HARRISBURG, Pa. – Restaurants will be able to reopen their indoor dining doors on Monday, January 4th. However, the indoor capacity depends on whether the unit has been self-certified or not.
The Secretary of the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), Dennis Davin, reminded the restaurants that, starting Monday, at 8:00, they can open at a capacity of 50% if they have completed the online self-certification process.
“Self-certification is a simple way to promote a unit’s commitment to the health and safety of its employers,” said Sec. Yes I’m coming. “As we enter a new year with a vaccine to help mitigate COVID-19, the Wolf Administration is hopeful and looking forward to supporting restaurants as much as possible to get back into business as usual. . “
According to officials, the self-certification process is open to all restaurants, private social clubs and food service companies, placing food in a regular capacity, without events.
Social distance, masking and other mitigation measures still need to be used to protect workers and employers.
Officials say municipalities that have implemented more restrictive mitigation efforts remain in place.
In addition, as of Monday, restaurants, private social clubs and food service companies serving alcohol for on-site consumption must end alcohol sales at 11pm and all alcoholic beverages must be disposed of by patrons by midnight. .
Drinking alcohol on the spot is prohibited, unless it is part of the meal; cocktails and drinks are allowed for transportation, officials say.
The occurrence of regularly scheduled or complaints-based inspections by law enforcement agencies will not be affected by the status of certification; in fact, certification proves that a company is committed to protecting employees and providing customers with a safe dining experience.
The Wolf Administration has launched Frequently Asked Questions as a reference for restaurant owners and the public, along with updated restaurant guidelines.
Business owners with additional questions about the self-certification program can contact [email protected].