What’s open & what’s allowed in Washington State?

It’s been over a year since the coronavirus pandemic broke, affecting many states and countries. Washington was not spared. Fortunately, things are looking up.

About 3.1 million Washingtonians (40% of the population) are now fully vaccinated. The entire state is on the third phase of the reopening roadmap. And on June 30, 2021, Washington will fully reopen. While we wait for that day, let us look at what is currently open and allowed.

Restaurants and bars are open at 50% capacity

Indoor dining is allowed at 50% capacity. Outdoor or open air-dining is also permitted with a cap of 10 people per table. Alcohol can be served at drinking establishments or delivered to homes until midnight.

Existing safety precautions including wearing of face masks, social distancing, and no bar seating remain in place. This guidance applies to all eating and drinking establishments, including breweries, distilleries, wineries, night clubs, cafes, and food courts.

Personal services

Personal services providers, such as salons, barber shops, cosmetic services, and tattoo parlors are open at 50% indoor occupancy. Physical distancing between stations should be maintained.

Retail stores that welcome in-store customers

In-store retail including farmers markets, groceries, convenience stores, and pharmacies are limited to 50% capacity. Specific in-store requirements for retail shops are in place to ensure the well-being of guests as well as the service staff.

To minimize guest crowding, some retail stores offer online shopping and curbside pick-up. Some retail stores also offer delivery services within a certain area.

Washington Retail Association, along with other industry partner associations, has launched the “Stay Safe, Stay Open” initiative to promote the importance of facial coverings as a tool to lower the risk of transmission and keep the business community afloat.

Indoor fitness and outdoor sports

Indoor fitness centers and gyms, including indoor recreational sports, personal training, no contact martial arts, gymnastic or indoor climbing are allowed to operate at 50% maximum capacity. Indoor pools must follow the guidelines of the Department of Health’s COVID-19 Prevention Guidance and Reopening of Water Recreation Facilities in Phases.

Sports competitions and tournaments held in outdoor venues are allowed, provided that cap the audience at 400 people. Check the complete spectators’ guidelines here.

Indoor and outdoor entertainment establishments

Washington has world class museums and attractions that are gradually reopening to the public with safety protocols in place.

Museums and other indoor entertainment establishments like aquariums, indoor theaters, and concert venues are allowed to operate with a maximum 50% capacity or 400 people, whichever is less. Drinking and eating guidelines apply.

Meanwhile, outdoor attractions like zoos, outdoor gardens, and outdoor theaters can accommodate a maximum of 400 guests. These places, however, should also consider the sizes of their facilities in imposing guest limits.

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