Come September 22nd you will have to show proof of vaccination in order to get into places like restaurants and gyms.

Premier Doug Ford made the announcement yesterday after months of rejecting the idea of a vaccine passport system.

Here is what it means for you:

The first step of the plan goes into effect on September 22. That’s when Ontarians will be required to show a piece of photo ID and their printed or downloaded vaccine receipt that be accessed on the Ontario.ca portal before gaining entrance to certain public settings and facilities. (full list below)

A month later, on October 22nd, the second phase of the plan goes into effect. That’s when Ontarians will have to show government-issued certificates that will “include a unique QR code” that can be scanned on phones. The document can also be printed out on paper.

The province says it is also launching a new app that businesses and facilities can use to scan and validate the QR codes. While retail is not included, the app will be made available to any business that wants to implement their own proof of vaccination program.

Medical exemptions will show up on the QR code.

“Let me be clear, this is a temporary tool that we won’t use for a day longer than we have to,” Ford promised.

Individuals or businesses that don’t follow the rules could face a series of fines under the Reopening Ontario Act up to $730 for individuals and $1000 and up for businesses.

Ford said enforcement would be led by bylaw officers and would be reasonable.

Ontarians will need to provide proof of being fully vaccinated, starting Sept. 22, to access the following: (not including those with medical exemptions and children under 12)

Restaurants and bars (excluding outdoor patios, as well as delivery and takeout)
Nightclubs (including outdoor areas of the establishment)
Meeting and event spaces, such as banquet halls and conference/convention centres
Facilities used for sports and fitness activities and personal fitness training, such as gyms, fitness and recreational facilities with the exception of youth recreational sport
Sporting events
Casinos, bingo halls and gaming establishments
Concerts, music festivals, theatres and cinemas
Strip clubs, bathhouses and sex clubs
Racing venues (e.g. horse racing)

At no time will anyone be prevented from accessing necessary medical care, food from grocery store, basic medical supplies or other essentials based on vaccination status. This includes voting in the upcoming federal election, barbers and salons are also not included.

The province says it will establish processes in the coming weeks for individuals with no email or health card ID.

With files from 680 News