Reopening CT - Phase 1
May 20 is the target date for a gradual, phased in reopening of certain businesses if public health conditions are met, including 14 consecutive days of declining hospitalization rates, increased testing, contact tracing, protection for those at highest risk, adequate protective equipment, and social distancing measures.

For Phase 1, Governor Ned Lamont and DECD Commissioner David Lehman have shared the following guidance for restaurants, offices, retail, hair salons and barber shops, and museums and zoos: 


All businesses subject to these rules will be required to self-certify prior to opening on May 20. The certification system will be online beginning next week. The guidance includes detailed information regarding physical distancing, hygiene, sanitizing, personal protective equipment, scheduling, training and other requirements.

In addition, the state has established a new task force chaired by CRCOG's Lyle Wray that will help small businesses understand and implement these new regulations. The task force will release a detailed guide by May 15 to help organizations implement our rules and open safely. 

Click here to read Governor Lamont's press release.
POTABLE WATER ISSUES DUE TO BUILDING CLOSURES

All building water systems that have not been utilized for a long period of time may experience stagnant water issues that could compromise public health. The state Department of Public Health has prepared a guidance document outlining steps that should be taken to address this concern.

View guidance  document .
Outdoor Dining
Protecting Restaurant Workers and Customers
The Connecticut Restaurant Association and health officials across the state have developed a set of recovery procedures – the Connecticut Restaurant Promise – which demonstrate that the restaurant has committed to take all necessary steps to protect their employees, customers, and their community. Review the  CT Restaurant Promise  document.

Best Practices for Retail Food Stores, Restaurants, and Food Pick-Up/Delivery Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic
In addition, the Food & Drug Administration has published best practices for restaurants and other good pick up and delivery services, which are available  here . 

Outdoor Service of Alcoholic Beverages
Restaurants wishing to offer outdoor service of alcoholic beverages at their restaurant, bar, or other dining establishment, must obtain state and local approvals.  The Patio, Extension of Use, And/or Additional Consumer Bar Application  must be submitted to the state Department of Consumer Protection with the necessary local approvals, including zoning, fire marshal, and local health. Since many town offices are closed and officials are working remotely, DCP is accepting electronic signatures. DCP Notice regarding outdoor service of alcoholic beverages.

Outdoor Dining – Zoning Issues
The Governor’s Office is expected to release an Executive Order to authorize towns to accommodate opportunities for restaurants and cafes to expand outdoor dining. For example, removing restrictions on maximum sizes on outdoor cafes and allowing seating to extend into parking lots (not roads). This may involve 1) expediting the ability of towns to enact zoning changes by streamlining state and local approval processes; or 2) issuing a blanket waiver of minimum parking requirements either for the duration of the public health emergency or until November 1 to allow restaurants to take advantage of early fall weather. Stay tuned!