Gov. McMaster is lifting the statewide “Home-or-Work” order, making it voluntary, and allowing restaurants to serve customers in outdoor dining situations.
McMaster issued a series of executive orders on a news conference Friday relaxing many rules that had previously been imposed as the state continues to step forward in reopening the state’s economy.
McMaster announced the “home-or-work” order issued back on April 6 will now become voluntary on Monday, May 4 at 12:00 a.m. He also announced that restaurants, which have been prohibited from providing dine-in services since March 17, will be able to start serving customers outdoors starting on Monday.
The following are the new rules on outdoor dining:
- Tables are to be spaced a minimum of 8 feet from each other (measured from all edges of the table);
- Limit table groups to 8 individuals;
- Eliminate gatherings in the building when entering or exiting outdoor seating area;
- Maintain strict social/physical distancing guidelines;
- Tables, chairs, and seats should be sanitized after every customer
If open areas and/or temporary tents are utilized by existing, permitted restaurants, all sides of the tent must be open and the following conditions are required:
- Tables are to be spaced a minimum of 8 feet from each other (measured from all edges of the table);
- Table groups are to be limited to 8 individuals;
- State approved fire extinguisher within 75 feet of tent area;
- Minimum of 7-foot-6 inch head room (ceiling height)
McMaster also lifted the previous order requiring visitors from COVID-19 hot spots such as New York to self-quarantine for 14 days after entering the state and removing restrictions for short term rentals for people from virus hot spots effective immediately.
He also called for a statewide day of prayer on Sunday.
It is still being determined what to do about relaxing other rules, including hair salons, gyms, and public venues, but no decision has been made yet.
While the state is beginning to relax restrictions, McMaster urged residents to continue to follow safety recommendations. “South Carolinians, now more than ever, should be vigilant in protecting themselves, their loved ones, and their communities by practicing social distancing and continuing to follow the advice and recommendations from our public health experts.”
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