Bell Centre allowed full capacity for start of Canadiens' season

One of the NHL's loudest rinks will be at max volume for the start of the 2021-22 campaign.

Quebec health authorities are lifting some COVID-19 restrictions within the province, and as a result, the Bell Centre will be allowed to operate at full capacity by the time the Montreal Canadiens drop the puck on their regular season, according to The Canadian Press.

Fans in Montreal will be required to show proof of vaccination and wear masks.

Last week, the NHL said it expected all arenas except for the Bell Centre and Rogers Arena - home of the Vancouver Canucks - to host at full capacity this season. In the memo, the league said the Canadiens could fill a maximum of 33% of seats.

Quebec officials allowed a portion of fans into the Bell Centre this past summer as the Canadiens marched to the Stanley Cup Final.

Montreal's first home game of the regular season is scheduled for Oct. 16 versus the New York Rangers.