WILMINGTON, Del.— Delaware restaurants' inside dining and indoor gatherings outside of homes will be capped at 30 percent capacity, Gov. John Carney announced Tuesday.
The governor says the restrictions are intended to slow community spread of COVID-19 as the Delaware and the country are experiencing a surge of cases. The restrictions will be formally issued in a revision to the governor’s omnibus emergency order later this week.
The restrictions are as follows:
- Indoor gatherings in homes must be capped at no more than 10 people.
- Indoor gatherings outside of homes must be limited to 30 percent of the venue’s stated fire capacity, up to a cap of 50 people. This includes all events, such as weddings, funerals, services in houses of worship, performances, political gatherings, and events in public spaces including fire halls.
- Outdoor public gatherings are limited to 50 people. Up to 250 may be allowed with a plan approved by the Delaware Division of Public Health.
- Restaurants must operate at no more than 30 percent of fire capacity indoors, with allowances for additional outdoor seating.
- Restaurants must also put a sign on each table that says: "Please put a mask on when you're not eating or drinking. Put a mask on whenever staff approach the table. Put a mask on whenever you get up from the table."
- Carney’s order will also prohibit Delaware youth sports organizations, teams and venues from hosting or participating in tournaments with out-of-state teams, effective at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 1. The order includes a provision prohibiting Delaware teams from traveling across states lines for tournaments.
During his press conference, the governor announced masks will be required at all times in exercise facilities effective Monday at 8 a.m.
“These are difficult decisions, but we face a difficult and challenging winter,” said Carney. “COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are rising in Delaware and across the country. Nearly 250,000 Americans, including 739 Delawareans, have already lost their lives to this virus. Our focus must be on protecting lives.”
Carney's office says the DPH continues to recommend that K-12 public schools operate in a hybrid model with a mix of in-person and remote instruction.
“Transmission of COVID-19 has been rare in Delaware schools because students, educators and staff are following the basic health guidelines and doing their part to keep children in classrooms. Exposure is primarily occurring in social settings outside of school,” said DPH Director Dr. Karyl Rattay. “Let’s follow their lead and do what works. Wear a mask. Avoid the urge to gather socially with friends or extended family outside your household. Wash or sanitize your hands frequently. This is a difficult time for all Delawareans. Thank you for everything you’re doing. We’ll get through this.”
Carney on Tuesday also announced an expansion of the DE Relief Grants program for businesses hardest hit by COVID-19 restrictions. That will provide up to $25 million in additional relief for restaurants. Qualifying businesses, including restaurants and taprooms, will receive double their original grant allocation.
“We will also continue to support the Delaware families and small businesses who have been hardest hit by this crisis,” said Carney. “Let’s all do our part to slow the spread of COVID-19. Wear a mask. Celebrate the holidays with immediate family only. Stay vigilant.”
