Lake County Health Issues Stricter Guidelines Than Holcomb’s Order
On Tuesday November 24, 2020 Lake County Health Department issued new guidelines that go into effect November 30 per Doctor Chandana Vavilala head of Lake County Health Department. The new guidelines are more strict than the Red Level Executive Order by Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb introduced a few weeks ago. Lake County Health Department stating the growing trend toward cases in the younger population is one of the reasons this was placed. The full 4 page list of guidelines and restrictions is listed at the bottom of this article. Here are some of the main points and changes going into effect.
All places of businesses and public accommodation must ensure that the mask mandate set fourth by the Governor is being followed. Masks must be worn by staff and all visitors in compliance with Executive Order 20-48.
Social gatherings must be limited to 25 or fewer unless approved by The Lake County Health Department 7 days prior through their Mitigation Plan.
Shopping Malls and retail stores including liquor stores and convenient stores may remain open at 75% capacity but staff must be screened daily and air ventilation increased to maximum capacity. Food courts may remain open with social distancing policies in effect and capacity of 50%.
Bars & Nightclubs must lower capacity to 25% indoors and 100% outdoors. This does include hookah and cigar bars. Bars must be closed and cleared of customers between the hours of 12AM-5AM nightly. Party size is limited to 6 people and spacing of 6 feet apart while sitting between tables. Table service is required and patrons must remain seated and congestion is not permitted.
Restaurants and food places must adhere to 50% capacity for indoor dining and 100% capacity for outdoor dining. They must be closed for dining between the hours of 12AM-5AM. Social distancing policies are enforced and no parties larger then 6 are allowed.
Salons, Barbershops, Nail Salons, and tattoo parlors may remain open but by appointment only. Patrons may remove their masks for beard trimmings or other facial treatments.
Funeral Homes must operate at 50% capacity in all public areas and adhere to the social distancing protocols.
Community swimming pools may remain open at 50% capacity which includes spas, hot tubs, splash pads, and fountains.
Gym, fitness centers, yoga and dance studios, and martial arts studios are now at 25% capacity.
All other non essential businesses including movie theaters, bowling alleys…. must reduce to 25% capacity. These businesses must be cleared of customers between 12AM-5AM.
