Clarification on Expanded Health Measures
Further to our May 4th communication on the enhanced public health measures and mandatory restrictions announced by the Alberta Government; we have received confirmation on how these measures apply to the golf industry. We have been advised today that AHS is currently in the process of updating the website to reflect the information noted below. This may not be updated immediately but we felt it important to provide these details to operators in preparation for Monday.
Sports & Recreation
Provincewide Restriction:

As of Sunday, May 9th at 11:59 pm, outdoor sports and recreation, including golf, is limited to members of your household; or if living alone, to two close contacts. All indoor sport and recreation is prohibited (golf is considered by AHS as an outdoor recreation and does not apply to the outdoor gathering limit).

Applies to:

  • all group physical activities such as team sports, fitness classes, and training sessions

  • All one-on-one lessons and training activities (it is our understanding that all indoor and outdoor lessons are currently paused including simulators)

  • All practices, training and games

It is in our industry's best interest to go to great lengths to ensure we are following the current health orders. Golf is still open while many industries are closed.
Outdoor Social Gatherings
Inside Hot Zone Areas:

Outdoor gathering limit of no more than 5 individuals with 2 metre physical distancing mandatory between members of different households.

Outside Hot Zone Areas:

Outdoor gathering limit of no more than 10 individuals with 2 metre physical distancing mandatory between members of different households.

(golf is considered by AHS provincewide as an outdoor recreation and does not apply to the outdoor gathering limits noted above).
Retail
Inside Hot Zone Areas:

Retail operations are limited to 10% capacity (not including staff) or a minimum of 5 customers with curbside pickup, delivery and online services encouraged.

Outside Hot Zone Areas:

Retail operations must limit customer capacity to 15% of fire code occupancy (not including staff) or a minimum of 5 customers with curbside pick up, delivery and online services encouraged
Restaurants & Patios
Provincewide:

In person dining is prohibited both inside the restaurant and on patios as of Sunday, May 9th at 11:59 pm. Takeout and delivery is permitted.
Fines
Provincewide:

Fines for violating a public health order have been doubled ($2,000 per individual). First time offenders could be fined up to $100,000.
Outbreaks & Business Closures
Provincewide:

Businesses with transmission of 3 or more confirmed cases will be required by health officials to close for 10 days. Any business that does not comply will be subject to enforcement.
With the recent announcements based on surging case numbers, we are fortunate to have been provided with an opportunity to remain open for the enjoyment by Albertans however this needs to be done responsibly. Today, we were informed that golf was on the list of industries to be closed, however, the industry's commitment to being responsible and ensuring protocols were put into place to maintain the safety and well-being of golfers were the key deciding factors in the industry being permitted to remain open. We strongly urge all golf courses to continue to remain vigilant as the safety of staff and guests remains our utmost priority and we ask that all facilities do their part to adhere to all AHS guidelines.

We know this is a challenging time for all operators, staff members and golfers in our province. Our primary objective at NAGA-AB is to keep the industry informed and aligned to the best of our ability at all times. Please know that NAGA Alberta is working hard, alongside our government advocate Bruce McAllister & team, on reaching out to government to get this resolved for golf however we felt it important to send this communication prior to Monday, May 10th.

Please do not hesitate to contact us should you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Erica Beck
Regional Director, NGCOA Canada
President - NAGA Alberta
cc:
Robert Rousselle, Executive Director, PGA of Alberta
Phil Berube, CEO, Alberta Golf
Jennifer Cox, President, CSCM – Alberta Chapter
Terri Solodan, Executive Director, AGSA