Santa Barbara County Health Officer, Dr. Henning Ansorg has issued a Health Officer Order in response to the States new four-tiered color-coded reopening framework (pictured). Santa Barbara County is classified as Tier One, “purple” – the highest risk tier. The new framework allows for some previously closed sectors to reopen indoor services with modifications. This Order is effective August 31 at 5 p.m. and continues until 5 p.m. on September 29, 2020, or until it is extended, rescinded, superseded, or amended in writing.

As required by the Health Officer Order the following sectors may open indoor operations with modifications and adherence to the Health Officer Order and State provided guidance located here.

• Hair salons and barbershops
• Indoor occupancy is limited to 25% capacity. Common areas and food court dining areas must remain closed. Food court food facilities may remain open for off-site consumption (take-out or delivery).
• Libraries limited to 25% occupancy capacity
• Retail limited to 25% occupancy capacity

Additionally, the following businesses and activities must continue to keep physical locations closed:

• In-person higher education including technical schools, colleges, universities, adult education, and trade schools. Indoor lectures are prohibited.  Courses offered in specialized indoor settings (e.g. labs, studios, arts), whose design imposes substantial physical distancing on participants are permitted when following the Stated issued guidance.  Distance learning is allowed;
• Parties and Receptions. Outdoor wedding ceremonies (religious or non-religious) are permitted so long as the State guidance for Places of Worship is followed.  Indoor ceremonies are not allowed at this time.  Receptions for weddings are not allowed.
• Rodeos and public equestrian events.
• Organized sports and team sports including adult, amateur (non-professional) team sports, and indoor and drills, except professional sports without a live audience. (Intramural &Youth sports training and conditioning are allowed when following State guidelines.)

Gatherings are not allowed whether small or large. Gatherings are defined as an event or convening that brings together people from different households in a single room or space at the same time in any indoor or outdoor space whether public or private. Gathering exemptions include:

• While in a work setting which is allowed while maintaining physical distancing;
• Outdoor recreational activities while maintaining six feet distance from others. Examples include walking, cycling, jogging and hiking;
• Congregate living situations including dormitories and homeless encampments;
• Outdoor worship services, wedding ceremonies, outdoor cultural ceremonies or outdoor protests, when physical distancing of six feet is maintained.

More information can be found on COVID-19 and the response locally at www.publichealthsbc.org or call 211 for further assistance.