As ardent supporters of our local businesses, we are thrilled to hear that Alameda County moved into the orange tier. We’re certainly not out of the woods yet, and we continue to encourage everyone to keep wearing masks, maintain social distancing rules and follow state guidelines for safety, even after becoming vaccinated. But with this recent move come more ways to support our local businesses and organizations in a safe manner, and they need our help!
So, what exactly does moving to the orange tier mean? Real estate remains essential - here’s a thorough update as to how buyers and sellers are navigating the market. Additionally, here is a list of businesses and activities permitted to open indoors, with capacity restrictions and modifications:
- Bars: Outdoors with modifications, no meals required to be served
- Breweries, Distilleries, and Wineries: Indoors at 25% maximum capacity or 100 people, whichever is fewer; No meals required to be served
- Family entertainment centers: Indoors for naturally-distanced activities like bowling, escape rooms, and billiards; 25% maximum capacity
- Gyms, fitness centers and studios (including hotel facilities): 25% maximum capacity and indoor pools are permitted; Indoor hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms continue to be closed
- Movie Theaters: 50% maximum capacity or 200 people, whichever is fewer
- Museums, Zoos and Aquariums: 50% maximum capacity
- Places of worship: 50% maximum capacity
- Restaurants: 50% maximum capacity or 200 people, whichever is fewer
- Retail: Open indoors with modifications and food courts permitted with indoor dining restrictions
- Outdoor sports and live performances with fans/attendees: In the orange tier, capacity will be limited to 33% and with advanced reservations only. Concession sales will be primarily in-seat (no concourse sales). Designated indoor seated dining area capacity will be limited to 25%. Attendance will be limited to in-state spectators and guests must attest their reserved seats are only for one household.
- Amusement parks: In the orange tier, overall park capacity and indoor capacity will be limited to 25%, including indoor dining. Small groups with a maximum of 3 household groups may attend together. Attendance will be limited to in-state visitors. Walk-up ticket sales will be permitted, but park operators must collect name and contact information of the ticket purchases for necessary contract tracing.
As of April 1st, if numbers comply, it sounds like Contra Costa County will also be following a move into the orange tier on April 7th.
Stay safe out there and remember, when it comes to supporting our communities, purchasing goods and services from local businesses will help to keep our local economy healthy, and give it a better chance at recovery from the pandemic.
