On-Site Alcohol Consumption Banned In Allegheny County Eateries

PITTSBURGH, PA — An alarming spike in coronavirus cases has prompted Allegheny County officials to ban on-site alcohol consumption at bars and restaurants. The prohibition goes into effect Tuesday at 5 p.m.

Bars and restaurants will still be able to offer alcoholic drinks to go.

The ban came after the county health department reported 90 new coronavirus cases on Saturday and 96 on Sunday.

The Sunday number was the largest single-day coronavirus case jump since the outbreak began in mid-March. The weekly total of 393 cases also was the largest weekly number during the outbreak.

According to the health department, more than 75 percent of the new cases are between the ages of 19 and 49.

Gov. Tom Wolf issued a statement supporting the county's move.

"This was the right move to work to stop the recent spike of COVID-19 cases in its tracks and to remind all residents and businesses that the best defense we have in preventing the spread of COVID-19 and keeping Pennsylvanians safe is to continue to follow the mask-wearing requirement, practice social distancing, and follow safety guidelines even and especially during the green phase of reopening," he said.

"We cannot become complacent in practicing the measures we know can protect everyone from the spread of this very contagious virus. It is my hope that swift action on the part of the county results in swift containment and the return to an increased commitment to protect all residents, especially those most vulnerable to COVID-19, and that this action sets an example for the rest of the state to continue to follow mitigation efforts put in place to protect lives and livelihoods. "

Complaints regarding establishments which are violating the ban can be filed through a
web form, email (COVIDcomplaints@alleghenycounty.us) or by calling the Information Center at 412-350-INFO (412-350-4636).