Gov. Laura Kelly has presented her detailed framework for a phased-in approach to begin reopening the state. As of May 18, Douglas County is completely aligned with Phase 1.5 of the Governor’s plan.
Anyone with questions about a public health order can email phorders@ldchealth.org or review these guidelines for restaurants and bars, parks and recreation facilities and libraries.
Here are some other FAQs and our guidance for "Smart and Safe: Reopening Douglas County"
What phase are we in? How long will it last?
- Phase 1.5 began on May 18 and will last for at least two weeks. After that, phasing will depend on measures of local and statewide rates of transmission, hospitalizations, and public health system capacity, with each phase lasting a minimum of two weeks. Please visit https://douglascountyks.org/coronavirus or LDCHealth.org/Coronavirus for information about the current phase and guidelines.
Can I gather in large groups now that the stay-at-home order is lifted?
- Each phase has a limit on how many people can gather in one space at a time. For Phase 1 and 1.5, that is limited to 10 people. We encourage you to continue to keep 6 feet of distance between you and other individuals in public spaces, wear masks when leaving your house, and to keep your circle of close contacts small.
What businesses are still closed in Phase 1.5?
- Bars and nightclubs, non-tribal casinos, theaters, museums, indoor leisure spaces, community centers, large entertainment venues, fairs, festivals, carnivals, parades, swimming pools, organized sports facilities and overnight summer camps remain closed in Phase 1.5
Are restaurants able to reopen for dine-in business?
- Restaurants will be able to reopen for dine-in business, with some restrictions, beginning Monday, May 18. Please see the guidance for more details.
Is self-serve food and beverage allowed?
- Self-serve food and drinks are allowed, however, we recommend keeping them closed as long as feasible or having a staff member serve customers instead of customers serving themselves.
Are farm wineries allowed to open for on-premises consumption?
- Beginning on Monday May 18, farm wineries may open for operations with the following recommendations:
- Adhere to the social distancing guidelines of 6 feet of distance between parties, and the mass gathering limit of 10 people (no more than 10 people in an indoor space, and groups of no more than 10). It is also recommended that all tastings occur outdoors. Businesses should post signage notifying the public of the rules. See additional recommendations and best practices outlined for restaurants.
When will pools reopen?
Pools will be allowed to open beginning on June 1, with restrictions on how many people can be in the space at one time that are in accordance with the mass gathering restrictions of each phase, as well as measures to encourage social distancing.
What type of mask should I wear? What if I need a mask but don’t have one?
For the general public, a cloth face covering is recommended in all businesses and public places. Please see CDC guidance on making and wearing a cloth mask. Please reserve medical-grade surgical masks and N95 masks for healthcare workers. Anyone who needs a mask can request one from the United Way at http://rhvc.galaxydigital.com/cloth-masks/
Should I plan a large event for this summer?
It is likely that we will experience a phased relaxing of the mass gathering limits over the course of the next several weeks and months. However, the limit and the phase that we are in will depend on local and statewide rates of transmission, hospitalizations, and public health system capacity. It is wise to assume that it will be difficult to plan large events with certainty through the summer months.
If I live in one county and work in another, which guidance should I follow?
Because local health orders are designed based on the current level of exposure of COVID-19 in a county, in general, you should follow the guidance from your home county. For example, if there is a stay-at-home order in your home county, but not the county where you work, you should continue to follow the stay-at-home order. However, if your place of work is open and your home county’s rules allow you to go to work, your place of work may be subject to local rules and guidelines, which you should follow while working there.
Are dental offices allowed to open for non-emergency procedures?
Dental offices may open, as long as they have sufficient PPE to safely perform procedures and ensure protection for themselves and their patients. Dental offices may choose to offer emergency services only if they feel that is the most appropriate course of action.