Ontario Returns to Modified Step Two
January 3, 2022
Today Premier Ford announced that the province is imposing a series of restrictions to combat the latest Covid-19 wave and the Omicron variant. These restrictions come into effect at 12:01 am on Wednesday, January 5, 2022 and will be in effect until at least January 26, 2022.
For the film and television industry, live studio audiences are no longer permitted. In addition, productions must continue to operate in accordance with the Section 21 health and safety guidelines. Businesses that are required to be closed are still able to be used as a location.
Also note that, unless the nature of the work requires employees to be on-site, all businesses (i.e., offices, etc.) are required to return to remote work.
A summary of the restrictions is posted here. The full regulation will be posted here once it is updated.
Finally, individual regions and/or municipalities have the authority to impose additional restrictions if warranted in their area. Please contact the film office in the area where you are shooting for complete details.
The provincial government has introduced a variety of business support measures for businesses affected by closures and restrictions. While not designed specifically for the film and television industry, you may be eligible for some of the measures outlined here.