontario and assess each reopening phase carefully with the health and safety of our community a top priority. Thank you for your patience as we work through each reopening phase.
 
For the most up-to-date information on what’s open and closed, visit newmarket.ca/reopen or follow us on social media @TownofNewmarket on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.


June 15: Newmarket announces outdoor patio program to support the restaurant sector during COVID-19

Today, the government of Ontario announced that York Region, along with the other communities in the Greater Golden Horseshoe, will be permitted to move to phase two of the province’s reopening framework, including the reopening of outdoor patios, on June 19. The Town of Newmarket will continue to be guided first and foremost by the health and safety of patrons, staff and the community, while working closely with the BIA, the Chamber of Commerce and local restaurants and retailers to move forward with an updated outdoor patio program.

“We are excited to be able to partner with the Chamber of Commerce and the downtown BIA to quickly roll out a flexible patio program that will be both safe and successful. We will continue with our cautious approach as we reopen our community, while recognizing the uphill battle our local business community is facing. We are committed to continuing to work with our local businesses every step of the way,” says Mayor John Taylor. “We are thinking outside the box and providing as much flexibility as possible to accommodate for the expansion and addition of outdoor patios for our restaurants, bars and cafes, while maintaining physical distancing.”

All businesses interested in an outdoor patio or display should contact the Town of Newmarket through the Business Assistance Concierge at newmarket.ca/bac. The Town will work directly with each business to try to accommodate their requests, while always ensuring appropriate physical distancing and health and safety measures are in place. This could include patios on sidewalks and in laneways where is it safe to do so. Under the provincial plan, patios in Newmarket could reopen as early as Friday, June 19.

Here are a few steps the town is taking to help restaurants respond and adapt to challenges created by COVID-19:
  • Patio licensing fees will be waived for 2020
  • The Town's current patio program guidelines and regulations have been updated to include more flexibility around hours of operation, encroachment on town lands and any other considerations necessary to accommodate temporary outdoor patios
  • Infrastructure, set up and tear down of pedestrian zones on Town property adjacent to interested businesses will be funded by the Town for the 2020 season.
The Province of Ontario has amended the Liquor Licence Act to make it easier for licensed bars and restaurants to temporarily add a patio or expand existing patios to accommodate physical distancing. These establishments must meet the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) criteria and have municipal approval.

The Town will continue to work very closely with the local business community to help find solutions to manage the impact of COVID-19. All local business owners are encouraged to contact the Town of Newmarket's Business Assistance Concierge where the team can provide one-on-one support to help navigate these unchartered waters, including connecting businesses with experienced mentors as part of the Town's Mentorship Access Program.

For more information on how the Town is supporting the local business community, visit newmarket.ca/covid19business

June 3: Newmarket will gradually re-open more outdoor recreational amenities to the public by the end of this week

The Town of Newmarket continues to take a gradual approach to re-opening its outdoor recreational amenities with caution. By June 5, the Town will add all sports fields and ball diamonds to its list of open outdoor recreation amenities which currently includes:

  • All trails and open spaces
    • Boardwalk along the Tom Taylor Trail (one-way traffic only)
  • All tennis courts
  • All pickleball courts
  • Newmarket Dog Park
  • Sports Fields (open by June 5)
    • Artificial Turf Field at Dr. Denison Secondary School will remain closed as this field is managed in partnership with York Region District School Board, who have closed all their amenities.
  • Ball Diamonds (open by June 5)
    • Whipper Watson Diamond and Fairgrounds Diamond will remain closed as these two diamonds are normally reserved for permit holders only. The Town is not issuing any permits at this time. 

For a full list of what's open and closed in Newmarket, please view the chart below.


Residents are reminded that open amenities are for recreational use only. The Town is currently not issuing any permits to use these amenities. Organized sports, league play or any type of game play is not allowed.


The Town is taking a more cautious approach to re-opening amenities to ensure these areas are safe for use, in addition to posting updated signage. Please follow the rules posted at each location and remember to:

  • Stay at least 6ft. / 2m. away from people outside of your immediate household
  • Follow the Province of Ontario's emergency orders around social gatherings (no more than 10 people). 

When using these outdoor recreation areas, please note that only required maintenance measures will be performed. Residents can expect to see services like grass cutting, forestry and horticulture work reduced. This is due to staff being redeployed to conduct other essential work and a reduced summer workforce. No additional summer staff, who normally assist in maintaining outdoor recreational amenities were hired this summer in order to responsibly align resources with the impacts of COVID-19. The Town is asking residents to be patient as staff are working hard to re-open and continue to maintain over 45 active parks and open spaces and 800+ acres of parkland in the community. 

 

Residents are reminded to take extra caution and use these outdoor recreational amenities at your own risk. High touch-points at these outdoor areas (gates, benches etc.) are not cleaned frequently. Remember to wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based sanitizer after use.  


The Town will continue to monitor the changing COVID-19 landscape, seek guidance from the Province of Ontario and assess each re-opening phase carefully with the health and safety of our community a top priority. Thank you for your patience as we work through each re-opening phase.

 

For the most up-to-date information on what's open and closed, visit newmarket.ca/reopen or follow us on social media @TownofNewmarket on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.


For more information on Newmarket news, related to COVID-19, visit newmarket.ca/COVID19


What's open and closed in the Town of Newmarket

Amenity* Anticipated Re-opening Date*
All trails and open spaces in Newmarket

Open

 

Activities such as having a picnic, playing catch, frisbee or kicking a soccer ball are allowed in open / green spaces as long as the following emergency orders are followed:

 

  • Practice safe physical distancing. Stay at least 6ft. / 2m away from people outside of their immediate household.
  • Adheres to the Province of Ontario's emergency orders around social gatherings (currently no more than five (5) people).

Boardwalk at the Tom Taylor TrailOpened as of May 22 to one-way traffic only. 

Entrance located at the south-end of the boardwalk near the Municipal Offices (395 Mulock Drive). 

Please adhere to the signage posted in the area. No passing is allowed on the boardwalk and cycling is not permitted. Learn more.

Global Pet Foods Dog Park presented by snapd (off-leash dog park) 

 

Opened as of May 22

 

Maximum Capacity

Large Area: 20

Small Area 10

 

Sports Fields**

 

Open by June 5  

 

Artificial Turf Field at Dr. Denison Secondary School will remain closed.

 

Recreational use only.

No game play allowed.

No organized sport or league play.

No permits will be issued.

 

Ball Diamonds**

 

Opened by June 5

 

Whipper Watson Diamond and Fairgrounds Diamond will remain closed.

 

No game play allowed.

Recreational use only.

No organized sport or league play.

No permits will be issued.

 

Tennis Courts

All open as of May 29

 

Singles Tennis Only.

Double permitted with players from the same household. 

 

Must adhered to social gathering rules set out by the Province of Ontario. Currently no more than five (5). 

 

Recreational use only.

No organized sport or league play.

No permits will be issued.

 

Pickleball Courts

Open as of May 29

 

Singles Play Only.

Doubles permitted if playing with members of the same household.

 

Must adhered to social gathering rules set out by the Province of Ontario. Currently no more than five (5).

 

Recreational use only.

No organized sport or league play.

No permits will be issued.

 

Basketball CourtsClosed until further notice
Municipal PlaygroundsClosed until further notice due to the Province of Ontario's Emergency Orders
Spray PadsClosed until further notice due to the Province of Ontario's Emergency Orders
Outdoor Water FeatureClosed until further notice due to the Province of Ontario's Emergency Orders
Public WashroomsClosed until further notice
Outdoor Fitness EquipmentClosed until further notice due to the Province of Ontario's Emergency Orders
All Town of Newmarket Buildings and FacilitiesClosed until further notice; Alternative services available. Learn more.
Newmarket Public LibraryClosed until further notice; Online services and curb side pick-up available as of June 6. Learn more at newmarketpl.ca


*Use is permitted as long as users practice safe physical distancing of at least 6ft. / 2m. away from others outside of their immediate household; dates may change due to weather and or unforeseen circumstances. 

**Some amenities remain closed

May 27: Town of Newmarket has cancelled summer camps & programs

The Town of Newmarket has cancelled its current offering of summer camps and programs based on the present state of COVID-19 and provincial direction limiting social gatherings. 

"I want to assure our residents that this decision has not been made lightly and has been guided first and foremost in the interest of community health and safety," says Mayor John Taylor. "Our programs as they are currently designed cannot be delivered safely and according to Provincial guidelines." 

"As a parent of a 10 and 12 year old I know just how important camps are to parents and to kids. I know this is a challenging time to keep our kids active, entertained and supervised," says Taylor. "Unfortunately, right now, the risk of operating a traditional camp program is still too high. We are exploring alternative options for camps for later in the summer but we will only pursue them if it can be done safely and provide meaningful help to our community."


Summer Camps

The Town's existing summer camp program is designed and structured in a way that cannot be delivered in line with current Provincial requirements for social distancing and gatherings. Based on this reality, the Town must cancel all camps and refund all fees paid. The Town is looking into the potential for a modified camp program which may be offered only if the Town is able to deliver it in a meaningful and safe manner. 


The Town will continue to work with the Ontario Camping Association and Parks & Recreation Ontario to gain insight into industry best practices and procedures being developed across Ontario.


Refunds
Everyone registered for a Town of Newmarket Summer Camp will receive a full refund. Registrants will receive an initial, automatic credit to their account. Residents are asked for their patience at this time as staff work quickly to process refunds, which may take up to eight weeks to complete. For those who paid by credit card, refunds will be processed to the card.  A cheque will be issued to those who paid with cash or debit.


Registered Summer Programs

All registered programs have also been cancelled. In line with summer camps, it is not possible for the Town to safely offer its planned registered programs, including swimming lessons, fitness and cultural programs.  


Resources

  • For the latest COVID-19 impacts to your town, visit newmarket.ca/covid19.

For what's open and closed, visit newmarket.ca/reopen

May 22: Newmarket begins to gradually reopen outdoor recreational amenities for public use, Newmarket Dog Park and some tennis courts reopened

On May 19, the Province of Ontario lifted its restrictions on some outdoor recreational amenities. As a result, the Town has begun to gradually reopen a number of outdoor recreational amenities for residents to use. As of May 22, the following are open:

  • Newmarket Dog Park (Global Pet Foods Dog Park presented by snapd)
  • Some tennis courts
    • Art Ferguson Park
    • Drew Doak Park
    • Charles Van Zant Park
    • Haskett Park
    • Keith Davis Tennis Centre 
    • Remaining tennis courts will be opened by May 29
  • Tom Taylor Trail Boardwalk (open to one-way traffic only) 

“I am pleased that we are able to reopen some outdoor recreational amenities for the community to use.” says Mayor John Taylor. “We are taking a cautious approach to reopening with the health and safety of our community as our number one priority. I want to thank our community for your continued commitment to following the public health guidelines, you have done an exceptional job. Please remember that the success of this reopening phase is dependent on your actions. We need to be strong, and extra vigilant. Stay at least 6ft. / 2m. away from people outside of your household, do not gather in groups larger than five and continue to wash your hands frequently.”
 
Residents are reminded that amenities open to the public are for recreational use only. Organized sports or league play is not permitted. Activities like having a picnic, playing catch, frisbee and kicking a soccer ball are allowed in open spaces as long as everyone follows public health guidelines:

  • Stays at least 6ft. / 2m. away from people outside of their immediate household
  • Adheres to the Province of Ontario’s emergency orders around social gatherings (currently, no more than five (5) people). 

Over the next two weeks, the Town will gradually reopen more recreational outdoor amenities. Staff will be performing necessary maintenance work to ensure these areas are safe for use, in addition to posting updated signage. Please adhere to the rules at each location. Newmarket’s by-law officers and education ambassadors will continue to patrol areas around Town with an education approach first.

The Town will continue to monitor the changing COVID-19 landscape, seek guidance from the Province of Ontario and assess each reopening phase carefully with the health and safety of our community a top priority. Thank you for your patience as the Town works through each reopening phase.

!As part of the Town's Economic Resiliency Action Plan, today, the Town of Newmarket will launch an innovative Mentorship Access Program (MAP). This program provides small and medium-sized businesses access to a directory of volunteer mentors available to provide strategic advice and guidance on how to adapt to these unprecedented times and map out a business plan, during and post COVID-19.

Local business owners interested in the mentorship program can contact the Town's Business Assistance Concierge (BAC), a virtual business support centre at 905-895-5193, ext. 2753 or visit newmarket.ca/BAC. As part of the services provided by the BAC, all participants will have the opportunity to work with an experienced mentor. The mentors include retired executives, members of the Newmarket Economic Development Advisory Committee and respected business leaders looking to give back.

A number of business leaders have volunteered to participate in the program as mentors, including (but not limited to);

  • Doug Wilson, Retired President and Chief Operating Officer, Sony Canada & Deputy President, Sony North America, Current: President at D. Wilson Consulting
  • Pat Horgan, Retired VP Operations and Innovation at IBM Canada, current Adjunct Professor at Western University
  • Donna Fevreau, Senior Account Manager, Construction Service and Real Estate for RBC and  Chair of the Newmarket Economic Development Advisory Committee
  • Beric Farmer, Co-founder of Xe and Vice-Chair of the Newmarket Economic Development Advisory Committee,
  • Bri-Ann Stuart, Managing Director, Asset Services at Cushman & Wakefield

For more information and to view the profiles of the existing mentors, visit newmarketbusinessmentorship.com.

BAC participants will be provided access to the list of mentors available. Mentees can connect with mentors based on what they feel is the best fit for their business model. They will work together to determine the guidelines and terms of their mentorship agreement. Participants can contact mentors for guidance and assistance with sales, marketing, financial planning, taking their business online/using digital platforms, social and digital media, accessing grant funding, recovering from COVID-19 and more.

The Town of Newmarket created the BAC in partnership with the Newmarket Chamber of Commerce (Chamber) to help local businesses on their journey back to business both during and after COVID-19. The Town has also partnered with the Chamber on a Shop Local gift card program. Community members who are looking to support their favourite local businesses can purchase gift cards at newmarketchamber.ca/gc to either use now or support a business that will reopen after physical distancing measures have been lifted.

For more information on how the Town of Newmarket is supporting local businesses through COVID-19, please visit newmarket.ca/covid19business

Quotes

"As the province slowly starts to reopen our economy, we want to ensure we continue to provide the support our business community needs every step of the way. Our local businesses have done an incredible job adapting to this changing landscape and coming up with creative new ways of doing business. The goal of this mentorship program is to continue to help guide our business community through this journey while they map out their short and long terms plans."

  • Newmarket Mayor John Taylor

"In a time when there is no playbook, the best things to have are great players beside you. The Newmarket Mentorship program is an inspired way to match businesses with executives who bring knowledge and experience of navigating through unchartered waters. I encourage every community to look at this innovative approach to supporting their business community."

  • Rocco Rossi, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce

"The impact of COVID-19 changed all of our lives overnight. Stay safe, stay home also meant that our local business owners had to quickly adapt to finding new ways to operate. Businesses had to imagine creative ways to produce and deliver products and services while ensuring the health and safety of their employees, their clients and themselves. By sharing our collective business experiences we, as a community, can provide small business owners with access to strategic advice and support they may need to manage through these unprecedented times.  Contributing as a business mentor is one small way I believe I can help to give back to the community I am proud to call home."

  • Donna Fevreau, Senior Account Manager, Construction Service and Real Estate for RBC and  Chair of the Newmarket Economic Development Advisory Committee

May 21: Town of Newmarket creates mentorship program to help businesses adapt during and after COVID-19

As part of the Town's Economic Resiliency Action Plan, today, the Town of Newmarket will launch an innovative Mentorship Access Program (MAP). This program provides small and medium-sized businesses access to a directory of volunteer mentors available to provide strategic advice and guidance on how to adapt to these unprecedented times and map out a business plan, during and post COVID-19.

Local business owners interested in the mentorship program can contact the Town's Business Assistance Concierge (BAC), a virtual business support centre at 905-895-5193, ext. 2753 or visit newmarket.ca/BAC. As part of the services provided by the BAC, all participants will have the opportunity to work with an experienced mentor. The mentors include retired executives, members of the Newmarket Economic Development Advisory Committee and respected business leaders looking to give back.

A number of business leaders have volunteered to participate in the program as mentors, including (but not limited to);

  • Doug Wilson, Retired President and Chief Operating Officer, Sony Canada & Deputy President, Sony North America, Current: President at D. Wilson Consulting
  • Pat Horgan, Retired VP Operations and Innovation at IBM Canada, current Adjunct Professor at Western University
  • Donna Fevreau, Senior Account Manager, Construction Service and Real Estate for RBC and  Chair of the Newmarket Economic Development Advisory Committee
  • Beric Farmer, Co-founder of Xe and Vice-Chair of the Newmarket Economic Development Advisory Committee,
  • Bri-Ann Stuart, Managing Director, Asset Services at Cushman & Wakefield

For more information and to view the profiles of the existing mentors, visit newmarketbusinessmentorship.com.

BAC participants will be provided access to the list of mentors available. Mentees can connect with mentors based on what they feel is the best fit for their business model. They will work together to determine the guidelines and terms of their mentorship agreement. Participants can contact mentors for guidance and assistance with sales, marketing, financial planning, taking their business online/using digital platforms, social and digital media, accessing grant funding, recovering from COVID-19 and more.

The Town of Newmarket created the BAC in partnership with the Newmarket Chamber of Commerce (Chamber) to help local businesses on their journey back to business both during and after COVID-19. The Town has also partnered with the Chamber on a Shop Local gift card program. Community members who are looking to support their favourite local businesses can purchase gift cards at newmarketchamber.ca/gc to either use now or support a business that will reopen after physical distancing measures have been lifted.

For more information on how the Town of Newmarket is supporting local businesses through COVID-19, please visit newmarket.ca/covid19business

Quotes

"As the province slowly starts to reopen our economy, we want to ensure we continue to provide the support our business community needs every step of the way. Our local businesses have done an incredible job adapting to this changing landscape and coming up with creative new ways of doing business. The goal of this mentorship program is to continue to help guide our business community through this journey while they map out their short and long terms plans."

  • Newmarket Mayor John Taylor

"In a time when there is no playbook, the best things to have are great players beside you. The Newmarket Mentorship program is an inspired way to match businesses with executives who bring knowledge and experience of navigating through unchartered waters. I encourage every community to look at this innovative approach to supporting their business community."

  • Rocco Rossi, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce

"The impact of COVID-19 changed all of our lives overnight. Stay safe, stay home also meant that our local business owners had to quickly adapt to finding new ways to operate. Businesses had to imagine creative ways to produce and deliver products and services while ensuring the health and safety of their employees, their clients and themselves. By sharing our collective business experiences we, as a community, can provide small business owners with access to strategic advice and support they may need to manage through these unprecedented times.  Contributing as a business mentor is one small way I believe I can help to give back to the community I am proud to call home."

  • Donna Fevreau, Senior Account Manager, Construction Service and Real Estate for RBC and  Chair of the Newmarket Economic Development Advisory Committee

May 15, 2020: Town of Newmarket responds to provincial announcement 

As the province begins to lift restrictions and enters into the first stage of the government’s reopening framework, Newmarket residents, community groups and businesses are looking for answers on what these announcements mean to them locally. Town leadership will swiftly analyze each announcement with a specific Newmarket lens to develop modified procedures and operations with the health and safety of its residents and staff top of mind.

 
“We’re entering a complex new way of operating our essential services, businesses, homes and family life,” says Mayor Taylor. “Opening services or facilities must be done in a manner which is safe for our residents and staff which is why each announcement will not be implemented instantly; we need to take the time to consider the right way forward for Newmarket and we hope our community will appreciate the challenges ahead and support us as we work together to rebuild.”
 
Physical distancing 
The number one consideration continues to be public health, through the guidance of experts at the region and province.  This long weekend, and as the town and province continue to reopen, residents are asked to keep the recommended 6 foot / 2 metre distance between themselves and anyone outside their immediate household.
 
Parks & Sports Areas 
Park amenities (playground equipment, basketball nets and outdoor fitness equipment, etc.), sport fields, diamonds and courts all remain closed. Once the province lifts these restrictions, the town will assess, address and communicate these changes.
 
Residents are still invited to enjoy the open space in parks, a measure the Town of Newmarket allowed earlier in order to give more space for residents to get fresh air and exercise while physically distancing.
 
Bylaw Officers and Education Ambassadors will be out this long weekend and ask residents to continue to keep their physical distance and to groups of five or less.

Camps & Summer Programs
The Town is currently exploring various options for summer programming and awaiting direction from the province regarding daycares and schools, anticipated next week. For now, the Town has paused Summer Camp registration and cancelled the Summer Program registration launch scheduled for Wednesday, May 20. The Town will provide an update by the end of May. In the meantime, residents are encouraged to sign up for the Recreation E-Newsletter for updates.
 
Newmarket Resources
  • Follow: @TownofNewmarket on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
  • For the latest COVID-19 impacts to your town, visit newmarket.ca/covid19.

May 9, 2020: Parking rules altered on Newmarket's Main street to accommodate curbside pick-up 

Effective today, the Town of Newmarket has temporarily amended the parking restrictions on Main Street by imposing a thirty (30) minute maximum parking limit to facilitate curbside pick-up or delivery. 

As the province begins to lift COVID-19 restrictions, retail stores with a street entrance can begin to provide curbside pick-up and delivery starting on Monday, May 11. 

“We’re fortunate to have such great shops and restaurants right here on our Historic Main Street,” says Mayor Taylor. “But today, they operate in a unique environment. The 30 minute parking limit will support their curbside business opportunity and help our downtown through a very difficult time. We’ll continue to do all we can to make it easier for our community to safely support its local businesses.”

The 30 minute maximum parking restriction applies to the east and west side of Main Street from Water Street to Davis Drive, where there was previously a two hour limit. 

Bylaw Officers will be enforcing these new parking restrictions to ensure spaces are available to both shoppers and businesses. Signs will be posted and Officers will be out educating residents about the change. Repeat offenders can face fines starting at $40.  

Residents who are not using curbside delivery are asked to use other downtown parking spaces, such as the lot around Market Square (P5-6) and east of Main Street around the Lion's Club (P3) and Riverwalk Commons (P1 & P7) shown in the below parking guide. 

The curbside parking restrictions are outlined in the first Emergency Order enacted by Newmarket's Mayor under authority delegated to him by Council to allow the Town to address situations in a timely manner. This authority was granted to the Mayor during the April 27 Special Council Meeting. In addition Council passed an Emergency Measures By-law giving the Town flexibility to temporarily amend and enforce by-laws to react to the evolving COVID-19 landscape. Read more in Council Highlights. 

The curbside parking restrictions are temporary and will be in effect as long as needed. 

Limiting and stopping the spread of COVID-19 in Newmarket continues to be the Town's top priority while also following the Province's lead to cautiously restart our economy. Residents are encouraged to shop locally while practicing physical distancing and following the safety steps put in place by retailers. Please refrain from making a pick-up and self-isolate if you have any potential COVID-19 symptoms (check Ontario's self-assessment tool). 

Newmarket's Economic Development Office continues to support the business community during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Learn more about business support here.   

For the latest COVID-19 impacts to your town, visit newmarket.ca/covid19. 

Click here for a copy of the official Emergency Order No. 1

Image of Historic Downtown Newmarket Parking Guide


May 6, 2020: Town of Newmarket COVID-19 updates for the spring and summer season 

With the state of emergency extended by the Province of Ontario, the Town of Newmarket continues to focus on essential work in an effort to protect the health and safety of our staff and community. Please make note of the following updates and reminders: 

General Inquiries

All general inquiries will be handled by Newmarket’s Customer Service Centre. They are available by telephone (905-895-5193) or email (info@newmarket.ca) from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday. For municipal emergency service outside these hours, please call 905-895-5193 and press 3 to be directed to our after-hours service number.

Facilities & Programs

Facility and Building Closures

All facilities and buildings in the Town of Newmarket remain closed until further notice. As such, Fitness Centre Memberships will continue to be on hold until facilities are re-opened. Members will not be charged during this time. 

Spring Programs 

All spring recreation and culture programs were cancelled. Individuals who registered for spring recreation programs should have now received a credit to their account. For more information, email recreation@newmarket.ca

Summer Camps & Programs

The Town will make a final decision on whether to operate its Camps and Summer Programs prior to May 20. If we are able to continue offering Summer Programs, registration will start on May 20 for residents and May 27 for non-residents.

The Summer Guide information is available online at newmarket.ca/activityguide.   

Summer events

In compliance with York Region Public Health’s current guidelines for physical distancing, the following Town events have been cancelled for 2020:

  • Tim Hortons Canada Day Kanata Festival and evening Fireworks
  • TD Newmarket Music Series
  • Kids Downtown
  • Newmarket National 10 Minute Play Festival
  • Newmarket Busker Festival
  • Splash of Culture
The following third-party organized events have also been cancelled:
  • York Region Pride Festival
  • Newmarket Lions Artisan’s Festival
  • Newmarket Craft Beer Festival
Visit the Town’s virtual recreation and culture hub - Home Sweet Home - for DIY decor, backyard games, recipes and fun activities to celebrate our nation’s birthday with your housemates while enjoying Ottawa’s first completely virtual Canada Day celebration. 

The Town will continue to monitor the evolving COVID-19 landscape, along with public health advice and explore a late Summer / early Fall event to reunite the community, if and when it is safe to do so. 

Spring Clean Up

Spring maintenance programs

The following spring maintenance programs have been temporarily suspended until further notice.
  • Textile Recycling Program
  • Curbside Giveaway Days
Street sweeping on bike lanes has been completed and limited sweeping is underway to address critical areas. 

The following spring maintenance programs will continue to be provided by the Town:
  • Critical road repairs including pot hole repairs
    • Residents can report potholes by using the ‘report a problem’ feature on the Recycle Coach App or to email info@newmarket.ca with the specific location of the pothole.
  • Garbage, green bin, blue box recycling and yard waste pick-up. 
  • Winter maintenance sod repairs (starting soon)

Littering hot spots

The Ministry of Environment is advising against community clean up which is why it’s more important now than ever to be mindful of your own waste. 

Here’s how you can help keep our community clean during COVID-19:
  • Scoop your pet’s poop when out for a walk. If there isn’t a garbage nearby, or it is full, please bring it home and place it in your green bin.
  • Having a snack on the trail? Bring a bag with you to take litter home with you to properly recycle or trash. 
  • Take all your items from the mailbox home to sort. Flyers too please!
  • Securely tie garbage bags and don’t overfill your blue box. Try placing heavier items on top to prevent materials from blowing away.
  • Always place used gloves and disposable masks in the garbage. 

Town staff continue to empty garbage cans at parks and are also picking up spring litter in parks and open spaces to help keep our Town clean while it isn’t advised for residents to conduct clean ups. 


Safely Enjoying the Outdoors

Trails, parks and open spaces

At this time, trails that fall within Newmarket’s geographical boundaries remain open as long as residents can continue to maintain physical distancing (stay 6ft. apart). Many of the Town’s trails connect to trails in different municipalities. When you are travelling along Newmarket’s trail system, you may encounter closure signs if the trail extends into a neighbouring municipality. Please obey closure signs to avoid fines.

Walkers, cyclists and joggers are reminded to practice safe physical distancing when using the public spaces. With the trails becoming busier due to the warmer weather, it’s important for the safety of all trail users to stay at least 6ft. away from each other.

Crossing bridges

The walkways on most Newmarket bridges are too tight to safely maintain a 6 foot distance from others. Consider bridge walkways one-way. When approaching a bridge residents should:
  1. Stop. Yield to other people crossing the bridge.
  2. Wait for an opening of at least 6ft. (1.8m) before proceeding to cross the bridge.
  3. Stay to the right side and do not stop on the bridge.

Bylaw enforcement approach

In alignment with the Town’s top priority, Bylaw Officers are focused solely on measures to protect our collective health and safety. With the warmer weather, Newmarket Bylaw Officers will continue to patrol our streets, parks and trails to educate and remind residents about the new and existing rules to ensure all residents can safely enjoy the outdoor space available. Officers will continue to take an education-first approach; however, fines will be issued when there is a need for public health and safety (e.g. if education is ignored). To date, the Town has only issued two fines under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act and three charges for dog off-leash, an existing bylaw that is extra important now in order to maintain physical distancing. Watch this video to learn more about how the dog-off leash bylaw relates to COVID-19 

Social gatherings

As it gets nicer and the pandemic rolls on, many are eager to get together. Residents are reminded that provincial emergency orders regarding social gatherings are still in place for the benefit of community health and safety.  The Town urges residents to stay vigilant and use virtual tools to connect with friends and family. The Town is receiving an increasing number of complaints about social gatherings at homes and for teenagers and small groups playing on sports fields. To report a social gathering, please call the Town at 905-895-5193 (press 3 after hours) or emailing info@newmarket.ca.

Garage & yard sales discouraged

Based on the current social gathering limits ordered by the province, the Town discourages hosting seasonal gatherings, such as garage and yard sales due to the health and safety risk to attendees and the community at large. 

Spring Wildlife

It’s currently wildlife mating season which means residents may see more wildlife from now through August -- a normal seasonal trend. For issues concerning wildlife, residents can call Animal Services at 1-877-979-PAWS.

Coyotes are also out more this time of year. Residents can visit newmarket.ca/coyotesighting to report a sighting and see where other residents are seeing them.  

Support for Residents & Businesses (recap)

Financial Relief Program

On April 27th, the Town announced Newmarket's Financial Relief Program to support residents and businesses by removing penalties and interest on property tax and water/wastewater, reducing rates, and more. Go to newmarket.ca/propertytaxes for complete program details and timing. 

Local Business Support

Newmarket’s Economic Development Office continues to support the business community during the COVID-19 Pandemic. The Business Assistance Concierge Program, a partnership with the Newmarket Chamber of Commerce, is a virtual business and support and recovery centre, providing assistance to local companies during COVID-19. Local businesses are assigned a dedicated case manager who will help them with immediate needs and will continue to provide business recovery support once the COVID-19 pandemic has ended. Businesses can:

Shop Local Newmarket 

The Town of Newmarket and the Chamber of Commerce have partnered on the Shop Local Newmarket initiative. Community members who are looking to support their favourite local businesses can purchase gift cards at Newmarketchamber.ca/gc to either use now or to support a business that will be re-opening after physical distancing measures are lifted. Businesses can participate in the program by emailing shoplocal@newmarket.ca  From spas, salons and stylists to pubs and cafes, wellness services to fitness and sports, there’s a special gift or personal treat for everyone!  

Check out whereworkmeetsplay.com for ideas on how to connect with mom and remind her that she’s special this Mother’s Day. 

Businesses that are interested in participating, can contact the Town of Newmarket at 905-895-5193 or email shoplocal@newmarket.ca.

Go-to Resources

The Town of Newmarket will continue to take direction from Federal and Provincial Governments and York Region Public Health to limit the spread of COVID-19 locally.  

For more information and updates, visit newmarket.ca/covid19 or follow us on social media @TownofNewmarket on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

For more information on COVID-19, visit York Region Public Health’s website at York.ca/covid19 or the Province of Ontario’s website at ontario.ca/coronavirus.

April 27, 2020: Newmarket Council approves Financial Relief Program to help residents and businesses in need

Newmarket has finalized a comprehensive Financial Relief Program to help residents and businesses in the community manage the financial challenges created as a result of COVID-19. This program is an extension of the preliminary measures that the Town of Newmarket put in place in March to waive penalties and interest on the March and April property tax payments. The Town wants to provide financial relief to those most affected by the global pandemic by expanding tax and water bill relief, including;

  • No penalty and interest charges on property tax payments until January 1, 2021
  • No penalty and interest charges for late payment of water/wastewater bills until January 1, 2021
  • Reducing water and wastewater rates by 4.69 per cent beginning May 1, 2020
  • Waiving all Non-Sufficient Fund (NSF) penalties until the end of June 2020
  • Deferring the stormwater charges to November 2020
  • No penalty and interest charges for all Town accounts receivable including development agreements, leases and sponsorships

The Town's Financial Relief Program ensures fairness and equity and is coordinated with the programs being offered by other levels of government. The total cost will be between $810,000 - $930,000. Residents and businesses that are able to continue to pay are strongly encouraged to do so. This will help the Town to continue to dedicate resources to those most financially challenged by COVID-19 and to continue providing essential services like fire and emergency, waste collection and safe drinking water.

For residents and businesses currently enrolled in the Pre-Authorized Payment (PAP) program, payments will continue to be withdrawn by the Town on the scheduled payment dates.  PAP participants that would like to withdraw from the program can do so by emailing taxes@newmarket.ca. Please note that residents and businesses that withdraw would need to reapply to the program in the future.

In addition to the Financial Relief Program the Town has a number of plans in place to support the community as a whole and particularly the most vulnerable in the community through a variety of programs and partnerships. The business community is also being strongly supported through the creation of theBusiness Assistance Concierge (BAC) program (a virtual business support and resiliency centre) and an overall Economic Resiliency Action Plan.

If you have any questions on the Financial Relief Program or the Town's response to COVID-19, please contact the Town of Newmarket at 905-895-5193.

April 24, 2020: Newmarket teams up with York Regional Police to patrol parks, trails and open spaces 

Newmarket Bylaw Officers are working together with York Regional Police to jointly patrol the community to help ensure residents feel safe. With 45 parks and open spaces, plus 800 acres of parkland, YRP and Newmarket Bylaw Officers are getting all-terrain wheels to help efficiently cover more ground. Starting this weekend, residents may see YRP on ATVs and Newmarket Bylaw Officers patrolling on golf carts. 

As a town, our number one priority right now is to slow and stop the spread of COVID-19, which is why our Bylaw Officers are focused solely on measures to protect our collective health and safety.

From physical distancing, to the provincially mandated closure of various public spaces, we know there have been many changes to how we live. That's why we've added more Bylaw Officers in the field to talk with residents who are out and about to explain the new and existing rules and why they matter so we can all do our part to flatten the curve.

Our Bylaw Officers are taking an education first approach. Fines are issued when there is a need to protect the public's health and safety (e.g. a persistent community issue; repeat offences; ignoring education).

During this time, we have united with our community partners, including neighbouring municipalities and York Regional Police. Our enforcement is based on the provincial direction and what's happening in other communities so we can apply the same standards across York Region, where possible.

Please remember to stay 6 feet from others when you're using public spaces and wave hello to our Bylaw Officers when you see them out this weekend.

April 22, 2020: Newmarket lights up in blue to thank front-line and essential workers during the COVID-19 pandemic

Newmarket’s Riverwalk Commons (200 Doug Duncan Drive) and the Fred A. Lundy Bridge (Water Street) will be lit blue nightly to support all front-line and essential workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. This will continue until the State of Emergency is lifted.


Lighting the Riverwalk Commons and the Fred A. Lundry Bridge blue is a way to show the Town's appreciation and thanks to all front-line and essential workers who are helping to keep our community, and other communities around the world healthy and safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

This initiative supports the Town’s #StandApartTogether campaign that aims to shine a light on Newmarket’s bright side and spread positivity during the unprecedented COVID-19 challenges Newmarket faces as a community.

Community members can participate online by:

  • Joining the #StandApartTogether – The Power of Community Facebook group.
  • Following the 30+ Community Positivity Ambassadors on social media and see how to help the community during COVID-19.
  • Sharing a feel-good story of the community during the COVID-19 pandemic using #StandApartTogether and tagging @TownofNewmarket. 

For more information on Newmarket’s Stand Apart Together campaign visit newmarket.ca/standaparttogether.

April 21, 2020: Newmarket takes creative and collaborative approach to help local businesses respond to COVID-19

This week, the Town of Newmarket and the Newmarket Chamber of Commerce will launch the Newmarket Business Assistance Concierge (BAC) program, a virtual business support and resiliency centre which will help small and medium-sized businesses in Newmarket on their journey ‘back to business’ during and post COVID-19. The BAC is part of the Town’s overall Economic Resiliency Action Plan to provide immediate and long-term support for the local business community and the economy.

“Newmarket has always been known for our strong sense of community and commitment to collaboration. These values are helping to drive the Business Assistance Concierge program as we come together with the Chamber of Commerce to continue to support our business community,” says Newmarket Mayor John Taylor. “I strongly encourage our entire community to come together like we always do by shopping local, purchasing gift cards to use at a later date, ordering take out or delivery wherever possible and showing our collective support in creative ways. We want our friends in our local business community to know that we are all in this together.”

“From the outset, the Chamber’s focus has been on ensuring Newmarket’s businesses have access to the resources they need to maintain continuity. The BAC builds on that momentum by ensuring there are no gaps to our outreach efforts" says Tracy Walter, President & CEO of the Newmarket Chamber of Commerce. “This is a positive step in ensuring that our business community will have the support they need to see it through to the end of this difficult period.”

The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on business operations continue to be a moving target with many local businesses having to close temporarily or significantly alter how they do business. Based on significant feedback from the local business community, the BAC program is a unique and creative approach to help small and medium-sized local businesses. Each business that participates will be assigned a personal concierge that will help them to understand what resources are available at the local, Regional, Provincial and Federal levels and help them to navigate and adapt to the consistently changing landscape created by COVID-19.

The concierge team is a combination of Town of Newmarket and Chamber of Commerce staff who have been redeployed from their regular positions, and trained on Municipal, Regional Provincial and Federal business support programs.

Led by the Town’s Economic Development department, the team will use their collective knowledge to support local businesses and share their stories with Newmarket Council and the Chamber of Commerce to continue to shape the Economic Resiliency Action Plan. Businesses who participate in the program will continue to be actively supported even after physical distancing measures are loosened.

Beginning Wednesday, April 21, all local businesses can access the BAC by visiting newmarket.ca/BAC and filling out a quick form. Members of the BAC team will also be reaching out to businesses to check-in, offer support and seek out opportunities to help. The BAC aligns with Newmarket’s #StandApartTogether campaign which is aimed at connecting the community and providing support to each other and local businesses.

“Since the emergence of COVID-19, our economic development team has been working closely with the Newmarket Chamber of Commerce, the business community and other key partners to develop a meaningful action plan to help our community get back to business, both now and in the future” says Newmarket Chief Administrative Officer Jag Sharma. “As we move forward, we are putting all the tools in place to support our business community as much as possible as we all come together to conquer COVID-19.”

Some of the other key pieces of the Newmarket Economic Resiliency Action Plan include:

  • Shop Local gift card program – The Town of Newmarket and the Chamber of Commerce have partnered on the Shop Local Newmarket initiative. Community members who are looking to support their favourite local businesses can purchase gift cards at newmarketchamber.ca/gc to either use now or to support a business that will be re-opening after physical distancing measures are lifted. Businesses that are interesting in participating, can contact the Town of Newmarket at 905-895-5193 or email shoplocal@newmarket.ca.

  • Collaborating with our neighbours – The Town is working closely with York Region and its neighbours in northern York Region on recovery plans and strategies to support all local businesses across each community and ensure access to appropriate resources at all levels of government.

  • Webinars and virtual meetings– The Town of Newmarket has worked with Rhapsody Strategies, an award-winning firm that specializes in coaching, training and consulting to host two webinars, one for the local Business Improvement Area (BIA) and one for the entire business community. The Town will continue to host webinars and virtual meetings that bring the business community together to offer advice and provide opportunities to share best practices for managing businesses through COVID-19. Weekly COVID-19 business newsletter

  • Local businesses can sign up to receive weekly updates from the Town at newmarket.ca/covid19business.

  • Tax relief program - Newmarket Council has waived all penalties and interest related to late payment of property taxes for the March and April instalments, for all businesses and residents. A more detailed tax relief program is currently being finalized.

For more information on how the Town of Newmarket is supporting local businesses through COVID-19, please visit newmarket.ca/covid19business.


April 9, 2020: Town urges residents to stay home this long weekend

Newmarket continues to enforce physical distancing and social gatherings with fines starting at $750

With the holiday weekend around the corner, the Town of Newmarket would like to remind residents to only celebrate Easter and Passover with those that live in your household, in an effort to help limit the spread of COVID-19. Newmarket has been identified by York Region Public Health as a community that has not yet reached its peak of COVID-19 cases. Please keep in touch with extended family and friends by calling or using video chats, but do not host holiday gatherings this weekend. The Town has increased bylaw enforcement and will continue to issue fines starting at $750 for people who do not comply with emergency orders.

Newmarket, along with many neighbouring communities, has moved from an education-based approach to stronger enforcement, including fines starting at $750. This includes increased bylaw officers throughout the community. Bylaw officers are active in our efforts to ensure compliance with the emergency orders. The bylaws department has and will continue to issue fines.

The Town will continue to strictly enforce the following emergency orders and issue fines for non-compliance:

  • Social gatherings of more than five people. Please note that families and households where more than five people reside are exempt from this provision.

    • For example, a family of six is permitted to take a walk together. Always practice physical distancing when outside and stay a minimum of 2 metres (6 feet) away from anyone that does not live in your household.

    • It is recommended that any group of people who do not live at the same address should not participate in any social gatherings. For example, three friends should not get together to go for a walk, have a dinner party, backyard campfire or any other social gathering.

  • Closure of playgrounds and park amenities. All playgrounds and park amenities throughout the Town of Newmarket (including tennis courts, basketball courts, pickleball courts, baseball diamonds, sports fields and the Newmarket Dog Park) are currently closed. Residents are not permitted to use these facilities under any circumstances and any use would be subject to a $750 fine.

  • At this time the trails and open spaces (including wide-open park areas) within Newmarket’s borders remain open for walking, jogging and bike riding. For example, a family residing in the same household can go for a walk or bike ride on the Tom Taylor Trail, but must practice safe physical distancing at all times [remain at least 2 metres (6 feet) from all other people]. Residents are permitted to walk their dogs in wide-open park areas and on the trails, but please remember dogs must be on-leash and physical distancing must be practiced at all times.

  • Closure of non-essential businesses and price gouging on necessary goods such as disinfectant products – To report non-essential businesses that remain open and/or price gouging, please contact the Town of Newmarket at 905-895-5193 for follow up by the bylaws department.

Report non-compliance

If you see inappropriate use at closed playgrounds and park amenities, please email info@newmarket.ca or call 905-895-5193 to report it. The Customer Service Centre is open Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Individuals who are charged with an offence under the EMCPA will be required to identify themselves if asked by a Municipal Bylaw Enforcement Officer. Failing to do so can carry a fine of $1,000 for obstructing a Municipal Bylaw Enforcement Officer.

In addition, failure to comply with an Emergency Order carries a starting fine of $750 or could also carry punishments of up to one-year imprisonment or a fine of up to $100,000 for an individual. These penalties will apply in addition to breaching other Emergency Orders.

For more information and updates, visit newmarket.ca/covid19 or follow us on social media @TownofNewmarket on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

For more information on COVID-19, visit York Region Public Health’s website at York.ca/covid19 or the Province of Ontario’s website at ontario.ca/coronavirus. 

April 3, 2020: Newmarket Municipal Bylaw Officers set to issue fines for social gatherings during COVID-19

On March 27, the Province of Ontario granted Municipal Bylaw Enforcement Officers the ability to issue fines under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) in an effort to limit the spread of COVID-19.
 
With the Province’s guidance, the Town of Newmarket will begin to issue fines to individuals who fail to comply with the following emergency orders:

  • Social gatherings of more than five (5) people
  • Trespassing outdoor recreational areas that are closed to the public (playgrounds, tennis courts, basketball courts, pickleball courts, baseball diamonds, sport fields, the Newmarket Dog Park etc.) 
  • Closure of non-essential businesses 
  • Price gouging on necessary goods such as disinfectant products

Newmarket’s Municipal Bylaw Enforcement Officers will be deployed in full force beginning this weekend to ensure the community complies with these emergency orders. 
 
Individuals who are charged with an offence under the EMCPA will be required to identify themselves if asked by a Municipal Bylaw Enforcement Officer. Failing to do so can carry a fine of $1,000 for obstructing a Municipal Bylaw Enforcement Officer.
 
In addition, failure to comply with an Emergency Order carries a starting fine of $750 or could also carry punishments of up to one-year imprisonment or a fine of up to $100,000 for an individual. These penalties will apply in addition to breaching other Emergency Orders.

Practice Physical and Social Distancing
Newmarket reminds residents to practice safe social and physical distancing. Stay home, save lives and help flatten the curve against COVID-19. Social and physical distancing means:
  • Limiting the number of people you come in close contact with (Province of Ontario prohibits gatherings of more than five people. This rule does not apply to private households of more than five people and other strict exceptions)
  • No physical gatherings, parties, going to the playground or playdates with other children, or meeting friends for a gathering.
  • Limiting your trips outdoors to essentials only (groceries, work etc.)
    • If you must go outside, practice safe social and physical distancing. Stay at least 6ft (1.8m apart) from other people. 

For more information on COVID-19, visit York Region Public Health’s website at York.ca/covid19 or the Province of Ontario’s website at ontario.ca/coronavirus. 

March 31: Newmarket cancels all Recreation and Culture programs, drop-in programs, rentals and events until further notice

With the Province of Ontario extending school closures, the Town of Newmarket has cancelled all recreation programs, drop-in programs, facility rentals and events until further notice. This includes Spring 2020 Recreation and Culture programs and registration.

Registered Recreation and Culture Programs

Town of Newmarket staff are working to provide automatic credits to all Spring 2020 Recreation and Culture registrants towards their account. This also applies to all family members and participants registered in a Town of Newmarket program or activity. Questions can be directed to registration@newmarket.ca.

Fitness Centre Membership

All Fitness Centre Memberships have been put on hold since March 13, 2020. Membership fees will not be charged during the duration of the closure of the Magna Centre (800 Mulock Drive). Questions about fitness memberships can be directed to fitness@newmarket.ca.

Town of Newmarket Community Events

All Town of Newmarket events have been cancelled until further notice. For more information visit newmarket.ca/events.

Facility and Building Closures

All Town of Newmarket buildings and facilities are closed until further notice. As the COVID-19 landscape continues to change, the Town will take direction from the Province of Ontario for the extension of closures and cancellations.

Practice Physical and Social Distancing

Newmarket reminds residents to practice safe social and physical distancing. Social and physical distancing means:

  • Limiting the number of people you come in close contact with (Province of Ontario prohibits gatherings of more than five people. This rule does not apply to private households of more than five people and other strict exceptions).

  • No physical gatherings, parties, going to the playground or playdates with other children.

  • Limiting your trips outdoors to essentials only (groceries, work, exercise etc.)

  • If you must go outside, practice safe social and physical distancing. Stay at least 6ft (1.8m apart) from other people. 

For more information and updates, visit newmarket.ca/covid19 or follow us on social media @TownofNewmarket on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

March 27, 2020: Town of Newmarket rallies community to Stand Apart Together during COVID-19 crisis
Today, amid these difficult times, the Town of Newmarket is launching the #StandApartTogether campaign to shine a light on Newmarket’s bright side and spread positivity during the unprecedented COVID-19 challenges we face as a community. Read more.   

March 27, 2020: Town of Newmarket essential services available to residents during COVID-19


With the Province of Ontario announcing the closure of all businesses in Ontario that are not essential, the Town has realigned its services to ensure our staff and residents remain safe and our critical services and infrastructure are maintained.

In an effort to maintain social distancing, staff members, where possible will continue to provide services online and by telephone, while working from home. Staff that work out of facilities and in the public will work in smaller teams and on shifts, while practicing safe social distancing.

Please see the list below for services that are still being offered by the Town of Newmarket at this time:

Customer Service Centre

Newmarket's Customer Service Centre will be available by telephone at 905-895-5193 or email from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily from Monday to Friday. For emergency service outside these hours, please call 905-895-5193 and press 3 to be directed to our after-hours service number.

Emergency Services

Utility Services (Water and Hydro)

Customer Service inquiries will continue to be handled by Newmarket Hydro. Please call 905-895-2309 for more information.

Library Services

  • Access to the online library 24/7
    • For assistance, Monday to Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. residents can:

For more information, visit newmarketpl.ca.

Local Business Support

Newmarket's Economic Development team will continue to support businesses during this difficult time. All business support activities will be conducted virtually. Business that require support can email ecdev@newmarket.ca for more information.

Parking and Bylaw Services

  • Parking Enforcement focused on health and safety-related issues
  • Bylaws and Emergency Property Standard Enforcement*
    • Investigating emergency orders and unsafe living conditions
    • Patrolling parks and playgrounds to educate residents on social distancing

Planning and Building Services

  • Electronic Planning Applications
  • Limited processing of Development and Committee of Adjustment Applications*
  • Pre-Consultation Meetings via Video Conferencing
  • Building Permits and Inspection*

Full details of adapted Planning and Building Services can be found online.

Public Works Services

  • Critical parks, open spaces and trails maintenance
  • Critical road maintenance
  • Waste and Recycling Pick-up*
  • Critical water and wastewater Services

*Some restrictions may apply. Please visit newmarket.ca/covid19 for more information.

Town staff will still be available on-call to deal with municipal emergencies like watermain breaks, road repairs, parking and bylaw enforcement and more during business hours and after-hours. 

Some staff members have also been redeployed to conduct other Town services. For example, our Recreation and Culture staff members at the Newmarket Seniors' Meeting Place (SMP) have been calling SMP members to check-in on them and allowing them to connect them with other members while social distancing.

Updates to the status of services available to the community, including cancellations and disruptions will be posted on our website at newmarket.ca/covid19 when available. Residents can also follow the Town of Newmarket on social media (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) for updates. 

For more information on COVID-19, visit york.ca/covid19 or ontario.ca/coronavirus

March 26, 2020: Town of Newmarket closes the Newmarket Dog Park and other park amenities to limit the spread of COVID-19

In an effort to limit the spread of COVID-19, the Town of Newmarket has closed the Global Pet Foods Dog Park sponsored by SNAPD (Bayview Parkway) and other park amenities such as basketball courts and tennis courts around Town. Newmarket will also be removing some picnic tables from parks to further encourage social distancing.

The Town's trails and parks are still open for use. The Town encourages residents to continue to remain active by taking walks, bike rides and spending time outdoors, while always practicing appropriate social distancing. Do your best to avoid close contact with people outside of your immediate family. Stay at least 6ft or 1.8m away from other people. Newmarket's Bylaw Officers are patrolling our parks and trails to educate and remind residents to practice safe social distancing.

Report social distancing non-compliance

To report residents who are not in compliance with social distancing at Newmarket's parks and trails, please call 905-895-5193. The Customer Service Centre is open Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can also email info@newmarket.ca

For more information on other Town services during COVID-19, visit our Frequently Asked Questions for details. For more information on Town of Newmarket COVID-19 related news, visit newmarket.ca/covid19.

For more information on COVID-19 visit york.ca/covid19.

March 23, 2020: Town of Newmarket COVID-19 waste collection update and reminders

The Town of Newmarket would like to provide residents with a waste collection update and reminder.

Garbage Bag Limits and waste tips

With everyone social distancing and spending the majority of their time at home, the Town will be taking a more lenient approach with garbage bag limits. Beginning this week, the Town will collect up to five (5) bags of garbage per household, every two weeks on the regularly scheduled collection day. We all have to do our part in response to COVID-19, the Town is asking for all residents’ cooperation in sticking to the existing bag limits (3) where possible and not producing additional bags and unnecessary waste. Please be mindful of the garbage produced and dispose of these items properly. Not all items go in the garbage. Continue to use the green bin and recycling bin as necessary.

Reminders:

  • Medical masks and gloves belong in the garbage. Please DO NOT place these items in the recycling bin.
  • Disinfectant wipes and baby wipes belong in the garbage and paper towels belong in the green bin. DO NOT flush these items in the toilet as this will cause sewer blockages which may lead to sewer back-ups. Sewer blockages are the responsibility of the homeowner.
  • Please hold off on disposing large items until regular garbage collection resumes. If there is a need, residents can take the large item to a York Region Waste Depot (fees apply) or purchase a large item tag by calling the Town at 905-895-5193. A large item tag will be sent to residents through the mail.
  • Help protect our GFL collection crews by ensuring your garbage bags are tied properly and that no loose material is placed into garbage containers.

Residents who aren’t sure what goes where, can visit newmarket.ca/wasteandrecycling to use the Recycle Coach online application. 

Textile Recycling Program Temporarily Suspended

Newmarket’s textile recycling program outside of Town facilities will temporarily be suspended until further notice. Diabetes Canada will be placing signage on all textile recycling bins located outside of the Magna Centre, Ray Twinney Recreation Centre and the Newmarket Community Centre and Lions Hall. They will also be monitoring the bins periodically to ensure the area around the bins are maintained.  For more information visit newmarket.ca/textilerecycling.

Tips to protect yourself against COVID-19

Practice social distancing and stay home if possible. Please wash your hands frequently with soap and water (for at least 20 seconds) or use an alcohol-based sanitizer if soap and water are not available. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, or cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow.

For more information on COVID-19 visit york.ca/covid19.

Customer Service Centre

The Town will continue to provide services to all residents where possible online by emailing info@newmarket.ca or by calling 905-895-5193. The Customer Service Centre is open Monday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
 
For more information on other Town services during COVID-19, visit our Frequently Asked Questions webpage for details. For more information on Town of Newmarket COVID-19 related news, visit newmarket.ca/covid19.


March 20, 2020: Newmarket closes all playgrounds in an effort to limit the spread of COVID-19

In an effort to limit the spread of COVID-19, all playgrounds and outdoor parks with fitness equipment within the Town of Newmarket will be closed until further notice.

Signage indicating this closure will be posted at all playgrounds and parks. The public is reminded to please refrain from using playground and/or fitness equipment to help break the chain of transmission of COVID-19. Larger playgrounds will be fenced off from the public. 

The Town’s trails and parks are still open for use. The Town encourages residents to continue to remain active by taking walks, bike rides and spending time outdoors, while always practicing appropriate social distancing.

When using park amenities (park benches, picnic tables etc.), please also remember to practice social distancing. Do your best to avoid close contact with people outside of your immediate family. Stay at least 6ft or 1.8m away from other people.

As a reminder, please wash your hands frequently with soap and water (for at least 20 seconds) or use an alcohol-based sanitizer if soap and water are not available. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, or cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow. 

For more information on Town of Newmarket COVID-19 related news, visit newmarket.ca/covid19. For more information on COVID-19 visit york.ca/covid19. 

March 18, 2020: Newmarket declares a state of emergency
At the March 18 Emergency Council Meeting, Mayor John Taylor declared a State of Emergency in response to COVID-19 in the Town of Newmarket.

“This is an unprecedented time that most of us have never experienced in our lifetime. Declaring a state of an emergency is not to incite panic, but to incite action and allow the Town to dedicate more resources and be in a better position to respond to COVID-19.” says Mayor John Taylor. “It is time for us as a community to do our part to help flatten the curve and stabilize the spread of COVID-19. We need to listen to our Public Health Officials and seriously practice social distancing in order to limit the spread of COVID-19 to save lives.” 

Following the Declaration of a state of emergency, the Town will also be activating its Emergency Operations Centre on Thursday, March 19, 2020 in response to COVID-19. 

In addition to declaring a State of Emergency, the following decision points were also made at the Emergency Council Meeting:

Property tax penalty fees and interest waived 

The Town is looking for ways to help provide financial relief from property taxes to residents. For the time being, the Town of Newmarket is going to waive all late payment fees and interests on all property tax accounts. Late payments for the March 26 and April 28 property due dates will not be subject to any late payment fees or interests. The Town will come back in 30-60 days with more options and details on a property tax deferral plan. 

Support for Community Groups 

Newmarket Council approved up to $25,000 in support of community meal programs, enhanced community food bank operations or to be used for other community needs. Newmarket is also working with these community groups on contingency planning to ensure they are able to  meet the needs of the community during COVID-19. 

Cancellation of all Town of Newmarket Council and Committee of the Whole Meetings

All upcoming Council Meetings, including Committee of the Whole, Public Planning Meetings and Advisory Committee and Board Meetings are cancelled until further notice. 

Noise By-law exemption to allow for 24-hour service delivery

Newmarket Council reviewed its Noise By-law and it currently meets the requirement to allow all service or delivery trucks, who are providing essential services to continue with their business outside of current daytime hours. This will ensure all essential services and stores will be stocked for our community. 

For more information related to COVID-19, check back on this webpage. For more information on what Declaring a State of Emergency means, visit this webpage. 

March 17, 2020: Newmarket Council to hold COVID-19-related Emergency Council meeting

Town of Newmarket Council will meet on Wednesday, March 18, 2020 for a Special Council Meeting at 2 p.m. and an Emergency Council Meeting at 3 p.m. The Emergency Council Meeting will deal with Council matters related to the changing COVID-19 landscape.

The draft agenda for this meeting is available at newmarket.ca/meetings. As the Municipal Offices are now closed to the public, residents may watch the meeting live online at newmarket.ca/meetings. Please note that the video link will be available 15 minutes before the meeting is expected to start.

Residents who wish to submit comments, which will form part of the public record, may write to the Town Clerk at clerks@newmarket.ca

"As we all know this is a challenging time for all as we deal with the impact of COVID-19. I want to let all residents of Newmarket know that the Town is continuing to look for ways to support our community during these trying times." says Mayor John Taylor. "At this Emergency Council Meeting, Council will be making decisions on property tax deferral, financial support for community groups like the Newmarket Food Pantry and how we can continue to provide essential services to our community, while we continue to follow the Federal Government and the Province of Ontario's direction around social distancing."

As the COVID-19 landscape continues to change, the Town will keep all residents and community updated through:

For more information, please call 905-895-5193 or check back on our website.

March 16, 2020: Town of Newmarket closes Municipal Offices, Operations Centre and Central York Fire Service Offices to the public in response to COVID-19 (coronavirus)

Following the closure of all Town of Newmarket Recreation and Culture facilities, the Town of Newmarket will be closing its Municipal Offices (395 Mulock Drive), Robert N. Shelton Operations Centre (1275 Maple Hill Court) and all Central York Fire Service Offices to the public as of 5 p.m. Monday, March 16. This closure will be in effect until further notice. The Town will continue, where possible, to provide services to residents by email or by phone 905-895-5193. 

These measures have been taken in support of the Province of Ontario's direction to facilitate social distancing to protect staff and residents from the spread of COVID-19. 

Other essential services provided by the Town that will continue to operate include, but are not limited to water and wastewater services, waste and recycling pick-up, general maintenance of Town-maintained roads, sidewalks and trails, customer service call centres, Central York Fire Services (emergency services) and more. 

Full list of building and facility closures: 

  • Municipal Offices (395 Mulock Drive)
  • Robert N. Shelton Operations Centre (1275 Maple Hill Court) 
  • All Central York Fire Station Offices 
  • Ray Twinney Recreation Complex (100 Eagle Street West)
  • Magna Centre (800 Mulock Drive)
  • NewRoads Performing Arts Centre / Newmarket Theatre (505 Pickering Crescent)
  • Newmarket Seniors' Meeting Place (474 Davis Drive) 
  • Newmarket Youth Centre & Sk8 Park (56 Charles Street) 
  • Hollingsworth Arena (35 Patterson Street) 
  • Old Town Hall (460 Botsford Street) 
  • Elman W. Campbell Museum (134 Main Street South) 
  • Newmarket's Community Centre and Lions Hall (200 Doug Duncan Drive) 
  • Newmarket Public Library (438 Park Avenue)

The Town will notify the public of future cancellations, openings and updates through:

COVID-19 Resources:

March 15, 2020: Mayor John Taylor tested negative for COVID-19
Mayor John Taylor is pleased to share with everyone that he has tested negative for COVID-19. The Mayor has been fully cleared by York Region Public Health and is not required to self-isolate anymore. Read the Mayor's full statement here.

March 13, 2020: Town of Newmarket responds to COVID-19 (coronavirus) with facility closures and program cancellations

With an abundance of caution, the Town of Newmarket will be closing all recreation and culture facilities and cancelling its programs, drop-in activities and March Break camps. The cancellation is effective Friday, March 13, 2020 at midnight through to Sunday, April 5. Facilities and programming will resume on Monday, April 6, pending further developments.

Town Cancellations & Closures 

The following Recreation and Culture facilities and programs will be cancelled: 

  • Ray Twinney Recreation Complex (100 Eagle Street West) 
  • Magna Centre (800 Mulock Drive) 
  • NewRoads Performing Arts Centre / Newmarket Theatre (505 Pickering Crescent) 
  • Newmarket Seniors’ Meeting Place (474 Davis Drive) 
  • Newmarket Youth Centre & Sk8 Park (56 Charles Street) 
  • Hollingsworth Arena (35 Patterson Street) 
  • Old Town Hall (460 Botsford Street) 
  • Elman W. Campbell Museum (134 Main Street South)
  • Newmarket’s Community Centre and Lions Hall (200 Doug Duncan Drive) 
  • Newmarket Public Library (438 Park Ave) 

Those enrolled in the March Break camps and registered programs will receive a credit. This cancellation also impacts outside organizations with bookings at Town facilities. The Town is in the process of notifying organizations directly. 

Town offices in operation 

At this time, services at the Municipal Offices (395 Mulock Drive), the Robert N. Shelton Operations Centre (1275 Maple Hill Court) and Central York Fire Services will stay open to ensure essential services continue to be delivered. This includes, but is not limited to, water and wastewater services, waste and recycling pick-up, general maintenance of Town-maintained roads, sidewalks and trails, customer service centre and more. 

 For future cancellations, openings and updates, the Town will notify the public through: 

For more information on the closures and cancellations, check back on this webpage. All inquiries related to COVID-19 should be directed to York Region Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653, Monday to Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

For more information on COVID-19, visit York Region Public Health’s website at York.ca/covid19 or the Province of Ontario’s website at ontario.ca/coronavirus.

March 13, 2020: Mayor John Taylor tested for COVID-19
Mayor John Taylor is currently being tested for COVID-19. The Mayor was experiencing shortness of breath, nausea and fatigue. As a result, York Region Public Health decided, based on their screening process that he should be tested for COVID-19. 

Mayor Taylor is currently in self-isolation and awaiting for this test result. He is expected to receive his results in the next 72 hours. 

Read the Mayor's full statement here. 
March 6, 2020: Seniors' Meeting Place COVID-19 Information Session
York Region Public Health held a COVID-19 information session at the Newmarket Seniors' Meeting Place to help answer inquiries on COVID-19 on March 6, 2020. 

 March 3, 2020: Potential COVID-19 Exposure at Newmarket's Seniors' Meeting Place  

The Town of Newmarket has been notified by York Region Public Health that patrons of the Newmarket Seniors' Meeting Place (474 Davis Drive) may have been exposed to COVID-19.

The Newmarket resident in her 70s, who tested positive for COVID-19 on February 29 at Southlake Regional Health Centre after returning from Egypt, visited the Seniors' Meeting Place on February 22 and 24. The resident is currently in self-isolation at home.

Those who have come into close contact with the individual at the Newmarket Seniors' Meeting Place have been identified by York Region's Medical Officer of Health and are being asked to self-isolate. York Region Public Health is conducting a risk assessment and contact follow-up.

All those who have been in the Newmarket Seniors' Meeting Place but not in close contact are considered to be at low risk. The Medical Officer of Health has indicated that there is no need to reduce or cancel programming at this time.

The risk of York Region and Newmarket residents of COVID-19 continues to remain low and there is no evidence of community spread within York Region.

The Town is working closely with York Region Health to collaborate with local hospitals, emergency services and other health agencies to ensure prompt reporting and follow up of all individuals who may require testing for COVID-19.

March 1, 2020: York Region reports one new positive case of COVID-19 in Newmarket
Excerpt taken from York Region's Media Release:
The third new positive case is a female in her 70s from the Town of Newmarket and a contact of the recently reported positive Egypt travel-related Toronto case. She was in Egypt with the known Toronto case. She was tested and assessed at Southlake Regional Health Centre on Saturday, February 29. Since testing, she has been in self-isolation.

Read the full media release at york.ca/covid19