City Issues Temporary Limited Stay at Home Order To Control COVID-19 Surge

In an effort to combat the spread of the coronavirus, the city has implemented a limited Stay at Home order.

The order lasts until Dec. 20.

“The city of Pasadena is emphasizing the need for restaurants and patrons to follow all public health protocols in order for outdoor dining to continue,” according to a statement released by the city.

But, the statement points out, “Pasadena is not the place to come for social gatherings, whether at a home of a friend or relative, a fraternity picnic, or a group meal at an outdoor dining establishment — no gatherings are allowed.”

As part of the order, the following restrictions have been put in place:

• All public and private gatherings and events with individuals from more than one household are prohibited, except for outdoor faith-based services and protests that are conducted in accordance with public health protocols (these are constitutionally-protected rights) and other activities as stated or referenced in the Temporary Order. A gathering is defined by the state as a social situation that brings people together from different households at the same time in a single space or place.

While outdoor dining at restaurants is currently allowed in Pasadena, only individuals from the same household can eat within six feet of each other. Restaurants should provide this information to patrons, such as on their websites and as they take reservations. Compliance by restaurants and customers is required if outdoor dining is to remain viable.

• Businesses that are currently permitted to operate indoors must require all patrons to wear a face covering at all times and maintain at least six feet of physical distance, in addition to following all other public health protocols.

• Nonessential retail and personal care services may not exceed 25 percent occupancy (consistent with the state order and existing local order). Retail establishments must increase their vigilance in actively managing occupancy to meet this requirement and reduce crowding, especially with increased activity during the holiday season.

• Essential retail establishments must reduce indoor occupancy to allow for at least six feet of physical distance between individuals at all times, and increase their vigilance in actively managing occupancy to meet this requirement and reduce crowding, especially with increased activity during the holiday season.

• Businesses that are currently permitted to operate outdoors must require all patrons to wear a face covering at all times and maintain at least six feet of physical distance, in addition to following all other public health protocols.

• Fitness centers permitted to operate outdoors should take active steps to reduce occupancy in a given outdoor space.
• Swimming pools serving more than one household may open only for regulated lap swimming, with one person per lane.
• Restaurants may operate for takeout, delivery, drive-thru and outdoor dining, only as specified above.

The following businesses may continue to operate, so long as they are operating in accordance with public health protocols:

• Drive-in movies/events/car parades, provided occupants in each car are members of the same household.
• Schools, childcare facilities, and day camps that follow all applicable protocols.

The city is enforcing the State’s Limited Stay at Home Order, which requires residents to stay at their own homes between the hours of 10 p.m. and 5 a.m., except for essential activities. Restaurants are required to close on-site dining by 10 p.m. to allow for patrons to follow this state order. Parties at private residences and other after-hours social activities spread the virus and should not occur in an effort to avoid additional restrictions.

The city is implementing new pandemic safeguards and restrictions, effective at midnight tonight until 11:59 p.m. Dec. 20.

“Over the last few weeks, Pasadena, like almost all of the nation, has experienced an alarming increase in daily COVID-19 infections. In addition, local hospitalizations have increased at a rapid rate, putting healthcare resources at risk,” the press release states.

“To help mitigate the spread of the virus and protect the health of residents, the city has undertaken proactive enforcement measures to remind us all of our part in controlling this pandemic. Enforcement measures include city employees and volunteers from many city departments canvassing areas throughout the city reminding residents and visitors of the face covering requirement, and the prohibition of competitive group sports and gatherings in general.

See the updated Health Officer Order for additional information. Enforcement personnel will continue to monitor local businesses, parks, and other areas to ensure compliance with protocols issued by the Pasadena Public Health Department.