San Mateo County Relaxes Shelter Orders

SAN MATEO, CA — San Mateo County amended its shelter-in-place orders Thursday to allow outdoor dining among other activities previously restricted.

Under San Mateo County Health Officer Dr. Scott Morrow’s revisions to the shelter orders, charter boat operations will be allowed with social distancing restrictions and guidelines for holding funerals have been amended.

The changes go into effect at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday.

Restaurants that open for outdoor dining must offer curbside pickup or delivery. Lines for pickup or takeout food must be in a separate area from the outdoor dining area to maintain social distancing.

Alcohol can only be sold to customers purchasing meals and bar areas must remain closed under the revised order.

Patrons will be required to wear face coverings except when sitting at a table.

Charter boats will be allowed to operate but must limit the number of passengers so that at least six feet of spacing can be maintained.

Rod holders must be spaced at least six feet apart and boats must prohibit the shared handling of equipment, such as bait and tackle or binoculars.

Passengers won't be allowed to shake hands, share food or drinks, or engage in any physical contact.

The new order also permits indoor funerals with up to 10 individuals present and outdoor funerals will be limited to 25 or fewer.

Operators will be required to wash boats after each trip and sanitize bathrooms after each use. Bathrooms will be required to have hand sanitizer or soap and water.

Passengers will be allowed to bring hand-held lunch coolers only. No large coolers will be allowed.