We now know the businesses who will not have to shut down starting Tuesday night.
The province announced all non-essential or “at-risk” businesses need to close for two weeks starting 11:59 PM on Tuesday as a precaution against the spread of coronavirus.
Those deemed essential include those that sell food or pet food, pharmacies, telecommunications and IT infrastructure service providers, and businesses that support power generation, natural gas distribution and clean drinking water.
You will be able to shop at grocery stores, supermarkets, convenience stores, and markets. Gas station workers will still be heading to work on Wednesday, along with auto repair and auto supply shops.
Beer, wine and liquor stores and alcohol producers, along with the LCBO, Beer Store, and authorised cannabis stores and producers can stay open.
Restaurants offering take-out or delivery can continue operating. Hotels, motels, shared rental units and student residences will not have to close. You can still go to the laundromat, shipping and courier services, lawyers, and services like shelters and food banks.
Safety supply, office supply, and hardware stores are not shutting down. The list also includes many support and maintenance services like plumbers, electricians, janitors and cleaning services, security, fire safety and sprinkler systems, building systems maintenance and repair, and mechanics.
Taxis are allowed to keep operating, along with private transportation providers and transportation services like truck stops.
Manufacturers, many construction projects, and the agricultural sector are classified as essential. Financial services like banks, insurance providers, and the stock market will stay open.
Mining, petroleum, and forestry-related businesses are essential. Utilities, and businesses that support the provision of utilities and community services will keep working. Those include police, fire and emergency services, courts and corrections,
Businesses that have to close are encouraged to re-open if employees can work remotely.
