Are You Ready To Leave Your State? 30 Places Without Quarantine Restrictions
Be safe if you venture to another state.
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Let’s be honest — 2020 is proving to be a very long year. You’ve been quarantined at home for months, and you’re eager for a change of scenery. Whether you’re well overdue for a visit with loved ones or simply crave a vacation, you’re thinking about heading out of town.
Of course, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, safety is your first priority, so you want to make sure you take every precaution when traveling. It’s also important to choose a destination without quarantine restrictions, so you don’t have to spend the bulk of your trip in isolation.
While some states are still largely locked down, others are much less restrictive with quarantine rules. When visiting the latter, you’ll still need to exercise extreme caution, but you’ll have more freedom to move about. Here’s a look at states without quarantine restrictions, to help you plan a trip that’s both safe and fun.
Alaska
- Date of reopening: April 24
Originally one of the first states to open at full capacity, Gov. Mike Dunleavy tightened restrictions for travelers entering the state in August due to a spike in cases. Visitors are now required to have a negative COVID-19 test within three days of arrival or you can get one at the airport for $250.
If you don’t want to be tested, you can also opt to self-quarantine for 14 days. In addition to these precautions, individuals from separate households are also encouraged to maintain a 6-foot distance from one another.
Florida
- Date of reopening: May 4
Gov. Ron DeSantis was quick to reopen the Sunshine State, but a surge in cases caused him to close bars in late June. However, things changed on Sept. 25 when he signed an executive order lifting all remaining statewide COVID-19 restrictions on businesses in the state — including bars and restaurants.
City and county governments are permitted to impose occupancy limits at bars and restaurants to as low as 50% capacity if authorities justify the purpose for public health. DeSantis’ order also removed fees and penalties for those who opt not to follow social distancing guidelines, including mask mandates.
Georgia
- Date of reopening: April 24
Staying in step with the White House, Gov. Brian Kemp was quick to reopen much of Georgia’s economy. While encouraging residents to wear masks, he was staunchly against any type of mask mandate for months. However, on Aug. 15, Kemp signed an executive order allowing many Georgia cities and counties to enforce mask requirements.
Residents are allowed to gather in groups of up to 50 people but must maintain a 6-foot distance from those outside their household. Restaurants, gyms, hair salons, movie theaters and many other businesses are able to operate, assuming they can adhere to state restrictions.
Idaho
- Date of reopening: May 1
Gov. Brad Little was quick to begin Idaho’s four-step reopening process, but the Gem State has been holding steady in its final stage for several months, opting to reevaluate every two weeks. On Oct. 15, he encouraged people to wear a mask but stopped short of issuing a statewide mask ordinance.
At present, gatherings of any size are permitted, but people must practice social distancing and proper hygiene. Businesses are open but should follow recommendations for social distancing and sanitation.
Read More: How Much Cities Are Fining People for Not Wearing Masks
Indiana
- Date of reopening: May 4
On Sept. 25, Gov. Eric Holcomb moved Indiana into Phase 5 — the final portion of the state’s reopening plan. This means restaurants, bars and clubs can open at full capacity, assuming patrons are seated and properly socially distanced. Size limits on events have also been lifted, except those with more than 500 people in attendance, which require organizers to submit a plan to the health department.
Retail stores, personal service businesses, gyms and fitness centers are also able to function at full capacity. A mask mandate was in place until Oct. 17, but it’s unclear whether it has been extended.
Iowa
- Date of reopening: May 1
In late August, Gov. Kim Reynolds temporarily shuttered bars, nightclubs, breweries and similar alcohol establishments — carryout and delivery were still offered — in six Iowa counties. However, as of early October, the closures have been lifted.
Restaurants are allowed to open, but capacity limits are in place and parties must be spaced at a 6-foot distance. Nonessential businesses — such as amusement parks, movie theaters, museums, hair salons, barbershops, gyms, retail stores and massage parlors — are also open, but are required to follow safety precautions. Gatherings of more than 10 people are also allowed, assuming proper social distancing measures are taken.
Kansas
- Date of reopening: May 4
In July, Gov. Laura Kelly issued a mask mandate requiring anyone over age 5 to wear a face covering in indoor public spaces, on public transportation or outside, when it isn’t possible to maintain a 6-foot distance from others.
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment also issued a mandate requiring residents to quarantine at home for 14 days after traveling to a state with widespread transmission. This also applies to those who traveled internationally or on a cruise ship after March 15.
Kentucky
- Date of reopening: May 20
Under Gov. Andy Beshear’s phased reopening strategy, restaurants and bars can operate at 50% capacity, with parties maintaining a 6-foot distance from one another. Last call is at 11 p.m. and they must close by midnight. Fitness centers, bowling alleys, retail stores, hair salons and movie theaters are also permitted to operate with restrictions.
Kentucky currently has a mask mandate requiring anyone over 5 years old to wear a face covering in indoor public spaces, on public transit or outdoors, when it isn’t possible to maintain adequate social distancing. Private gatherings are limited to a maximum of 10 people.
Maryland
- Date of reopening: May 15
In early September, Gov. Larry Hogan moved Maryland into its final reopening phase, allowing all businesses to open. Indoor theaters can have the smaller of 50% capacity or 100 people per auditorium. Retail stores and religious centers are limited to 75% capacity, while fitness centers and personal care businesses are restricted to 50% capacity.
Restaurants can offer dine-in service at 75% capacity, with restrictions. Maryland also has a mask mandate, requiring everyone over age 5 to wear a face covering in public spaces of all businesses and in outdoor areas where proper social distancing isn’t possible.
Michigan
- Date of reopening: June 1
While attempting to combat COVID-19 in the state, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has faced a public battle with the Michigan Supreme Court. On Oct. 9, she signed an order placing all but one region of the state in Phase 4, which comes with many restrictions.
Some include limiting indoor gatherings at residences to 10 people, reducing indoor dining capacity at restaurants and pausing indoor service at establishments that earn more than 70% of gross sales from alcohol. A mask mandate is in place for anyone over age 5, and businesses are not permitted to serve unmasked customers — with a few exceptions.
Minnesota
- Date of reopening: May 18
In July, Gov. Tim Walz issued a statewide mask mandate requiring everyone ages 5 and up to wear a face covering inside public spaces and in outdoor areas where social distancing isn’t possible. At present, gyms, movie theaters, concert halls, museums and retail stores can open at a reduced capacity. Personal care businesses can also open, but most follow safety and sanitation practices.
Restaurants can offer indoor dining at 50% capacity, but customers must make a reservation and wear masks when walking around the establishment — among other restrictions.
Mississippi
- Date of reopening: April 27
On Sept. 30, Gov. Tate Reeves relaxed restrictions on restaurants, retail stores and gyms. Bars and restaurants are only permitted to serve alcohol to seated patrons and must cease alcohol sales at 11 p.m. Most businesses must also limit patrons to 75% capacity and implement other safety precautions.
He also allowed his previous mask mandate to expire, but face coverings are still required at schools and close-contact personal care businesses. Gatherings are permitted, but if social distancing cannot be maintained, indoor get-togethers are limited to 20 people and outdoor events are capped at 100 — with certain exemptions.
Read More: Pandemic Airport Secrets Only Insiders Know
Missouri
- Date of reopening: May 4
On June 16, Gov. Mike Parson lifted all pandemic-related restrictions in Missouri. However, local officials have been given the authority to enforce rules, regulations and ordinances in their areas as they see fit.
Despite the lack of rules — including refusing to require residents to wear masks — Parson has encouraged people to practice social distancing and take precautions — i.e., maintaining good hygiene and avoiding large crowds. Worth noting, Parson tested positive for COVID-19 on Sept. 23.
Montana
- Date of reopening: April 26
All businesses in Montana have been permitted to operate since June 1, as long as certain guidelines are followed. On July 15, Gov. Steve Bullock issued a mask mandate for anyone in a county with four or more active cases of COVID-19. Under this rule, anyone ages 5 and up must wear a mask in indoor public spaces, or outdoors when part of a gathering of 50 or more people — if social distancing cannot be maintained.
Nebraska
- Date of reopening: May 4
Most of Nebraska moved into Phase 4 of reopening in September, which removed all restrictions on many businesses; but that didn’t last long. In October, Gov. Pete Ricketts reinstated restrictions due to a rise in COVID-19 cases in the state.
This included restricting indoor gatherings to 50% occupancy, limiting parties in indoor venues to a maximum of eight people and requiring bar and restaurant patrons to remain seated unless placing an order or going to the restroom. Gyms, hair salons and similar businesses can operate at 75% capacity. Outdoor events can also function at 75% capacity.
Nevada
- Date of reopening: May 9
Casinos and gaming have been open since June 4, but Gov. Steve Sisolak still has several restrictions in place. Gatherings of more than 50 people are banned, and employees are encouraged to work remotely when possible.
Bars reopened statewide in mid-September and restaurants are able to offer dine-in service, but they must practice sanitation and social distancing guidelines. Retail stores, movie theaters, bowling alleys, gyms, hair salons and most other businesses are able to operate with restrictions. Anyone over age 2 must wear a mask outside their home, including in outdoor public spaces where a 6-foot distance cannot be maintained.
New Hampshire
- Date of reopening: May 11
Most of New Hampshire has been open for business since late June, but out-of-state travelers are required to meet self-quarantine restrictions. Gov. Chris Sununu requires masks to be worn at scheduled activities where 100 people or more are gathered.
Restaurants can offer both indoor and outdoor service while following set safety guidelines. However, in early fall, Sununu eased his previous requirement that a 6-foot distance must be kept between tables. All seacoast beaches have been reopened and restrictions on activities like sunbathing and picnicking are no longer in place.
New Jersey
- Date of reopening: June 9
One of the last states to lift its stay-at-home order, Gov. Phil Murphy has reopened businesses on a rolling basis. He allowed restaurants to resume indoor dining on Sept. 4, with several restrictions in place, including a capacity limit of 25%. Movie theaters are also open at 25% or 100 people.
Indoor gatherings cannot exceed 25% of the room’s capacity. Outdoor gatherings of up to 500 people are allowed, but attendees must maintain a 6-foot distance from one another. Masks are required in indoor retail businesses and outside when social distancing cannot be practiced.
North Dakota
- Date of reopening: May 1
Gov. Doug Burgum never issued a stay-at-home order, but in October he placed 16 counties in the “high risk” category. Burgum signed an order encouraging people to follow North Dakota’s Smart Restart plan, which advises restaurants, cafes and similar food establishments to reduce capacity to 75%.
Personal care businesses — like hair salons — are asked to put sanitation measures in place. Gyms and fitness centers are expected to enforce social distancing measures in fitness classes.
Oklahoma
- Date of reopening: April 24
Gov. Kevin Stitt took a three-phase approach to reopening the state, which was completed in June. Since then, all restrictions on businesses and group gatherings have been removed as long as people keep social distancing in mind.
Workplaces are not required to limit the number of staffers on premises. Hair salons and other personal care businesses are permitted to accept walk-in clients. Businesses are expected to employ sanitation and social distancing practices. There is no statewide mask mandate, but some cities have put one in place.
Pennsylvania
- Date of reopening: May 15
Gov. Tom Wolf has faced opposition in his attempts to stop the spread of the virus. On Sept. 14, a judge ruled against business closures, as well as limits on indoor and outdoor gatherings imposed by Wolf — which he plans to appeal.
Restaurants that have self-certified can fill indoor dining rooms up to 50% capacity. Gyms, hair salons, nail salons, tattoo parlors and other close-contact businesses are able to open with restrictions. Masks are required when people from different households cannot maintain a 6-foot distance. Indoor and outdoor events are permitted, with capacity based on venue size.
South Carolina
- Date of reopening: April 20
South Carolina was one of the last states to issue a stay-at-home order and one of the first to begin reopening. On Aug. 3, Gov. Henry McMaster allowed several entertainment businesses to reopen at 50% capacity, with a mask mandate.
Restaurants are permitted to operate at 100% capacity, but customers must wear a face covering inside, except when eating and drinking. Tables must be spaced 6 feet apart and alcohol sales must cease at 11 p.m. Beaches are open, but local officials can close or restrict access if needed.
Read More: Coronavirus Could Be the End for These Struggling Chains
South Dakota
- Date of reopening: April 28
Despite outcry from local officials, Gov. Kristi Noem refused to issue a stay-at-home order. She also kept all businesses open but ordered them to follow guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Noem’s “Back to Normal” plan encourages employers to screen employees for signs of COVID-19 and sanitize high-traffic areas. It also advises businesses to promote social distancing and consider reducing capacity inside stores. Worth noting, Noem has encouraged workers and business owners frustrated by lockdowns in their state to visit South Dakota.
Tennessee
- Date of reopening: April 27
On Oct. 1, Gov. Bill Lee signed an order effectively removing many COVID-19 restrictions for businesses and gatherings in 89 of Tennessee’s 95 counties. The remaining six counties must abide by the restrictions put in place by their health departments. Anyone with COVID-19 or displaying possible symptoms of the virus is required to stay home.
Statewide, people are still encouraged to practice social distancing in the presence of nonhousehold members. If needed, local authorities are can also enforce a mask requirement.
Utah
- Date of reopening: May 1
In mid-October, Utah officials announced a statewide mask mandate at public gatherings, such as theaters, sporting events, live concerts and weddings. Other regulations vary by county, as the state uses a color-coded system to guide reopening plans. For example, some counties have no restrictions on private gatherings, but others are capped at 15 people.
Restaurants must space tables 6 feet apart. Buffets are allowed, but employees are required to hand plates to customers, among other rules.
Vermont
- Date of reopening: May 15
Restaurants and entertainment venues in Vermont are able to function at 50% of maximum occupancy. Indoor events can proceed with up to 75 people, doubling to 150 for outdoor organized events.
Anyone over 2 years old must wear a face mask in all public spaces where proper social distancing cannot be maintained. Hotels, inns, bed-and-breakfasts and other types of lodging were permitted to reopen on May 22, but out-of-state visitors must adhere to a self-quarantine mandate.
Virginia
- Date of reopening: May 15
Gov. Ralph Northam moved Virginia into Phase 3 of reopening on July 1. This means restaurants can offer indoor service at full capacity, as long as restrictions are met — including separating parties by at least 6 feet. Bar seats and congregating areas are closed for business. Movie theaters, concert venues and other entertainment areas can open, with strict guidelines in place.
Public swimming pools, gyms and fitness centers are permitted to function at 75% capacity. Social gatherings are capped at 250 people. Everyone 10 years old and up must also wear a mask in indoor public spaces.
West Virginia
- Date of reopening: May 4
Gov. Jim Justice has capped social gatherings at 25 people. Fairs, festivals and concerts are also shuttered statewide. Restaurants are able to serve customers indoors, assuming they follow set guidelines. Hair salons, gyms, museums and other businesses are also open but must follow strict safety and sanitation protocols. Bars in Monongalia County were able to open on Oct. 13, but it’s unclear if those in other counties are also open.
A statewide mask mandate has been in place since July, requiring everyone ages 9 and up to wear a face covering in indoor public spaces where social distancing cannot be maintained.
Wisconsin
- Date of reopening: May 13
On Oct. 14, a judge blocked Gov. Tony Evers’ order restricting capacity limits at businesses to 25%. However, some counties — including Madison and Milwaukee — have opted to enforce their own orders. Private businesses can also enforce their own COVID-19 restrictions.
A statewide mask mandate is currently in effect until Nov. 21. Everyone ages 5 and up must wear a mask in public indoor spaces when other people are present. While not mandated, wearing masks in outdoor public spaces is also encouraged.
Wyoming
- Date of reopening: May 1
Wyoming residents haven’t endured a stay-at-home order, but some restrictions are in place. Restaurant party size must not exceed eight people — unless all diners are from the same household — and buffet service is prohibited, among other rules.
Indoor gatherings are capped at 50 people in a confined space or 250 people with social distancing and other restrictions, although some gatherings are exempt. Outdoor venues can host gatherings of up to 1,000 people. Masks must be worn in certain settings, including barbershops and schools.
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Laura Woods
Laura Woods is a freelance writer with more than 10 years of experience. She specializes in a variety of topics, including marketing, personal finance, entertainment and lifestyle.
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Let’s be honest — 2020 is proving to be a very long year. You’ve been quarantined at home for months, and you’re eager for a change of scenery. Whether you’re well overdue for a visit with loved ones or simply crave a vacation, you’re thinking about heading out of town.
Of course, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, safety is your first priority, so you want to make sure you take every precaution when traveling. It’s also important to choose a destination without quarantine restrictions, so you don’t have to spend the bulk of your trip in isolation.
While some states are still largely locked down, others are much less restrictive with quarantine rules. When visiting the latter, you’ll still need to exercise extreme caution, but you’ll have more freedom to move about. Here’s a look at states without quarantine restrictions, to help you plan a trip that’s both safe and fun.
Alaska
- Date of reopening: April 24
Originally one of the first states to open at full capacity, Gov. Mike Dunleavy tightened restrictions for travelers entering the state in August due to a spike in cases. Visitors are now required to have a negative COVID-19 test within three days of arrival or you can get one at the airport for $250.
If you don’t want to be tested, you can also opt to self-quarantine for 14 days. In addition to these precautions, individuals from separate households are also encouraged to maintain a 6-foot distance from one another.
Florida
- Date of reopening: May 4
Gov. Ron DeSantis was quick to reopen the Sunshine State, but a surge in cases caused him to close bars in late June. However, things changed on Sept. 25 when he signed an executive order lifting all remaining statewide COVID-19 restrictions on businesses in the state — including bars and restaurants.
City and county governments are permitted to impose occupancy limits at bars and restaurants to as low as 50% capacity if authorities justify the purpose for public health. DeSantis’ order also removed fees and penalties for those who opt not to follow social distancing guidelines, including mask mandates.
Georgia
- Date of reopening: April 24
Staying in step with the White House, Gov. Brian Kemp was quick to reopen much of Georgia’s economy. While encouraging residents to wear masks, he was staunchly against any type of mask mandate for months. However, on Aug. 15, Kemp signed an executive order allowing many Georgia cities and counties to enforce mask requirements.
Residents are allowed to gather in groups of up to 50 people but must maintain a 6-foot distance from those outside their household. Restaurants, gyms, hair salons, movie theaters and many other businesses are able to operate, assuming they can adhere to state restrictions.
Idaho
- Date of reopening: May 1
Gov. Brad Little was quick to begin Idaho’s four-step reopening process, but the Gem State has been holding steady in its final stage for several months, opting to reevaluate every two weeks. On Oct. 15, he encouraged people to wear a mask but stopped short of issuing a statewide mask ordinance.
At present, gatherings of any size are permitted, but people must practice social distancing and proper hygiene. Businesses are open but should follow recommendations for social distancing and sanitation.
Read More: How Much Cities Are Fining People for Not Wearing Masks
Indiana
- Date of reopening: May 4
On Sept. 25, Gov. Eric Holcomb moved Indiana into Phase 5 — the final portion of the state’s reopening plan. This means restaurants, bars and clubs can open at full capacity, assuming patrons are seated and properly socially distanced. Size limits on events have also been lifted, except those with more than 500 people in attendance, which require organizers to submit a plan to the health department.
Retail stores, personal service businesses, gyms and fitness centers are also able to function at full capacity. A mask mandate was in place until Oct. 17, but it’s unclear whether it has been extended.
Iowa
- Date of reopening: May 1
In late August, Gov. Kim Reynolds temporarily shuttered bars, nightclubs, breweries and similar alcohol establishments — carryout and delivery were still offered — in six Iowa counties. However, as of early October, the closures have been lifted.
Restaurants are allowed to open, but capacity limits are in place and parties must be spaced at a 6-foot distance. Nonessential businesses — such as amusement parks, movie theaters, museums, hair salons, barbershops, gyms, retail stores and massage parlors — are also open, but are required to follow safety precautions. Gatherings of more than 10 people are also allowed, assuming proper social distancing measures are taken.
Kansas
- Date of reopening: May 4
In July, Gov. Laura Kelly issued a mask mandate requiring anyone over age 5 to wear a face covering in indoor public spaces, on public transportation or outside, when it isn’t possible to maintain a 6-foot distance from others.
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment also issued a mandate requiring residents to quarantine at home for 14 days after traveling to a state with widespread transmission. This also applies to those who traveled internationally or on a cruise ship after March 15.
Kentucky
- Date of reopening: May 20
Under Gov. Andy Beshear’s phased reopening strategy, restaurants and bars can operate at 50% capacity, with parties maintaining a 6-foot distance from one another. Last call is at 11 p.m. and they must close by midnight. Fitness centers, bowling alleys, retail stores, hair salons and movie theaters are also permitted to operate with restrictions.
Kentucky currently has a mask mandate requiring anyone over 5 years old to wear a face covering in indoor public spaces, on public transit or outdoors, when it isn’t possible to maintain adequate social distancing. Private gatherings are limited to a maximum of 10 people.
Maryland
- Date of reopening: May 15
In early September, Gov. Larry Hogan moved Maryland into its final reopening phase, allowing all businesses to open. Indoor theaters can have the smaller of 50% capacity or 100 people per auditorium. Retail stores and religious centers are limited to 75% capacity, while fitness centers and personal care businesses are restricted to 50% capacity.
Restaurants can offer dine-in service at 75% capacity, with restrictions. Maryland also has a mask mandate, requiring everyone over age 5 to wear a face covering in public spaces of all businesses and in outdoor areas where proper social distancing isn’t possible.
Michigan
- Date of reopening: June 1
While attempting to combat COVID-19 in the state, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has faced a public battle with the Michigan Supreme Court. On Oct. 9, she signed an order placing all but one region of the state in Phase 4, which comes with many restrictions.
Some include limiting indoor gatherings at residences to 10 people, reducing indoor dining capacity at restaurants and pausing indoor service at establishments that earn more than 70% of gross sales from alcohol. A mask mandate is in place for anyone over age 5, and businesses are not permitted to serve unmasked customers — with a few exceptions.
Minnesota
- Date of reopening: May 18
In July, Gov. Tim Walz issued a statewide mask mandate requiring everyone ages 5 and up to wear a face covering inside public spaces and in outdoor areas where social distancing isn’t possible. At present, gyms, movie theaters, concert halls, museums and retail stores can open at a reduced capacity. Personal care businesses can also open, but most follow safety and sanitation practices.
Restaurants can offer indoor dining at 50% capacity, but customers must make a reservation and wear masks when walking around the establishment — among other restrictions.
Mississippi
- Date of reopening: April 27
On Sept. 30, Gov. Tate Reeves relaxed restrictions on restaurants, retail stores and gyms. Bars and restaurants are only permitted to serve alcohol to seated patrons and must cease alcohol sales at 11 p.m. Most businesses must also limit patrons to 75% capacity and implement other safety precautions.
He also allowed his previous mask mandate to expire, but face coverings are still required at schools and close-contact personal care businesses. Gatherings are permitted, but if social distancing cannot be maintained, indoor get-togethers are limited to 20 people and outdoor events are capped at 100 — with certain exemptions.
Read More: Pandemic Airport Secrets Only Insiders Know
Missouri
- Date of reopening: May 4
On June 16, Gov. Mike Parson lifted all pandemic-related restrictions in Missouri. However, local officials have been given the authority to enforce rules, regulations and ordinances in their areas as they see fit.
Despite the lack of rules — including refusing to require residents to wear masks — Parson has encouraged people to practice social distancing and take precautions — i.e., maintaining good hygiene and avoiding large crowds. Worth noting, Parson tested positive for COVID-19 on Sept. 23.
Montana
- Date of reopening: April 26
All businesses in Montana have been permitted to operate since June 1, as long as certain guidelines are followed. On July 15, Gov. Steve Bullock issued a mask mandate for anyone in a county with four or more active cases of COVID-19. Under this rule, anyone ages 5 and up must wear a mask in indoor public spaces, or outdoors when part of a gathering of 50 or more people — if social distancing cannot be maintained.
Nebraska
- Date of reopening: May 4
Most of Nebraska moved into Phase 4 of reopening in September, which removed all restrictions on many businesses; but that didn’t last long. In October, Gov. Pete Ricketts reinstated restrictions due to a rise in COVID-19 cases in the state.
This included restricting indoor gatherings to 50% occupancy, limiting parties in indoor venues to a maximum of eight people and requiring bar and restaurant patrons to remain seated unless placing an order or going to the restroom. Gyms, hair salons and similar businesses can operate at 75% capacity. Outdoor events can also function at 75% capacity.
Nevada
- Date of reopening: May 9
Casinos and gaming have been open since June 4, but Gov. Steve Sisolak still has several restrictions in place. Gatherings of more than 50 people are banned, and employees are encouraged to work remotely when possible.
Bars reopened statewide in mid-September and restaurants are able to offer dine-in service, but they must practice sanitation and social distancing guidelines. Retail stores, movie theaters, bowling alleys, gyms, hair salons and most other businesses are able to operate with restrictions. Anyone over age 2 must wear a mask outside their home, including in outdoor public spaces where a 6-foot distance cannot be maintained.
New Hampshire
- Date of reopening: May 11
Most of New Hampshire has been open for business since late June, but out-of-state travelers are required to meet self-quarantine restrictions. Gov. Chris Sununu requires masks to be worn at scheduled activities where 100 people or more are gathered.
Restaurants can offer both indoor and outdoor service while following set safety guidelines. However, in early fall, Sununu eased his previous requirement that a 6-foot distance must be kept between tables. All seacoast beaches have been reopened and restrictions on activities like sunbathing and picnicking are no longer in place.
New Jersey
- Date of reopening: June 9
One of the last states to lift its stay-at-home order, Gov. Phil Murphy has reopened businesses on a rolling basis. He allowed restaurants to resume indoor dining on Sept. 4, with several restrictions in place, including a capacity limit of 25%. Movie theaters are also open at 25% or 100 people.
Indoor gatherings cannot exceed 25% of the room’s capacity. Outdoor gatherings of up to 500 people are allowed, but attendees must maintain a 6-foot distance from one another. Masks are required in indoor retail businesses and outside when social distancing cannot be practiced.
North Dakota
- Date of reopening: May 1
Gov. Doug Burgum never issued a stay-at-home order, but in October he placed 16 counties in the “high risk” category. Burgum signed an order encouraging people to follow North Dakota’s Smart Restart plan, which advises restaurants, cafes and similar food establishments to reduce capacity to 75%.
Personal care businesses — like hair salons — are asked to put sanitation measures in place. Gyms and fitness centers are expected to enforce social distancing measures in fitness classes.
Oklahoma
- Date of reopening: April 24
Gov. Kevin Stitt took a three-phase approach to reopening the state, which was completed in June. Since then, all restrictions on businesses and group gatherings have been removed as long as people keep social distancing in mind.
Workplaces are not required to limit the number of staffers on premises. Hair salons and other personal care businesses are permitted to accept walk-in clients. Businesses are expected to employ sanitation and social distancing practices. There is no statewide mask mandate, but some cities have put one in place.
Pennsylvania
- Date of reopening: May 15
Gov. Tom Wolf has faced opposition in his attempts to stop the spread of the virus. On Sept. 14, a judge ruled against business closures, as well as limits on indoor and outdoor gatherings imposed by Wolf — which he plans to appeal.
Restaurants that have self-certified can fill indoor dining rooms up to 50% capacity. Gyms, hair salons, nail salons, tattoo parlors and other close-contact businesses are able to open with restrictions. Masks are required when people from different households cannot maintain a 6-foot distance. Indoor and outdoor events are permitted, with capacity based on venue size.
South Carolina
- Date of reopening: April 20
South Carolina was one of the last states to issue a stay-at-home order and one of the first to begin reopening. On Aug. 3, Gov. Henry McMaster allowed several entertainment businesses to reopen at 50% capacity, with a mask mandate.
Restaurants are permitted to operate at 100% capacity, but customers must wear a face covering inside, except when eating and drinking. Tables must be spaced 6 feet apart and alcohol sales must cease at 11 p.m. Beaches are open, but local officials can close or restrict access if needed.
Read More: Coronavirus Could Be the End for These Struggling Chains
South Dakota
- Date of reopening: April 28
Despite outcry from local officials, Gov. Kristi Noem refused to issue a stay-at-home order. She also kept all businesses open but ordered them to follow guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Noem’s “Back to Normal” plan encourages employers to screen employees for signs of COVID-19 and sanitize high-traffic areas. It also advises businesses to promote social distancing and consider reducing capacity inside stores. Worth noting, Noem has encouraged workers and business owners frustrated by lockdowns in their state to visit South Dakota.
Tennessee
- Date of reopening: April 27
On Oct. 1, Gov. Bill Lee signed an order effectively removing many COVID-19 restrictions for businesses and gatherings in 89 of Tennessee’s 95 counties. The remaining six counties must abide by the restrictions put in place by their health departments. Anyone with COVID-19 or displaying possible symptoms of the virus is required to stay home.
Statewide, people are still encouraged to practice social distancing in the presence of nonhousehold members. If needed, local authorities are can also enforce a mask requirement.
Utah
- Date of reopening: May 1
In mid-October, Utah officials announced a statewide mask mandate at public gatherings, such as theaters, sporting events, live concerts and weddings. Other regulations vary by county, as the state uses a color-coded system to guide reopening plans. For example, some counties have no restrictions on private gatherings, but others are capped at 15 people.
Restaurants must space tables 6 feet apart. Buffets are allowed, but employees are required to hand plates to customers, among other rules.
Vermont
- Date of reopening: May 15
Restaurants and entertainment venues in Vermont are able to function at 50% of maximum occupancy. Indoor events can proceed with up to 75 people, doubling to 150 for outdoor organized events.
Anyone over 2 years old must wear a face mask in all public spaces where proper social distancing cannot be maintained. Hotels, inns, bed-and-breakfasts and other types of lodging were permitted to reopen on May 22, but out-of-state visitors must adhere to a self-quarantine mandate.
Virginia
- Date of reopening: May 15
Gov. Ralph Northam moved Virginia into Phase 3 of reopening on July 1. This means restaurants can offer indoor service at full capacity, as long as restrictions are met — including separating parties by at least 6 feet. Bar seats and congregating areas are closed for business. Movie theaters, concert venues and other entertainment areas can open, with strict guidelines in place.
Public swimming pools, gyms and fitness centers are permitted to function at 75% capacity. Social gatherings are capped at 250 people. Everyone 10 years old and up must also wear a mask in indoor public spaces.
West Virginia
- Date of reopening: May 4
Gov. Jim Justice has capped social gatherings at 25 people. Fairs, festivals and concerts are also shuttered statewide. Restaurants are able to serve customers indoors, assuming they follow set guidelines. Hair salons, gyms, museums and other businesses are also open but must follow strict safety and sanitation protocols. Bars in Monongalia County were able to open on Oct. 13, but it’s unclear if those in other counties are also open.
A statewide mask mandate has been in place since July, requiring everyone ages 9 and up to wear a face covering in indoor public spaces where social distancing cannot be maintained.
Wisconsin
- Date of reopening: May 13
On Oct. 14, a judge blocked Gov. Tony Evers’ order restricting capacity limits at businesses to 25%. However, some counties — including Madison and Milwaukee — have opted to enforce their own orders. Private businesses can also enforce their own COVID-19 restrictions.
A statewide mask mandate is currently in effect until Nov. 21. Everyone ages 5 and up must wear a mask in public indoor spaces when other people are present. While not mandated, wearing masks in outdoor public spaces is also encouraged.
Wyoming
- Date of reopening: May 1
Wyoming residents haven’t endured a stay-at-home order, but some restrictions are in place. Restaurant party size must not exceed eight people — unless all diners are from the same household — and buffet service is prohibited, among other rules.
Indoor gatherings are capped at 50 people in a confined space or 250 people with social distancing and other restrictions, although some gatherings are exempt. Outdoor venues can host gatherings of up to 1,000 people. Masks must be worn in certain settings, including barbershops and schools.
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Laura Woods
Laura Woods is a freelance writer with more than 10 years of experience. She specializes in a variety of topics, including marketing, personal finance, entertainment and lifestyle.
Her work has been featured on dozens of sites, including HuffPost, CNBC, Business Insider, Nasdaq, MSN, Yahoo, Fortune, Inc., Entrepreneur and POPSUGAR. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from the University of Pittsburgh and an MBA from Robert Morris University.
