(January 27, 2021) The City of Long Beach has released a new Safer at Home Order, effective yesterday, that allows some sectors to reopen under new guidelines and also allows for small outdoor gatherings. The City Order comes after the Regional Stay at Home Order was lifted on Monday because it is projected that Southern California will have a 15% intensive care unit (ICU) capacity within four weeks.
Highlights are provided below and individual business sectors will receive direct outreach from the Downtown Long Beach Alliance (DLBA) outlining their specific protocols under the Health Order.
- The 10 PM to 5 AM curfew put into effect on November 21 is rescinded.
- Gatherings are limited to no more than 15 people from no more than three households, with gatherings allowed outdoors only.
- Outdoor dining may resume. Tables must be spaced 8 feet, with no more than 6 people at each table. Face masks may only be removed by seated customers when they are eating or drinking.
- Personal care services may resume indoor operations. Capacity limits are determined by the ability to maintain 6 feet of distance between customers.
- Outdoor operations at museums, zoos, and aquariums may resume.
- Standalone grocery establishments are limited to 50% of maximum capacity.
- Retail businesses are limited to 25% of maximum capacity.
- Places of worship may continue to operate outdoors.
- Gyms can continue outdoor operations.
Please note that while infection and hospitalization rates of COVID-19 are decreasing, it is critical that we all adhere to health protocols and continue to wear masks and physically distance whenever we leave our homes. Vaccinations may be underway, but it will be months before the entire community is immunized. In the meantime, please continue to protect yourselves, families, friends, co-workers, and neighbors by doing your best to slow the spread. We encourage our community members to visit VAXLB for general information and to learn when you will be eligible for a vaccine appointment.
Questions may be directed to DLBA Communications Manager Samantha Mehlinger at SamanthaM@dlba.org. Businesses may reach out to DLBA Economic Development & Policy Manager Austin Metoyer at AustinM@dlba.org.