The County of Santa Barbara received approval from the California Public Health Department to move forward with a Stage 2 of reopening businesses.
What businesses can reopen?
The types of businesses now allowed to reopen in the latter phase of Stage 2 include dine-in restaurants (with modifications), schools and child care, retail stores, shopping malls, some offices, campgrounds, and RV parks.
Higher risk businesses, such as hair and nail salons, gyms, churches, and hotels for non-essential stays, are not allowed to open until the Governor declares that eligible counties can move into Stage 3.
What do I need to complete to reopen my business?
Before the businesses can reopen in Santa Barbara County, they are required to review state and local guidance, complete a COVID-19 Prevention Plan*, and self-certify that they can open safely; all of which can be found at
recoverysbc.org/reopen-your-business/.
Upon completion of the self-certification, businesses receive a certificate to print and display attesting to a safe and clean environment for workers and customers. The County will be requiring ALL businesses, whether you've been open or are just now allowed to open, to complete the self-certification program:
Post the industry specific checklist and the attestation at your business to show your customers and employees you have reduced the risk and are open for business.
* Prevention Plan templates are available for all industries.
What guidance should I follow to operate my business?
Businesses now permitted to reopenmust adhere to social distancing guidelines provided by the Governor and the Santa Barbara County Health Officer include. For the County's guidelines on how to reopen, please refer to the
RISE Guide. The State has provided
Guidance for Dine-In Restaurants,
Checklist for Dine-In Restaurants, and
Guidance for Retailthat can be useful in the planning process. These documents help businesses understand how to adapt procedures and practices for this next stage of reopening.
For general questions about Stage 2 reopening and general COVID-19 information, residents may call the Santa Barbara County Call Center at (833) 688-5551.
How can I expand my restaurant seating to outdoor areas?
The Santa Barbara City Council directed a flexible citywide approach for outdoor dining on sidewalks, streets, on-street parking, and private parking lots. Starting on May 22, 2020 at 4 p.m., State Street will be closed from Haley Street to Sola Street and restaurants can begin preparations for outdoor dining areas. The City is quickly preparing information to provide guidelines for establishing outdoor dining. The City will provide technical assistance on alcoholic beverage regulation issues, including completion of ABC forms, and related matters. More information will follow regarding these items. To propose an outdoor dining area adjacent to your business, send an email to
[email protected].
