Reopening, Temporary Capacity and Gathering Limits Update

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Today at 12:30pm, Governor Baker and Lt. Governor Polito made an announcement relative to reopening and the temporary capacity and gathering limits:

1. Temporary Capacity Limits Lifted – The 25% temporary capacity limits order will expire on February 8th at 5:00 AM.

All businesses in the list below, currently limited to 25% capacity, will return to 40% capacity, as previously allowed (industry guidance effective in December 2020 will apply).

·     Arcades and Recreational Businesses

·     Driving and Flight Schools

·     Gyms/Health Clubs

·     Libraries

·     Museums

·     Retail

·     Offices

·     Places of Worship

·     Lodging (common areas)

·     Golf (indoor areas)

·     Movie theaters (no more than 50 people per theater)

·     Restaurants will now be limited to 40% of their seated capacity, but as under the 25% capacity rule, employees will not count toward their capacity limit

·     Close Contact Personal Services will now be limited to 40% capacity, but as under the 25% capacity rule, employees will be not count toward their capacity limit

·     A limit of 8 people per 1000 sq. feet applies for smaller businesses without an available fire occupancy capacity limit

 

2. Gatherings Order – Gatherings remain at no more than 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors.

3. The Commonwealth remains in Phase 3 Step 1 of Reopening (Order No. 58) – Indoor performance venues and indoor recreation businesses like roller rinks and trampoline parks remain closed

All sector specific guidance will be updated at www.mass.gov/reopening.