We have received numerous questions regarding the Health Officer’s Order, dated May 8, 2020. The “higher-risk businesses and activities” listed under 9a of the State Health Officer’s Order will remain closed at this time. Night clubs are listed as a higher-risk business and must remain closed. The ABC Board considers a nightclub to have the following characteristics:
- The main purpose of a “night club” is to socialize, consume alcohol, and dance.
- Night clubs typically have a dance floor area.
- Night clubs generally open for business at night and are open into the early morning hours.
- Adherence to the social distancing guidelines would be near impossible in a Night Club.
If your licensed establishment falls under number 15 of the State Health Officer’s Order dated May 8, 2020, you may resume operations effective May 11, 2020, provided that you adhere to the State Health Officers Order and the State Health Officer’s “Guidelines for Restaurants and Bars”.
If you are able to convert your business to operate in a manner that will comply with the State Health Officer’s Order and the “Guidelines for Restaurants and Bars”, you may open on Monday, May 11, 2020. For example, close your dance floor and place tables in a manner that complies with social distancing, change your hours of operation to be consistent with restaurants, etc. Please see the Health Officer’s Order, dated May 8, 2020, and the State Health Officer’s “Guidelines for Restaurants and Bars” for additional guidance.
Of course, all businesses need to comply with local curfew ordinances, if a curfew is in effect.