North Carolina Easing COVID-19 Restrictions

Starting on Friday, February 26, at 5 PM, North Carolina will ease many restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. North Carolina’s Governor, Roy Cooper, announced his plans for Executive Order No. 195 on Wednesday to get rid of the statewide stay-at-home order, among other things.

The decision for Executive Order No. 195 follows recent reports that COVID-19 numbers have decreased, and vaccine distribution has increased.

Over 1.5 million North Carolinians have gotten at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, which is around 12.7% of the State’s population. These reports also show that many COVID-19 related trends such as confirmed cases and hospitalizations are decreasing.

What is Changing?

Executive Order No. 195 lifts the stay-at-home order placed on North Carolinians which required businesses to close and people to stay home between 10 PM and 5 AM.

The limit on indoor gatherings increases from 10 people to 25.

Alcohol sales for onsite consumption have extended from 9 PM to 11 PM.

An increased capacity for businesses.

Capacity Increases

Executive Order No. 195 allows some businesses to open up at 30% capacity and others to open up at a 50% capacity.

Businesses allowed to open at 30% capacity:

• Bars
• Conference Spaces
• Lounges
• Night Clubs
• Indoor areas within Amusement Parks
• Movie Theaters
• Entertainment Facilities
• Sports Arenas/Fields
• Venues

These businesses may not exceed 250 people except for large indoor event venues if they follow additional safety measures and limit their capacity to 15%.

Businesses allowed to open at 50% capacity:

• Restaurants
• Breweries/Wineries/Distilleries
• Fitness/Physical Activity Facilities
• Pools
• Museums/Aquariums
• Retail Stores
• Outdoor areas within Amusement Parks
• Salons

Safety First

Governor Cooper still advises everyone to remain cautious and keep their guard up. Wearing a mask and social distancing in most places is still required. Washing your hands is encouraged.

To learn more about North Carolina’s Executive Order No. 195, click here.

To read more of our blog, click here.

Stay healthy and safe.

From your friends as BridgehouseLaw.