News Release
August 9, 2021

Today, the City of Toronto begins the safe and gradual reopening of City buildings to visitors with a phased reopening of select in-person counter services at City Hall and civic centres, in alignment with the provincial reopening plan and in accordance with public health guidelines.

City Hall, East York Civic Centre, Etobicoke Civic Centre, North York Civic Centre, Scarborough Civic Centre and York Civic Centre are now open for a limited number of in-person counter services. While counter services are not open at Metro Hall at this time, the Metro Hall Early Learning & Child Care Centre and Employment & Social Services offices will continue to be open to the public.

City buildings and most counter services have been closed to the public since March 14, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During the closure, the City modernized and improved the customer experience, making many of its counter services available online. The City will continue to deliver digital services, which have proven to be convenient for many Torontonians, but will now also reopen its doors to residents and visitors for select in-person services, ensuring choice, accessibility and equity for residents.

Some in-person services, such as marriage licences and zoning inquiries for the Toronto and East York district, will require booking an appointment, while other services will operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Details about counter services are available here.

The health and safety of residents, businesses and City staff remain key priorities in all reopening plans. Restrictions and capacity limits, in accordance with provincial and public health guidelines will be in place, including mandatory masks, physical distancing, protective barriers and increased sanitization and cleaning protocols.

The latest information about City services is available on the COVID-19: Changes to City Services webpage.

Quote:

“We are excited to open our doors and welcome visitors back into our buildings today. The health and safety of Torontonians will continue to be our top priority and public health guidance will continue to guide and direct all of our reopening plans. Through a slow and phased reopening, with all the necessary protocols in place, we can ensure the safety of our community, while working to restart our economy. Thank you to everyone for doing your part to get us to where we are today. Welcome back Toronto.”

– Mayor John Tory

Toronto is home to more than 2.9 million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture and innovation, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents and businesses. For more information visit the City’s website or follow us on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.

Media Relations