Reopening & Operations Guidance

DC’s COVID capacity restrictions were fully lifted on June 11.

Mayor Bowser reinstated DC’s indoor mask mandate, in effect through January 31.

For restaurants, the Order means indoor diners will once again need to wear a mask when they aren’t actively eating or drinking. ABRA provided additional insight, clarifying that any outdoor space – including an ‘interior’ rooftop deck, so long as it is not enclosed – is considered a non-indoor space and is not subject to the mask mandate.

Beginning January 15, 2022, many DC public businesses will require all patrons aged 12 or older to show proof that they have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine before they are allowed entry (two doses will be required starting Feb 15). Establishments must visibly display signage informing patrons that proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required to enter indoors.

Businesses are no longer required to implement social distancing and capacity restrictions to reduce the spread of COVID-19. While availability of an effective COVID-19 vaccine has allowed businesses to fully re-open, COVID-19 still presents a risk to the health of our community – particularly with the spread of the Delta variant. Businesses in the District of Columbia are recommended to continue to take precautions to keep people safe as vaccination rates increase, recognizing that some may not be feasible in all settings.

This document issued by the Mayor’s Office replaces all previous sector-specific guidance (e.g., restaurants, hotels, personal services, etc) and describes best practices that all businesses and community facilities can follow to help reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission among workers, patrons, and the community. All business should review this guidance thoroughly and share with employees. Topics covered include:

• Fundamentals of safe operation
• Communication / operations
• Vaccination
• Face masks
• Physical distancing
• Ventilation and building considerations
• Cleaning and disinfecting

*This guidance is not intended for use in healthcare settings, educational settings, childcare, or summer camp settings. It is also not intended for non-healthcare congregate settings such as correctional facilities or homeless shelters. These settings have their own specific guidance to follow. For additional information on those sectors – as well as travel guidance – visit coronavirus.dc.gov/phasetwo.

The Mayor’s office purchased a large quantity of masks, hand sanitizer, and cleaning supplies to help businesses reopening in Summer 2020. We still have additional PPE packages remaining. Email jwiebenson@georgetowndc.com if you would like a package.