Oakland will require proof of COVID-19 vaccination to enter a number of public indoor spaces starting in February in an effort to limit the omicron variant's spread.
The Oakland City Council on Tuesday unanimously approved an ordinance that would require anyone entering bars, restaurants, theaters and large indoor events, among other spaces, to submit proof of vaccination in order to enter.
Oakland's new rules take effect on Feb. 1, and affected businesses are required to post signage informing customers of the forthcoming requirement starting Jan. 15.
Starting in February, Oakland will need to provide proof of vaccination to eat and drink indoors at banquet halls, bars, coffee houses, clubs and restaurants. Proof of vaccination will also be required at concert venues, entertainment venues, fitness studios, gyms, large indoor events, museums, recreation facilities, senior adult care facilities, senior programs run by the city and yoga studios.
Councilmember Dan Kalb's initial legislation included dental facilities and public libraries, but the majority of the council voted to exempt them from the ordinance.
Oakland joins neighbors like Berkeley, San Francisco and Contra Costa County to require proof of vaccination in certain indoor businesses. San Jose requires it at city-owned facilities, and the mayor on Tuesday proposed requiring proof of a booster dose.
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