COVID-19 Vaccination Verification
Starting September 22, 2021, each person who enters an indoor facility for meetings or events must show proof of vaccination and identification at the time of entry, which will be verified by the event organizer or designate. The only exceptions permitted for meeting and event spaces include:
- Children under 12 years of age
- Individuals with a medical exemption and supporting documentation from a physician/nurse
- Individuals using the washroom or passing through an indoor space to access outdoor space
- Retail or admission/membership purchases (without the intent to stay)
For more information, visit www.hamilton.ca/ProofOfVaccination
Have a question? Check our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need proof of vaccination to go on a tour in the museum?
You do not need to show proof of vaccination to access the gift shop, washroom facilities, retail or admission purchases and guided tours. Proof of vaccination is only required to enter indoor meeting and event spaces.
What can I expect for vaccine verification when I visit a City Museum event or meeting space?
Each person who enters an indoor facility for meetings or events must show proof of vaccination and identification at the time of entry, which will be verified by the event organizer or designate. Verification is required for any individual who is not an employee working in or operating the facility.
When arriving at a meeting or event space, signage will indicate the main entrance. Vaccine verification is required when entering a meeting or event space, followed by contact and health screening. Please plan and adjust arrival times accordingly as you may experience wait times before entering. Thank you in advance for your patience and understanding.
Will my vaccination records or personal health information be kept or recorded?
No. Any vaccination records or documentation will only be visually verified - no information will be retained or copied.
If I am just leaving the facility briefly and coming right back in, do I have to show my vaccine verification each time I enter the facility?
Yes. Businesses and organizations are not permitted to retain vaccine records or status, so individuals will be required to show their proof of vaccination each time they enter the facility.
What is acceptable proof of vaccination or identification?
Proof of vaccination, identification and exemption requirements are determined by the Ministry of Health. For more information, visit www.hamilton.ca/ProofOfVaccination. Identification is required to verify name and date of birth only.
- Must show Name and Date of Birth, issued from an institution or organization
- Does not need to include a picture
- Can be shown as a photocopy or digital/electronical version (on a device)
- Can be expired
Do I need to show vaccine verification to use the washrooms in museum facility?
No. Members of the public will be permitted to quickly use the closest non-changeroom washroom and exit the building.
I am unvaccinated – can I still enter the event or meeting space?
These vaccine exemptions apply to meeting and event spaces:
- Children under 12 years of age
- Individuals with a medical exemption and supporting documentation from a physician/nurse
- Individuals using the washroom or passing through an indoor space to access outdoor space
- Retail or admission/membership purchases (without the intent to stay)
Are youth required to show identification? What is acceptable identification?
Youth 13 to 17 years of age accessing a meeting or event space are required to show proof of vaccination and identification in accordance with the Ministry of Health. For more information, visit www.hamilton.ca/ProofOfVaccination.
What if I refuse to show vaccine verification?
No member of the public will be permitted to enter the event or meeting space without proof of vaccination or exemption.
The City of Hamilton has a Zero Tolerance policy. Anyone engaging in verbal assaults, threats or aggression, vandalism, or incitement of violence will be ejected from the property with a mandatory suspension from all municipal facilities. We ask that everyone attending a City recreation centre/arena contributes to a positive and supportive environment for children, their families, and community sport.
What if someone in attendance at my event refuses to show vaccine verification?
The event organizer is responsible to ensure that attendees are aware of and comply with the Provincial requirement to show vaccination status when entering a meeting or event space. If they do not comply, the event may be cancelled, and a refund will not be issued. Staff may request at any time, documented proof of contact tracing, and evidence of vaccination screening.