A new health order for Sedgwick County was discussed and approved by county commissioners on Tuesday. They include stricter limits on crowd sizes and a reduction in the hours some businesses can remain open.
The order will be in effect from 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, November 11, to midnight, Thursday, December 31.
The new restrictions include:
- Mass gatherings will now be capped at 100 people or 50% of the fire code capacity, whichever is less, but individuals must be able to maintain the six-foot social distance requirement. Mass gatherings apply to restaurants, bars and night clubs, and fitness and health centers due to not wearing masks during those activities, close proximity of residents, and residents at these locations for a longer period of time.
- Bars, night clubs, and other businesses licensed to sell alcohol for on-premises consumption can stay open until 11:00 p.m. These establishments are able to operate at with 100 patrons or 50% of the fire code capacity, whichever is less. These businesses may continue carryout and curbside services past midnight. Restaurants may seat parties of no more than eight people.
- Retail stores are not considered mass gatherings however these entities are limited to 50% of fire code capacity based on concerns about social distancing and holiday shopping.
- Large venues (2,000 plus people) where 50% of the fire code capacity is still a large number and social distancing is possible must have approval from County Health Officer, Dr. Minns, to host events.
- Religious institutions, election polling places, licensed child care facilities, schools and their activities, and courts are exempt from this order.
The new health order comes on the same day the Sedgwick County coronavirus positivity rate increased to 22.7%.
