With coronavirus cases continuing to rise in Washington state and around the country once again, Gov. Jay Inslee extended restrictions on Dec. 30 in hope of slowing the spread as the aftermath of Thanksgiving gatherings and the upcoming holidays threaten to make the situation worse.
Below is a list of the new restrictions in effect for all counties through Monday, Jan. 11. For the official guidelines and more information, visit the governor’s website or the state’s coronavirus website.
Indoor gatherings
Indoor gatherings outside one’s household* are prohibited, unless participants have quarantined for at least a week and tested negative for the virus.
*A “household” is defined as individuals who reside in the same domicile
Outdoor social gatherings
Outdoor gatherings should be limited to no more than five people from outside your household.
Restaurants and bars
Indoor service is prohibited through Jan. 4. Outdoor dining and to-go service is allowed. No more than five people per table are allowed when dining outdoors.
Fitness facilities and gyms
No indoor operations are allowed. Outdoor fitness classes may still occur, but must follow the outdoor gathering guidelines above.
Entertainment (bowling centers, movie theaters and museums/zoos/aquariums)
Indoor service at bowling centers, movie theaters and museums/zoos/aquariums is prohibited. Drive-in movie theaters may still operate under the current drive-in movie theater guidance.
Real estate
Open houses are not permitted.
Weddings and funerals
No more than 30 people are allowed at ceremonies. Receptions are prohibited.
In-store retail
Indoor occupancy must be limited to 25% and any food court seating is prohibited.
Religious services
Indoor occupancy must be limited to 25%, or no more than 200 people, whichever is fewer. Congregation members/attendees must wear facial coverings at all times and congregation singing is prohibited. Choirs, bands or ensembles are not allowed to perform during service. Vocal or instrumental soloists are permitted to perform, and vocal soloists may have a single accompanist. Outdoor services must follow the outdoor dining guidance (see above).
Professional services
Employees must work from home when possible and close offices to the public. If they remain open, occupancy is restricted to 25%.
Personal services (hairstylists, barbers, tattoo artists, salons, etc.)
Occupancy at these businesses must be limited to 25%.
Long-term care facilities
Only outdoor visits are permitted. Exceptions can be made for essential support and end-of-life care.
Youth (school and non-school) and adult sporting activities
Sporting activities are limited to outdoor-only for intra-team practices and athletes must wear masks.
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