Beginning Thursday, September 24, Oahu will allow for certain businesses and attractions to reopen with limited capacity and gatherings held to a maximum of five people, under Oahu’s new tiered system. City officials designed the system in order to strategically address the increases in new COVID-19 infections.
While it is welcome news to all, residents will need to read the rules carefully and understand that restrictions are still in place.
Under the new system, Tier 1 which begins on September 24th will allow for a variety of nonessential businesses to reopen that were previously shut down due to the “stay-at-home” order. Businesses will still need to contend with capacity limits and numerous other restrictions.
Highlights of the new order include:
- Businesses allowed to reopen:
- Social gathers are allowed up to a five person (who can be unrelated) maximum at parks, beaches, and hiking trails
- Retails and essential businesses must follow a 50% max capacity limit
- Restaurants can reopen at 50% capacity with parties no bigger than five people from the same household. Reservations are required and contact details must be provided
- Museums, zoos, and attractions can reopen at 50% capacity
- Bowling alleys can reopen at 50% capacity, parties limited to five people
- Hair and nail salons can reopen with restrictions
- Gyms and fitness facilities must operate outdoors
- Businesses and activities NOT allowed to reopen:
- Bars and night clubs
- Short term rentals
- Helicopter tours
- Concerts
- Live theater
- Organized team sports
Tiered System Resources: