Missouri: State-by-State COVID-19 Guidance

Please note: As of April 15, 2021 we are no longer doing regularly scheduled updates to this page.

April 8, 2021:

(St. Louis County): St. Louis County Department of Public Health issued its Fifth Amended Safer at Home Order to take effect on April 9, 2021, rescinding and replacing the March 8, 2021 Order. Under this amended Order:

• People may not leave their residences except for specific reasons, which explicitly do not include social gatherings unless with family or those that are part of their support bubble.
• Gatherings are limited to 20 people indoors and 30 outdoors.
• Businesses with occupancy limits must:
  • Limit occupancy to 50% of that authorized;
  • Provide employees with face coverings or materials to make face coverings; and
  • Comply with social distancing requirements, disinfection processes, and other related guidance.
• Restaurants and drinking establishments must:
  • Limit occupancy to 50% of that authorized;
  • Limit seating for individual groups to ensure a distance of 6 feet;
  • Require customers to wear face coverings when interacting with employees;
  • Provide employees with face coverings or materials to make face coverings; and
  • Require customers to remain seated.
• Banquet facilities, hotel conference rooms, and related facilities must:
  • Limit occupancy to 25% of that authorized;
  • Serve all drinks and food at tables;
  • Allow only groups of 10 or less;
  • Require customers to wear face coverings when interacting with employees;
  • Require customers to remain seated;
  • Provide employees with face coverings or materials to make face coverings; and
  • Comply with social distancing requirements, disinfection processes, and other related guidance.
• Businesses kept closed as a result of COVID-19 may continue to operate the necessary activities to maintain the value of inventory, provide security, process payroll or employee benefits, and facilitate remote work.

Business plans submitted under the previous DPH Order that have not been resubmitted since November 17, 2020 are revoked and must be resubmitted.

(Jackson County): Jackson County issued an amended Order that will take effect at 12:01 a.m. on April 9, 2021 and continue until rescinded or amended in writing. Under this order, certain restrictions on Eastern Jackson County are re-imposed, including:

• Masks must be worn unless exempted;
• Businesses must adhere to social distancing requirements;
• Restaurants, taverns, and venues for food and drink must require indoor patrons to be seated and wearing a mask unless actively eating or drinking; and
• Capacity limitations for all businesses have been lifted.

March 25, 2021:

(Boone County & The City of Columbia): Boone County issued Order No. 2020-21C, and the City of Columbia issued Order No. 2020-21 on March 22, 2021. Both orders took effect at 12:00 p.m. on March 24, 2021 and will expire on April 14, 2021. Under these new orders:

• Face masks are generally required when not able to maintain six feet of distance from individuals who are not part of that person’s household.
• Businesses must continue to adhere to social distancing and regular disinfecting.
• Restaurants that serve alcohol and bars that serve alcohol must:
  • Observe social distancing between tables;
  • Require customers to wear a mask when not seated; and
  • Require customers to remain seated when not entering, exiting, or vising the restroom, bar, or buffet.
• Entertainment venues must:
  • Limit their capacity to allow for social distancing;
  • Require food and beverages to be consumed while seated;
  • Maintain social distancing between tables; and
  • Require patrons to wear a mask when not seated.
• Child care services must:
  • Maintain stable groups;
  • Keep groups separate and in different rooms;
  • Keep the same provider with the same group of children; and
  • Limit groups to 50 children.

March 18, 2021:

(Cole County & Jefferson City): Cole County and Jefferson City issued COVID-19 Guidance on March 16, 2021, stating that the city and county will no longer be in an “advisory status.” While no longer required, the county and city are still recommending the following:

• Staying home if sick;
• Physical distancing from others outside of a person’s household;
• Wearing a face covering if in prolonged close contact with somebody outside the person’s household;
• Physical distancing within office buildings and continuing to telecommute;
• Hosting gatherings in a safe manner; and
• Continuing to offer and utilize low contact shopping methods.

March 15, 2021:

The Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services issued an order on March 12, 2021, effective immediately and until December 31, 2021. Under this order, both the January 14 and March 4 orders regarding the distribution of vaccines are rescinded. Further, individuals administering the COVID-19 vaccine are now directed to administer them to individuals whose status or condition warrant it, including those in Phase 1A and Phase 1B Tier 1 and Tier 2. The COVID-19 Vaccine Availability list can be found here.

(St. Louis County): The St. Louis County Department of Public Health issued its 5th amended quarantine and isolation Order on March 15, 2021, which took effect at 6:00 a.m. on March 15, 2021, replacing the February 16 order. Under this Order:

• People are required to self-isolate if they develop COVID-19 symptoms.
• People shall quarantine if they:
  • Came in close contact with a positive person, even if they have a negative result; or
  • Know they have been exposed to COVID-19.
• People who were vaccinated but are exposed to COVID-19 must also self-isolate unless:
  • It has been 14 days since the final dose of the vaccine;
  • Vaccination occurred within 3 months of the exposure; and
  • The person remains asymptomatic.
• Individuals who were confirmed to have had COVID-19 are considered naturally immune and do not have to self-isolate if the exposure occurs within 90 days of having had COVID-19.
• People who are tested, but did not come in close contact with a positive person, do not have to quarantine while awaiting test results.
• People who test positive for COVID-19 must remain in isolation until cleared in writing by the Department of Public Health, typically for 10 to 14 days.

March 11, 2021:

(St. Louis City): St. Louis City issued Health Commissioner Order No. 16, which took effect immediately on January 8, 2021, and will remain in effect until rescinded or amended. Certain previous orders, including Order No. 13 and Order No. 14, remain in effect. Bars, restaurants, and nightclubs are now permitted to remain open until 12:00 a.m.

March 8, 2021:

On March 4, 2021, the Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services ordered that phase 2 of the January 14, 2021 vaccine order will now include the staff of public, private, and nonprofit libraries. The COVID-19 Vaccine Availability list can be found here.

(St. Louis County): The St. Louis County Department of Public Health (“DPH”) issued its Fourth Amended Safer at Home Order on March 8, 2021, which took effect immediately, rescinding and replacing the February 9, 2021 Order. Under this amended order:

• People may not leave their residences except for specific reasons (which explicitly excludes social gatherings unless with family or support bubble members).
• Gatherings are limited to 20 people indoors and 30 people outdoors.
• Businesses with occupancy limits must:
  • Limit occupancy to 50% of that authorized;
  • Provide employees face coverings or materials to make face coverings; and
  • Comply with social distancing requirements, disinfection processes, and other related guidance.
• Restaurants and drinking establishments must:
  • Limit occupancy to 50% of that authorized;
  • Limit seating for individual groups to ensure a distance of six feet;
  • Close indoor and outdoor service by 12:00 a.m., except for carry-out and delivery;
  • Require customers to wear face coverings when interacting with employees;
  • Provide employees face coverings or materials to make face coverings; and
  • Require customers to remain seated.
• Banquet facilities, hotel conference rooms, and similar facilities must:
  • Limit occupancy to 25% of that authorized;
  • Serve all drinks and food at tables;
  • Only allow groups of 10 people or less;
  • End service by 12:00 a.m.;
  • Require customers to wear face coverings when interacting with employees;
  • Require customers to remain seated;
  • Provide employees face coverings or materials to make face coverings; and
  • Comply with social distancing requirements, disinfection processes, and other related guidance.
• Businesses kept closed as a result of COVID-19 may continue activities necessary to maintain the value of inventory, provide security, process payroll or employee benefits, and facilitate remote work.
• Business plans submitted under the previous DPH Order that have not been resubmitted since November 17, 2020, are revoked and must be resubmitted.

March 1, 2021:

(Jackson County): Jackson County issued an amended Order on February 26, 2021, which took effect at 12:01 a.m. on February 26, 2021 and will continue until rescinded or amended in writing. Under this Order, restrictions on Eastern Jackson County have been re-imposed, including:

• Masks must be worn unless exempted;
• Businesses frequented by the public must limit occupancy to 50%;
• Restaurants, taverns, and venues for food and drink, must:
  • Limit occupancy to 50%;
  • Require indoor patrons to be seated and wearing masks unless actively eating or drinking; and
  • Limit parties to 10 or fewer persons.
• Gyms and fitness centers must limit their occupancy to 50% and require masks; and
• Gatherings of more than 50 people are prohibited unless prior approval through Jackson County is obtained and all attendees wear face coverings.

(Boone County & The City of Columbia): On March 1, 2021, Boone County issued Order No. 2020-20C, and the City of Columbia issued Order No. 2020-20. Both Orders take effect at 12:00 p.m. on March 4, 2021 and will expire on March 24, 2021. Under these new Orders:

• Face masks are generally required when it is not possible to maintain six feet of distance from individuals in separate households.
• Businesses must continue to adhere to social distancing and regular disinfecting.
• Gatherings held at a business open to the public must be limited to 50% capacity, or a maximum of 200 people.
• Bars and restaurants that serve alcohol must:
  • Limit groups to 10 persons;
  • Observe social distancing between tables;
  • Require customers to wear masks when not seated; and
  • Require customers to remain seated when not entering, exiting, or visiting the restroom, bar, or buffet.
• Entertainment venues must:
  • Limit capacity to 200 people;
  • Require food and beverages be consumed while seated;
  • Limited tables to 10 persons;
  • Maintain social distancing between tables; and
  • Require patrons to wear a mask when not seated.
• Childcare services must:
  • Maintain stable groups (prohibit children from switching from one group to another);
  • Keep groups separate and in different rooms;
  • Keep the same provider with the same group of children; and
  • Limit groups to 50 children.

February 22, 2021:

(St. Louis County): The St. Louis County Department of Public Health (“DPH”) issued its 4th Amended Quarantine and Isolation Order, which took effect at 6:00 a.m. on February 17, 2021, and will remain in effect until rescinded or amended. Under this amended Order:

• People shall notify the health department if exposed to COVID-19;
• People are required to self-isolate if they develop COVID-19 symptoms;
• People shall quarantine if they came in close contact with a positive person, even if they have a negative result;
• People who were vaccinated but are exposed to COVID-19 must also self-isolate unless:
  • It has been 14 days since the final dose of the vaccine;
  • Vaccination occurred within 3 months of the exposure; and
  • The person remained asymptomatic.
• Individuals who were confirmed to have had COVID-19 are considered naturally immune and do not have to self-isolate if the exposure occurs within 90 days of contracting COVID-19;
• People who have been tested, but did not come in close contact with a positive person, do not have to quarantine while awaiting test results;
• If the DPH identifies a person as having had close contact with a positive person, the person is required to quarantine for 14 days or until cleared by the DPH; and
• People who test positive for COVID-19 must remain in isolation until cleared in writing by DPH (which typically takes between 10 to 14 days).

(Kansas City): Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas issued the Thirteenth Amended Order 20-01, rescinding the Twelfth Amended Order 20-01, which took effect on February 19, 2021, and expires with the Fifth Amended Emergency Proclamation unless rescinded or amended. Under this Order:

• Employers are required to reasonably accommodate employees with health or safety concerns or responsibility for minors or other persons by not requiring they report to work in certain situations.
• Restaurants, taverns, and other venues must follow social distancing requirements.
• Masks must be work in all indoor spaces when more than one person is in a room not separated by a barrier, unless exempted.
• Gyms and fitness centers must follow social distancing requirements.
• Businesses generally open to the public where social distancing cannot be maintained must maintain six feet of separation between areas of service.

(Platte County): Platte County recently issued an amended Order, which took effect on February 22, 2021, and will remain in effect until further notice. Under the Order, masks continue to be required in all indoor and outdoor locations, settings, and events where individuals are less than six feet away from each other. Additionally:

• Masks must be worn in all indoor spaces when more than one person is in a room not separated by a barrier, unless exempted.
• Restaurants, taverns, and other venues for food and drink must:
  • Ensure adequate distance between separate parties;
  • Require indoor and outdoor patrons be seated and wearing a mask unless actively eating or drinking; and
  • Limit parties to 10 or fewer persons.
• Gyms and fitness centers must require all patrons to wear masks indoors and maintain social distancing.
• Businesses generally open to the public must maintain six feet of distance between areas of service.

(Clay County): Clay County issued Public Health Emergency Order 02212021, which took effect at 5:00 p.m. on February 21, 2021, and will remain in effect until further notice. Under this Order, masks continue to be required for employees and visitors while indoors and unable to maintain social distancing. Additionally:

• Restaurants, taverns, and other venues for food and drink, must:
  • Ensure adequate distance between separate parties; and
  • Require indoor and outdoor patrons be seated and wearing a mask unless actively eating or drinking.
• Masks must be worn in all indoor spaces when more than one person is in a room not separated by a barrier, unless exempted.
• Gyms and fitness centers must require all patrons to wear masks indoors and maintain social distancing.
• Businesses generally open to the public must maintain six feet of distance between areas of service.

February 18, 2021:

As of February 9, 2021, per amendments to standing orders issued by the Missouri Director of the Department of Health and Senior Services, retired healthcare providers and healthcare providers licensed in other states are authorized to administer COVID-19 vaccinations in the state of Missouri.

February 10, 2021:

(St. Louis County): The St. Louis County Department of Public Health issued its Third Amended Safer at Home Order, which takes effect at 12:01 a.m. on February 11, 2021, rescinding and replacing the January 29, 2021 Order and remaining in effect until rescinded or amended. Under the amended Order, all previous restrictions and the curfew remain in effect, except businesses with capacity limits (including restaurants, drinking establishments, banquet facilities, and hotel conference rooms) must limit occupancy to 50% of that authorized.

(City of Columbia): The City of Columbia issued Order No. 2020-19 extending phase two, step three of its reopening plans until 11:59 p.m. on March 4, 2021. Additionally, the order modifies certain prior provisions by requiring:

• Bars and restaurants that serve alcohol to close no later than midnight, including curb-side and delivery (but excluding restaurants that do not serve alcohol).
• Entertainment venues to close no later than midnight.

(Boone County): Boone County issued Order No. 2020-19C, which takes effect at 12:00 p.m. on February 12, 2021 and remains in effect until 11:59 p.m. on March 4, 2021, superseding and replacing all previous orders. Under this order:

• Businesses must continue to adhere to social distancing and regular disinfecting.
• Gatherings held at businesses open to the public must be limited to 50% of their capacity, or a maximum of 100 people.
• Bars and restaurants that serve alcohol to close no later than midnight, including curb-side and delivery (but excluding restaurants that do not serve alcohol).
• All restaurants and bars are permitted to operate without occupancy limits provided that:
  • Groups are limited to 10 persons;
  • Social distancing between tables is observed;
  • Standing bars or buffets are not utilized;
  • Customers must wear a mask when not seated; and
  • Customers must remain seated when not entering, exiting, or vising the restroom.
• Entertainment venues must adhere to the following restrictions:
  • Limit their capacity to 100 people;
  • Food and beverages must be consumed while seated;
  • Tables must be limited to 10 persons per table;
  • Social distancing between tables must be maintained;
  • Patrons must wear a mask when not seated; and
  • Close by midnight.
• Child care services must:
  • Maintain stable groups;
  • Keep groups separate and in different rooms;
  • Keep the same provider with the same group of children; and
  • Limit groups to 50 children.
• Personal care services are limited to 50% capacity or 50 people, whichever is fewer.
• Pools must limit their capacity to 50 people with social distancing.

February 1, 2021:

(St. Louis County): The St. Louis County Department of Public Health (“DPH”) recently issued its Second Amended Safer at Home Order, which took effect at 6:00 a.m. on February 1, 2021. The Order, rescinding and replacing the December 30, 2020 Order, will remain in effect until rescinded or amended.

• Under the amended order, people may not leave their residences for social gatherings unless with family or those that are part of their support bubble. People may not leave their residences except for the following reasons:
  • Work and volunteering (if they cannot do so from home);
  • Shopping and obtaining food or drink items;
  • Visiting others in their support bubble;
  • Accessing financial services or other public services;
  • Medical reasons;
  • Education and training;
  • Childcare services; and
  • Worship, funerals, or related services.
• In addition, gatherings may not be larger than 10 people, unless otherwise permitted.
• Businesses with occupancy limits must:
  • Limit occupancy to 25 percent of that authorized;
  • Provide employees with face coverings or materials to make face coverings; and
  • Comply with social distancing requirements, disinfection processes and other related guidance.
• Restaurants and drinking establishments must:
  • Limit occupancy to 25 percent of that authorized;
  • Limit seating for individual groups to ensure a distance of 6 feet between patrons;
  • Close indoor and outdoor service by 11:00 p.m., except for carry-out and delivery orders;
  • Require customers to wear face coverings when interacting with employees;
  • Provide employees with face coverings or materials to make face coverings, and
  • Comply with social distancing requirements, disinfection processes and other related guidance.
• Banquet facilities and hotel conference facilities must:
  • Limit occupancy to 25 percent of that authorized, or 50 people or less if that authorized would allow 200 or more individuals;
  • Serve all drinks and food at tables;
  • Allow only groups of 10 or less;
  • End service by 11:00 p.m.;
  • Require customers to wear face coverings when interacting with employees;
  • Require customers to remain seated; and
  • Provide employees with face coverings or materials to make face coverings; and
  • Comply with social distancing requirements, disinfection processes and other related guidance.

Businesses kept closed as a result of COVID-19 may continue to operate necessary activities to maintain the value of inventory, provide security, process payroll or employee benefits, and facilitate remote work. Business plans submitted prior to November 17, 2020 under the previous DPH Order that have not been resubmitted since November 17, 2020, are considered revoked and must be resubmitted.

January 19, 2021:

(Statewide): The Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services ordered on January 14, 2021, vaccines be administered to individuals whose status or condition warrant it, including those in Phase 1A, and Tier 1 of Phase 1B, for the time being, and includes the fully defined categories of phases. This order will remain in effect until December 31, 2021, unless otherwise modified. The COVID-19 Vaccine Availability list can be found here. Those in Phase 1A include healthcare workers and long-term care facility residents and staff. Tier 1 of Phase 1 B includes first responders & those working in emergency services.

(Kansas City): Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas issued a Twelfth Amended Order 20-01, amending the Eleventh Amended Order 20-01, and took effect on January 13, 2021, and expires with the Fifth Amended Emergency Proclamation unless rescinded or amended. Under this order:

• Employers are required to reasonably accommodate employees with health or safety concerns, responsibility for minors or others, and not require they report to work in certain situations.
• Restaurants, taverns, and venues, must:
  • Limit occupancy to 50% of their capacity,
  • Close by 12:00 a.m. (midnight),
  • Require mask be work indoors and outdoors while standing or sitting unless actively eating or drinking, and
  • Limit parties to 10 or fewer persons.
• Masks must be work in all indoor spaces when more than one person is in a room not separated by a barrier unless exempted.
• Businesses shall
  • Ensure access to handwashing facilities, hand sanitizer, and cleaning supplies,
  • Provide regular sanitation of high touch areas,
  • Post signage of hygiene and safety protocols,
  • Avoid sharing equipment and supplies, and
  • Maintain records of occupants who are on the premises for more than 10 minutes and notify the Director of Public Health of a positive case.
• Gyms and fitness centers must limit their occupancy to 50% of their capacity and must require masks.
• Gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited, which does not include groups from the same household, unless approved by the Director of Public Health.

(Jackson County): Jackson County issued an amended Order, which took effect on January 14, 2021, and will continue until rescinded or amended in writing. Under this order, certain restrictions on Eastern Jackson County are re-imposed, including:

• Masks must be worn unless exempted.
• Businesses frequented by the public must limit occupancy to 50% of their capacity,
• Restaurants, taverns, and venues for food and drink, must:
  • Limit occupancy to 50% of their capacity,
  • Close by 12:00 a.m. (midnight),
  • Require indoor patrons to be seated and wearing a mask unless actively eating or drinking, and
  • Limit parties to 10 or fewer persons.
• Gyms and fitness centers must limit their occupancy to 50% of their capacity and must require masks.
• Gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited, which does not include groups from the same household, unless approved by the Director of Public Health.

(Platte County): Platte County issued an amended Order, which took effect on January 16, 2021, and will remain in effect until further notice. Under this order masks continue to be required in all indoor and outdoor locations, settings and events where individuals are less than six feet away from each other. Additionally:

• Restaurants, taverns, and other venues for food and drink, must:
  • Limit occupancy to 50% of that authorized,
  • Close by 12:00 a.m. (midnight),
  • Require indoor and outdoor patrons be seated and wearing a mask unless actively eating or drinking, and
  • Limit parties to 10 or fewer persons.
• Masks must be work in all indoor spaces when more than one person is in a room not separated by a barrier unless exempted.
• Businesses shall maintain records of occupants who are on the premises for more than 10 minutes and notify the Director of Public Health of a positive case.
• Gyms and fitness centers must limit their occupancy to 50% of their capacity and must require masks.
• Businesses generally open to the public must maintain six feet of distance between areas of service.
• Gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited, which does not include groups from the same household, unless approved by the Director of Public Health.

(Clay County): Clay County issued a Public Health Emergency Order on January 13, 2021, which took effect on January 14, 2021. Under this new order restaurants, taverns and other venues serving food and drink will be permitted to remain open until 12.00 a.m. (midnight), but must continue to follow the previous restrictions contained in Order 11172020.

(City of Columbia): The City of Columbia issued Order No. 2020-18 extending phase two, step three, of its reopening plans until February 16, 2021, at 11:59 p.m., under Order No. 2020-11. Under the current phase:

• Face masks are required when social distancing cannot be maintained and when not exempt
• Restaurants and bars:
  • Must close by 10:30 p.m., but may continue curb-side and off-premise delivery of food,
  • Are limited to ten persons per table,
  • May not utilize standing bars or buffets, and
  • Customers must wear a mask when not seated
• Large venues and entertainment facilities must submit an operational plan and are limited to 100 people
• Child care services may not have groups larger than 50 children
• Personal care services are limited to 50% capacity or 50 people, whichever is fewer
• Pools must limit their capacity to 50 people with social distancing.

(Boone County): Boone County issued Order No. 2020-18C, which takes effect at 12:00 a.m. on January 19, 2021, and remains in effect until 11:59 p.m. February 16, 2021. Under this order:

• Businesses must continue to adhere to social distancing and regular disinfecting,
• Gatherings held at a business open to the public must be limited to 50% of their capacity, or a maximum of 100 people,
• Restaurants and bars that serve alcohol must close by 10:30 p.m., but may continue curb-side and off-premise delivery of food,
• Restaurants that don’t serve alcohol are not required to close at 10:30 p.m.,
• All restaurants and bars are permitted to operate without occupancy limits provided that:
  • Groups are limited to 10 persons,
  • Social distancing between tables is observed,
  • Standing bars or buffets are not utilized,
  • Customers must wear a mask when not seated, and
  • Customers must remain seated when not entering, exiting, or vising the restroom,
• Entertainment venues must:
  • Limit their capacity to 100 people,
  • Food and beverages must be consumed while seated,
  • Tables must be limited to 10 persons per table,
  • Social distancing between tables must be maintained,
  • Patrons must wear a mask when not seated, and
  • Close by 10:30 p.m.
• Child care services must:
  • Maintain stable groups, no changing from one group to another,
  • Keep groups separate and in different rooms,
  • Keep the same provider with the same group of children, and
  • Limit groups to 50 children.
• Personal care services are limited to 50% capacity or 50 people, whichever is fewer
• Pools must limit their capacity to 50 people with social distancing.

January 6, 2021:

The Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services published the COVID-19 Vaccine Availability list, specifying the order in Missouri that the vaccine is to be distributed. Under the current plan, the vaccine will be rolled out under the following phases:

• Phase1A
  • Healthcare Workers & Long-term Care Facility Residents and Staff
• Phase1B
  • High Risk Populations & Essential Workers
• Phase2
  • Populations at Increased Risk (Prisoners, Homeless, etc.)
• Phase3
  • All Missouri Residents

The current category of essential workers includes: First Responders, Childcare Workers, Teachers & Education Staff, Water/Wastewater Workers, Energy Workers, Critical Manufacturing Workers, and Food & Agriculture Workers.

(St. Louis County): The St. Louis County Department of Public Health announced that it received 975 doses of the Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine on January 5, 2021. DPH is currently scheduling individuals who are in the 1a category to receive the vaccines.

January 4, 2021:

(St. Louis County): St. Louis County Department of Public Health (“DPH”) issued an Amended Safer at Home Order, which took effect at 6 a.m. on January 4, 2021, rescinding and replacing the November 12, 2020 Order, and will remain in effect until rescinded or amended. Under this amended order:

• People may not leave their residences except for:
  • Work and volunteering if they cannot do so from home,
  • Shopping and receiving items of food or drink,
  • Visiting others in their support bubble,
  • Accessing financial services or other public services,
  • Medical reasons,
  • Education and training,
  • Childcare services, and
  • Worship, funerals, or related services.
• People may not leave their residences for social gatherings unless with family or those that are part of their support bubble.
• Gatherings may not be more than 10 people, unless permitted otherwise
• Businesses with occupancy limits must:
  • Limit occupancy to 25% of that authorized,
  • Provide employees with face coverings or materials to make face coverings, and
  • Comply with social distancing requirements, disinfection processes and other related guidance.
• Restaurants and drinking establishments may resume indoor dining, but must
  • Limit occupancy to 25% of that authorized,
  • Limit seating for individual groups to ensure a distance of 6 ft,
  • Must close indoor and outdoor service by 10:00 p.m., except for carry-out and delivery,
  • Require customers to wear face coverings when interacting with employees,
  • Provide employees with face coverings or materials to make face coverings, and
  • Comply with social distancing requirements, disinfection processes and other related guidance.
• Banquet facilities, hotel conference rooms and facilities must:
  • Limit occupancy to 25% of that authorized, or 50 people or less if that authorized would allow 200 or more individuals,
  • Serve all drinks and food at tables,
  • Allow only groups of 10 or less,
  • End service by 10:00 p.m.,
  • Require customers to wear face coverings when interacting with employees,
  • Provide employees with face coverings or materials to make face coverings, and
  • Comply with social distancing requirements, disinfection processes and other related guidance.
• Businesses kept closed as a result of COVID-19 may continue to operate the necessary activities to maintain the value of inventory, provide security, process payroll, or employee benefits, and facilitate remote work.
• Business plans submitted under the previous DPH Order that have not been resubmitted since November 17, 2020, are revoked and must be resubmitted.

December 29, 2020:

(St. Louis City): The St. Louis City Department of Health issued new guidance for those who must Self-Isolate and those who must Self-Quarantine. Self-isolation guidance is for those who have tested positive or have a loved one that tested positive. Self-quarantine guidance is for those or their loved ones that have been identified as having had close contact with someone who tested positive or is awaiting a test result.

December 21, 2020:

(Boone County): Boone County issued Order No. 2020-17C, which takes effect at 12:00 a.m. on December 22, 2020, rescinding all previous orders, and remains in effect until January 19, 2021, at 11:59 p.m. Under this new order:

• Businesses must continue to adhere to social distancing and regular disinfecting,
• Gatherings held at a business open to the public must be limited to 50% of their capacity, or a maximum of 100 people,
• Restaurants and bars that serve alcohol must close by 10:30 p.m., but may continue curb-side and off-premise delivery of food,
• Restaurants that don’t serve alcohol are not required to close at 10:30 p.m.,
• All restaurants and bars are permitted to operate without occupancy limits provided that:
  • Groups are limited to 10 persons,
  • Social distancing between tables is observed,
  • Standing bars or buffets are not utilized,
  • Customers must wear a mask when not seated, and
  • Customers must remain seated when not entering, exiting, or vising the restroom,
• Entertainment venues must:
  • Limit their capacity to 100 people,
  • Food and beverages must be consumed while seated,
  • Tables must be limited to 10 persons per table,
  • Social distancing between tables must be maintained,
  • Patrons must wear a mask when not seated, and
  • Close by 10:30 p.m.
• Childcare services must:
  • Maintain stable groups, no changing from one group to another,
  • Keep groups separate and in different rooms,
  • Keep the same provider with the same group of children, and
  • Limit groups to 50 children.
• Personal care services are limited to 50% capacity or 50 people, whichever is fewer
• Pools must limit their capacity to 50 people with social distancing.

(City of Columbia): The City of Columbia issued Order No. 2020-17 extending phase two, step three, of its reopening plans until January 19, 2021, at 11:59 p.m., under Order No. 2020-11. Under the current phase:

• Face masks are required when social distancing cannot be maintained and when not exempt
• Restaurants and bars:
  • Must close by 10:30 p.m., but may continue curb-side and off-premise delivery of food,
  • Are limited to ten persons per table,
  • May not utilize standing bars or buffets, and
  • Customers must wear a mask when not seated
• Large venues and entertainment facilities must submit an operational plan and are limited to 100 people
• Childcare services may not have groups larger than 50 children
• Personal care services are limited to 50% capacity or 50 people, whichever is fewer
• Pools must limit their capacity to 50 people with social distancing.

December 10, 2020:

(Platte County): The Platte County Health Department announced that it continues to recommend the 14-day quarantine guidelines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, the Health Department now notes that quarantine can end after day 10 if the person has no symptoms. The Health Department stated that it does not support the test out option at this time.

December 8, 2020:

(St. Louis City/St. Louis County): The St. Louis City Department of Health and the St. Louis County Department of Public Health announced that each will continue using the 14-day quarantine guidelines, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Additionally, both departments recommend that those in close contact with a COVID-19 positive person wait 5 days before getting tested.

(Clay County): The Clay County Public Health center announced that it will continue to recommend the 14-day quarantine guidelines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, the Public Health Center noted that quarantine can end after day 7 if the person has a negative test and has no symptoms.

(City of Columbia): The City of Columbia issued Order No. 2020-16 extending phase two, step three, of its reopening plans until December 22, 2020, at 11:59 p.m., under Order No. 2020-11. Under the current phase:

• Face masks are required when social distancing cannot be maintained and when not exempt
• Restaurants and bars:
  • Must close by 10:30 p.m., but may continue curb-side and off-premise delivery of food,
  • Are limited to ten persons per table,
  • May not utilize standing bars or buffets, and
  • Customers must wear a mask when not seated
• Large venues and entertainment facilities must submit an operational plan and are limited to 100 people
• Childcare services may not have groups larger than 50 children
• Personal care services are limited to 50% capacity or 50 people, whichever is fewer
• Pools must limit their capacity to 50 people with social distancing.

(Boone County): Boone County issued Order No. 2020-16C, which took effect at 12:00 a.m. on December 8, 2020, rescinding all previous orders, and remains in effect until December 22, 2020, at 11:59 p.m. Under this new order:

• Businesses must continue to adhere to social distancing and regular disinfecting,
• Gatherings held at a business open to the public must be limited to 50% of their capacity, or a maximum of 100 people,
• Restaurants and bars that serve alcohol must close by 10:30 p.m., but may continue curb-side and off-premise delivery of food,
• Restaurants that do not serve alcohol are not required to close at 10:30 p.m.,
• All restaurants and bars are permitted to operate without occupancy limits provided that:
  • Groups are limited to 10 persons,
  • Social distancing between tables is observed,
  • Standing bars or buffets are not utilized, and
  • Customers must wear a mask when not seated
• Entertainment venues must:
  • Limit their capacity to 100 people,
  • Food and beverages must be consumed while seated,
  • Tables must be limited to 10 persons per table,
  • Social distancing between tables must be maintained,
  • Patrons must wear a mask when not seated, and
  • Close by 10:30 p.m.
• Childcare services must:
  • Maintain stable groups, no changing from one group to another,
  • Keep groups separate and in different rooms,
  • Keep the same provider with the same group of children, and
  • Limit groups to 50 children.
• Personal care services are limited to 50% capacity or 50 people, whichever is fewer
• Pools must limit their capacity to 50 people with social distancing.

November 18, 2020:

(St. Louis City): St. Louis City issued Health Commissioner Order No. 15, which took effect at 12:00 a.m. on November 14, 2020, and will remain in effect until rescinded or amended. Certain previous orders, including Order No. 13 and Order No. 14 will remain in effect. Under this order, private gatherings are limited to no more than 10 persons. The order explicitly does not apply to businesses, schools, institutions of higher learning, and government offices. As a reminder, some provisions of Order No. 13 that remain in effect are:

• Bars, restaurants, and nightclubs must:
  • Limit capacity to 50% of their permitted occupancy
  • Must be closed by 11:00 PM
• Large venues must limit their capacity to 50% of their permitted occupancy
• All Businesses that are closed as a result of a public health order may:
  • Maintain inventory
  • Process payroll or employee benefits

(St. Louis County): St. Louis County Department of Public Health (“DPH”) issued its 3rd amended quarantine and isolation Order, which took effect at 5 p.m. on November 13, 2020, and will remain in effect until rescinded or amended. Under this amended order:

• People are required to self-isolate if they develop COVID-19 symptoms
• People shall quarantine if they came in close contact with a positive person, even if they have a negative result,
• People shall notify the health department if exposed to COVID-19,
• People who are tested, but did not come in close contact with a positive person, do not have to quarantine while awaiting test results,
• If the DPH identifies a person as having had close contact with a positive person, the person is required to quarantine for 14 days or until cleared by the DPH,
• People who test positive for COVID-19 must remain in isolation until cleared in writing by DPH, typically between 10 to 14 days.

Additionally, DPH issued its 2nd amended face mask Order, which took effect on November 17, 2020, and will remain in effect until rescinded or amended. This amendment changes who is subject to the face covering requirement in public settings and provides additional guidance relevant to the wearing of facemasks for students.

Additionally, DPH issued a safer at home Order, which took effect at 6 a.m. on November 17, 2020, and will remain in effect until rescinded or amended. This order replaces the 4th amended order for business and individual guidelines for social distancing and re-opening. Under this amended order:

• People may not leave their residences except for:
  • Work and volunteering if they cannot do so from home,
  • Shopping and receiving items of food or drink,
  • Visiting others in their support bubble,
  • Accessing financial services or other public services,
  • Medical reasons,
  • Education and training,
  • Childcare services,
  • Worship, funerals, or related services, and
  • Exercise.
• People may not leave their residences for social gatherings unless with family or those that are part of their support bubble.
• Gatherings may not be more than 10 people,
• Businesses with occupancy limits must:
  • Limit occupancy to 25% of that authorized,
  • Provide employees with face coverings or materials to make face coverings, and
  • Comply with social distancing requirements, disinfection processes and other related guidance.
• Restaurants must cease all indoor service
• Drinking establishments may only provide carryout and delivery
• Businesses kept closed as a result of COVID-19 may continue to operate the necessary activities to maintain the value of inventory, provide security, process payroll, or employee benefits, and facilitate remote work.

(Kansas City): Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas issued Eleventh Amended Order 20-01, repealing the Tenth Amended Order 20-01, and will take effect at 12:01 a.m. on November 20, 2020 and expires with the Third Amended Emergency Proclamation unless rescinded or amended. Under this new order:

• Employers are required to reasonably accommodate employees with health or safety concerns, responsibility for minors or others and not require they report to work in certain situations.
• Restaurants, taverns, and venues, must:
  • Limit occupancy to 50% of their capacity,
  • Close by 10:00 p.m.
  • Require mask be work indoors and outdoors while standing or sitting unless actively eating or drinking, and
  • Limit parties to 10 or fewer persons.
• Masks must be work in all indoor spaces when more than one person is in a room not separated by a barrier unless exempted.
• Businesses shall maintain records of occupants who are on the premises for more than 10 minutes and notify the Director of Public Health of a positive case.
• Gyms and fitness centers must limit their occupancy to 50% of their capacity and must require masks.
• Gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited, which does not include groups from the same household, unless approved by the Director of Public Health.

(Platte County): Platte County issued an amended Order, which takes effect at 12:00 a.m. on November 23, 2020, and will remain in effect until further notice. Under this order masks continue to be required in all indoor and outdoor locations, settings and events where individuals are less than six feet away from each other. Additionally:

• Restaurants, taverns, and other venues for food and drink, must:
  • Limit occupancy to 50% of that authorized,
  • Close by 10:00 p.m.,
  • Require indoor and outdoor patrons be seated and wearing a mask unless actively eating or drinking, and
  • Limit parties to 10 or fewer persons.
• Masks must be work in all indoor spaces when more than one person is in a room not separated by a barrier unless exempted.
• Businesses shall maintain records of occupants who are on the premises for more than 10 minutes and notify the Director of Public Health of a positive case.
• Gyms and fitness centers must limit their occupancy to 50% of their capacity and must require masks.
• Businesses generally open to the public must maintain six feet of distance between areas of service.
• Gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited, which does not include groups from the same household, unless approved by the Director of Public Health.

(Jackson County): Jackson County issued an amended Order, which takes effect at 12:01 a.m. on November 20, 2020, and will continue until rescinded or amended in writing. Under this order, certain restrictions on Eastern Jackson County are re-imposed, including:

• Masks must be worn unless exempted.
• Businesses frequented by the public must:
  • Limit occupancy to 50% of their capacity,
• Restaurants, taverns, and venues for food and drink, must:
  • Limit occupancy to 50% of their capacity,
  • Close by 10:00 p.m.
  • Require indoor patrons to be seated and wearing a mask unless actively eating or drinking, and
  • Limit parties to 10 or fewer persons.
• Gyms and fitness centers must limit their occupancy to 50% of their capacity and must require masks.
• Gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited, which does not include groups from the same household, unless approved by the Director of Public Health.

(Clay County): Clay County issued Public Health Emergency Order 11172020, which takes effect at 12:00 a.m. on November 23, 2020, and will remain in effect until further notice. Under this order masks continue to be required for employees and visitors while indoors and unable to maintain social distancing. Additionally:

• Restaurants, taverns, and other venues for food and drink, must:
  • Limit occupancy to 50% of that authorized,
  • Close by 10:00 p.m.,
  • Require indoor and outdoor patrons be seated and wearing a mask unless actively eating or drinking, and
  • Limit parties to 10 or fewer persons.
• Masks must be worn in all indoor spaces when more than one person is in a room not separated by a barrier unless exempted.
• Gyms and fitness centers must limit their occupancy to 50% of their capacity and must require masks.
• Businesses generally open to the public must maintain six feet of distance between areas of service.
• Indoor gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited, which does not include groups from the same household, unless approved by the Director of Public Health.

(City of Columbia/ Boone County): The City of Columbia issued Order No. 2020-15 and Boone County issued Order No. 2020-15C, which extends phase two, step three, of its reopening plans until December 8, 2020, at 11:59 p.m., under Order No. 2020-11 and Order No. 2020-11C. Under the current phase:

• Face masks are required when social distancing cannot be maintained and when not exempt
• Restaurants and bars:
  • Must close by 10:30 p.m., but may continue curb-side and off-premise delivery of food,
  • Are limited to ten persons per table,
  • May not utilize standing bars or buffets, and
  • Customers must wear a mask when not seated
• Large venues and entertainment facilities must submit an operational plan and are limited to 100 people
• Childcare services may not have groups larger than 50 children
• Personal care services are limited to 50% capacity or 50 people, whichever is fewer
• Pools must limit their capacity to 50 people with social distancing.

November 9, 2020:

(St. Louis City): The Mayor of St. Louis City announced an extension to the city’s temporary outdoor seating permit program, which will now expire on December 31, 2020. Through this program, businesses can apply to expand their outdoor seating options. More details and the application can be found here.

November 3, 2020:

(St. Louis County): St. Louis County Department of Public Health (“DPH”) issued its 2nd amended quarantine and isolation Order on November 2, 2020, replacing the order dated March 24, 2020, which took effect at 6 a.m. on November 3, 2020, and will remain in effect until rescinded or amended. Under this amended order:

• People are required to self-isolate if they develop COVID-19 symptoms
• People shall quarantine if they came in close contact with a positive person, even if they have a negative result,
• People shall notify the health department if exposed to COVID-19,
• If the DPH identifies a person as having had close contact with a positive person, the person is required to quarantine for 14 days or until cleared by the DPH,
• People who test positive for COVID-19 must remain in isolation until cleared in writing by DPH.
• People who were in quarantine were permitted to vote at designated drive through locations.

(City of Columbia/ Boone County): The City of Columbia issued Order No. 2020-14 and Boone County issued Order No. 2020-14C on November 2, 2020, which extends phase two, step three, of its reopening plans until November 17, 2020, at 11:59 p.m., under Order No. 2020-11 and Order No. 2020-11C. Under the current phase:

• Face masks are required when social distancing cannot be maintained and when not exempt
• Restaurants and bars:
  • Must close by 10:30 p.m., but may continue curb-side and off-premise delivery of food,
  • Are limited to ten persons per table,
  • May not utilize standing bars or buffets, and
  • Customers must wear a mask when not seated
• Large venues and entertainment facilities must submit an operational plan and are limited to 100 people
• Child care services may not have groups larger than 50 children
• Personal care services are limited to 50% capacity or 50 people, whichever is fewer
• Pools must limit their capacity to 50 people with social distancing.

October 19, 2020:

(City of Columbia/ Boone County): The City of Columbia issued Order No. 2020-13 and Boone County issued Order No. 2020-13C on October 9, 2020, which extends phase two, step three, of its reopening plans until November 3, 2020, at 11:59 p.m., under Order No. 2020-11 and Order No. 2020-11C. Under the current phase:

• Face masks are required when social distancing cannot be maintained and when not exempt
• Restaurants and bars:
  • Must close by 10:30 p.m., but may continue curb-side and off-premise delivery of food,
  • Are limited to ten persons per table,
  • May not utilize standing bars or buffets, and
  • Customers must wear a mask when not seated
• Large venues and entertainment facilities must submit an operational plan and are limited to 100 people
• Childcare services may not have groups larger than 50 children
• Personal care services are limited to 50% capacity or 50 people, whichever is fewer
• Pools must limit their capacity to 50 people with social distancing.

October 8, 2020:

Jackson County issued an order, which will go into effect on October 9, 2020, and will continue until rescinded or amended in writing. This order makes changes to the original order permitting Eastern Jackson County to move into Phase 2.5 of the county’s reopening plan. Under this order:

• Face coverings must be worn in public indoor spaces or when social distancing cannot be maintained in public outdoor spaces by certain individuals
• Business must deny entry and service to those who refuse to wear unless exempted
• All businesses are permitted to re-open provided they follow social distancing and PPE requirements
• Businesses that are frequented by the public must limit their capacity to 50% of their capacity
• Businesses open to the public must post the social distancing requirements
• Gatherings must generally be limited to 100 people unless attendees wear a face covering and maintain social distancing
  • Gatherings that exceed 100 people must submit a Gathering Protocol at least 72 hours in advance of the event

October 5, 2020:

St. Louis County Department of Public Health issued an amended Order, which will take effect October 7, 2020 and will remain in effect until rescinded or amended. Under this amended order:

• All gatherings of 50 or more individuals is prohibited except for:
  • Those already under capacity limitations
  • Organized outdoor gatherings that can implement capacity limits similar to indoor spaces
  • Medical facilities
  • Shelters
  • Schools and other childcare facilities
  • Polling places
  • Professional businesses not engaged in direct contact with the public
• Drinking establishments must be closed by 10:00 p.m.
• Businesses with occupancy limits must:
  • Limit occupancy to 50% of that authorized
  • Provide employees with face coverings or materials to make face coverings
  • Comply with social distancing requirements, disinfection processes and other related guidance
• Businesses kept closed as a result of COVID-19 may continue to operate the necessary activities to maintain the value of inventory, provide security, process payroll, or employee benefits, and facilitate remote work.
• Entertainment venues, sporting events, museums, casinos, and playgrounds, must:
  • Submit proposed business plans to DPH which must be approved, and
  • Limit occupancy to 50% of that authorized

October 1, 2020:

(City of Columbia/ Boone County): The City of Columbia issued Order No. 2020-12 and Boone County issued Order No. 2020-12C on October 1, 2020, which extends phase two, step three, of its reopening plans until October 20, 2020, at 11:59 p.m., under Order No. 2020-11 and Order No. 2020-11C. Under the current phase:

• Face masks are required when social distancing cannot be maintained and when not exempt
• Restaurants and bars:
  • Must close by 10:30 p.m., but may continue curb-side and off-premise delivery of food,
  • Are limited to ten persons per table,
  • May not utilize standing bars or buffets, and
  • Customers must wear a mask when not seated
• Large venues and entertainment facilities must submit an operational plan and are limited to 100 people
• Child care services may not have groups larger than 50 children
• Personal care services are limited to 50% capacity or 50 people, whichever is fewer
• Pools must limit their capacity to 50 people with social distancing.

September 21, 2020:

(City of Columbia/ Boone County): The City of Columbia issued Order No. 2020-11 and Boone County issued order No. 2020-11C, which took effect on September 18, 2020, which extends phase two, step three, of its reopening plans until October 6, 2020, at 11:59 p.m. Under the current phase:

• Face masks are required when social distancing cannot be maintained and when not exempt
• Restaurants and bars:
  • Must close by 10:30 p.m., but may continue curb-side and off-premise delivery of food,
  • Are limited to ten persons per table,
  • May not utilize standing bars or buffets, and
  • Customers must wear a mask when not seated
• Large venues and entertainment facilities must submit an operational plan and are limited to 100 people
• Child care services may not have groups larger than 50 children
• Personal care services are limited to 50% capacity or 50 people, whichever is fewer
• Pools must limit their capacity to 50 people with social distancing.

September 9, 2020:

(St. Louis City): St. Louis City issued a Health Commissioner Order No. 14, which took effect on September 8, 2020, and modified and extended the effective date of Order No. 13, and remains in effect until extended, rescinded, superseded, or amended. As a reminder, the provisions of Order No. 13 are:

• Bars, restaurants, and nightclubs must:
  • Limit capacity to 50% of their permitted occupancy and
  • Must be closed by 11:00 PM.
• Large venues must limit their capacity to 50% of their permitted occupancy.
• All Businesses that are closed as a result of a public health order may:
  • Maintain inventory and
  • Process payroll or employee benefits.

September 2, 2020:

(Clay County): Clay County issued Public Health Emergency Order 08212020, which took effect August 24, 2020, and will continue until further notice. Under this order, all provisions from Order No. 07012020 will continue. Additionally, the order exempts essential governmental functions, and specifically allows schools to open and youth sports to resume with COVID-19 related precautions.

(City of Columbia/ Boone County): The City of Columbia issued Order No. 2020-10 and Boone County issued Order No. 2020-10C, which took effect on August 28, 2020. The orders extend phase two of the reopening plans until September 17, 2020, at 11:59 p.m. Under the current phase:

• Face masks are required when social distancing cannot be maintained and when not exempt
• Restaurants and bars:
  • Must stop serving alcohol by 9:00 p.m. and must close by 10:00 p.m.
  • Are limited to ten persons per table
  • May not utilize standing bars or buffets, and
  • Customers must wear a mask when not seated
• Large venues and entertainment facilities must submit an operational plan and are limited to 100 people
• Childcare services may not have groups larger than 50 children
• Personal care services are limited to 50% capacity or 50 people, whichever is fewer
• Pools must limit their capacity to 50 people with social distancing.

August 24, 2020:

(St. Louis County): St. Louis County Department of Public Health issued an amended Order, which took effect on August 21, 2020 and will remain in effect until rescinded or amended. This amendment changes who is subject to the face covering requirement in public settings, and provides additional guidance relevant to the wearing of facemasks for students.

August 13, 2020:

(Kansas City): Kansas City mayor Quinton Lucas issued Fourth Amended Proclamation Declaring a State of Emergency. This Proclamation continues the state of emergency, which has been in effect since March 12, 2020, and allows all current orders to remain in effect until altered, modified, superseded, or repealed.

August 12, 2020:

(St. Louis City): St. Louis City issued a Health Commissioner Order No. 13, which takes effect on August 13, 2020, modifies Order No. 8 and Order No. 9, rescinds Order No. 10 and Order No. 12, and remains in effect until September 7, 2020. Under this new order:

• Bars, restaurants, and nightclubs must:
  • Limit capacity to 50% of their permitted occupancy
  • Must be closed by 11:00 PM
• Large venues must limit their capacity to 50% of their permitted occupancy
• All Businesses that are closed as a result of a public health order may:
  • Maintain inventory
  • Process payroll or employee benefits

August 11, 2020:

(City of Columbia/ Boone County): The City of Columbia issued Order No. 2020-09 and Boone County issued order No. 2020-09C on August 6, 2020, which extends phase two, step three, of its reopening plans until August 31, 2020. Under the current phase:

• Face masks are required when social distancing cannot be maintained and when not exempt
• Restaurants and bars:
  • Are limited to ten persons per table
  • May not utilize standing bars or buffets, and
  • Customers must wear a mask when not seated
• Large venues and entertainment facilities must submit an operational plan and are limited to 100 people
• Child care services may not have groups larger than 50 children
• Personal care services are limited to 50% capacity or 50 people, whichever is fewer
• Pools must limit their capacity to 50 people with social distancing.

August 3, 2020:

(St. Louis City): The St. Louis City Department of Health announced on July 29, 2020, that businesses could request signs from the city that warn individuals to social distance and wear a face mask to combat the continued rise of COVID-19 cases.

(St. Louis County): St. Louis County Department of Public Health issued its third amended Order, which took effect on July 31, 2020 and will remain in effect until rescinded or amended. Under this new order:

• All gathers of 50 or more individuals is prohibited except for:
  • Those already under capacity limitations
  • Medical facilities
  • Shelters
  • Schools and other childcare facilities
  • Polling places
  • Professional businesses not engaged in direct contact with the public
• Drinking establishments must be closed by 10:00 PM
• Businesses with occupancy limits must:
  • Limit occupancy to 25% of that authorized
  • Install physical parries between customers and staff or ensure 6 ft of separation
  • Install markings in areas prone to lines or congregation
  • Provide signage outlining social distancing requirements
  • Prohibit the use of reusable containers by customers
  • Where feasible provide for contactless payment, pick-up and delivery
• Additionally, businesses must follow the additional disinfection protocol and employee health requirements.

July 27, 2020:

(Statewide): Governor Mike Parson’s administration announced approximately twenty million dollars in additional grants to address home and community-based services providers impacted by COVID-19.

(St. Louis City): St. Louis City announced that it will begin moving to close businesses continuing to ignore public health orders. The St. Louis City Department of Health has been sending cease and desist letters to businesses disregarding the City’s rules requiring social distancing and masks. Actions to close a business will likely result in the businesses being closed for 14 days.

July 23, 2020:

(St. Louis City): St. Louis City mayor Krewson announced that business operations in the city will remain at 75% under Order No. 12 due to the continued rise of COVID-19 cases. Additionally, the mayor announced that as of July 17, 2020, small businesses severely impacted by COVID-19 will begin receiving pre-approved grants from the federal Cares Act relief package.

July 21, 2020:

(St. Louis City): St. Louis City issued a Health Commissioner Order No. 12, which took effect on July 18, 2020, modifies Order No. 10, and remains in effect until rescinded or amended. Under this order Large Venues may increase their capacity to 75% of their capacity.

(City of Springfield): The City of Springfield announced phase 3A reopening which became effective July 14, 2020, and will remain in effect until 12:01 AM, October 15, 2020. Under this order:

• Bars, nightclubs, tap rooms, entertainment venues, fitness classes and retail may operate at which ever of the following is greater:
  • 50% of their capacity, or
  • 35 people
• Face coverings are still generally required by staff and patrons except in certain situations.

July 15, 2020:

(Clay County): Clay County amended its Public Health Emergency Order, which makes face masks required in all indoor areas of public accommodation. The order will go in effect Sunday, July 19, 2020, and remain in effect through Sunday, August 23, 2020. The order includes previous limitations on taverns, which may not exceed 50% of their authorized capacity.

(Platte City): Platte City issued an amended Order, which takes effect Thursday, July 16, 2020, and will remain in effect until extended, rescinded, superseded, or amended. Under this order, masks are required in all indoor and outdoor locations, settings and events where individuals are less than six feet away from each other. Under this order, businesses may not be open unless they adhere to the requirements to wear masks. Additionally, food establishments must create a written safety plan, which must be posted and availability for review by the Platte County Health Department.

July 14, 2020:

(City of Columbia/Boone County): The City of Columbia issued Order No. 2020-08 and Boone County issued order No. 2020-08C on July 10, 2020, which extends phase two, step three, of its reopening plans until August 10, 2020. Under the current phase, restaurants and bars may not utilize standing bars or buffets, large venues and entertainment facilities must submit an operational plan and are limited to 100 people, child care services may not have groups larger than 50 children, personal care services are limited to 50% capacity or 50 people, whichever is fewer, and pools must limit their capacity to 50 people with social distancing.

July 13, 2020:

(Kansas City): Kansas City mayor Quinton Lucas issued Tenth Amended Order 20-01, which took effect on July 12, 2020, and expires with the Third Amended Emergency Proclamation. Under this new order:

• Employers are required to reasonably accommodate employees with health or safety concerns, responsibility for minors or others and not require they report to work in certain situations.
• Previous business limitations are rescinded except taverns must limit occupancy to 50% of their capacity.
• Employees and visitors of indoor establishments must wear masks when in an area or while performing an activity which involves close contact
• Employers are recommended to keep a record for visitors that remain for more than 10 minutes.
• Businesses with close service requirements must maintain a 6 foot distance between service areas

July 8, 2020:

(Jefferson City): Jefferson City extended its Emergency Declaration to August 3, 2020. This extension took effect, July 6, 2020.

(City of Columbia): The Columbia City Council passed a mask ordinance requiring masks when individuals are outside of their homes and cannot maintain 6 feet away. The ordinance includes exemptions for individuals when exercising, playing sports, actively eating or drinking, and other situations.

July 6, 2020:

(St. Louis County & City): St. Louis County issued an additional order which took effect July 1, 2020, and St. Louis City issued order No. 11, which took effect July 2, 2020, and both remain in effect until rescinded or amended in writing. These orders require face coverings be worn by certain individuals when in any business or public place, both indoors and outdoors, when social distancing cannot be observed. Additionally, under the St. Louis County order:

• Businesses must post this requirement at all points of entry and
• Businesses may deny entry to anyone who refuses to wear a face covering

(Clay County): Clay County issued Public Health Emergency Order 07012020, which amended order No. 06152020, took effect on July 5, 2020, and will expire on July 20, 2002, at 12:01 AM. This order continues the county’s Phase 2, Step 2 of their recovery, which allows for 100% occupancy if masks are worn by all and physical distancing is maintained.

(Jackson County): Jackson County issued an order, which went into effect on July 1, 2020, and will continue until rescinded or amended in writing. This order permits Eastern Jackson County to move into Phase 2.5 or the county’s reopening plan. Under this order:

• Face coverings must be worn in public indoor or outdoor spaces by certain individuals
• All businesses are permitted to re-open provided they follow social distancing and PPE requirements
• Businesses that are frequented by the public must limit their capacity to 50% of their capacity
• Businesses open to the public must post the social distancing requirements
• Gatherings must generally be limited to:
  • 50% of that allowed for indoor venues
  • 100% of that allowed for outdoor venues

July 1, 2020:

(St. Louis City & County): Both St. Louis County and St. Louis City have announced that new public health orders will be issued requiring individuals to wear a face mask or covering when in public spaces in doors, or when outdoors and social distancing cannot be observed. The order is expected to take effect on July 3, 2020.

(Platte City): Platte City issued an amended Order, which took effect July 1, 2020, and remain in effect until extended, rescinded, superseded, or amended. Under this order retail and non-retail businesses may increase their capacity to 100%.

June 30, 2020:

(St. Louis County): St. Louis County Department of Public Health issued updated guidance for banquet and conference centers, effective June 29.

St. Louis County issued a Public Health Order, which took effect on June 29, 2020, and remains in effect until rescinded or amended. This order outlines minimum procedures all businesses must take and directs most businesses to follow the industry specific guidelines, which include capacity requirements for each. Prior to opening the following businesses must submit a plan for re-opening to DPH:

• Entertainment and attraction venues
• Concert Venues
• Mass Sporting Events
• Museums
• Casinos
• Playgrounds

Business reopening guidelines can be found here.

(Kansas City): Kansas City mayor Quinton Lucas issued Ninth Amended Order 20-01, which took effect on June 29, 2020, and expires at 12:01 a.m. on July 12, 2020. Under this new order:

• Employers are required to reasonably accommodate employees with health or safety concerns, responsibility for minors or others and not require they report to work in certain situations.
• Previous business limitations are rescinded except
  • Taverns must limit occupancy to 50% of their capacity.
• Employees and visitors of indoor establishments must wear masks when in an area or while performing an activity which involves close contact
• Employers are recommended to keep a record for visitors that remain for more than 10 minutes.
• Businesses with close service requirements must maintain a 6-foot distance between service areas

(City of Columbia): Mayor Brian Treece announced a desire to issue an ordinance requiring masks in all public settings. Staff are currently researching options to propose to the City council.

June 29, 2020:

(Kansas City): Kansas City issued a Ninth Amended Order, which took effect, on Monday, June 29, and will expire, July 12, 2020. Under this order:

• All employees or visitors to any place of public accommodation must wear face coverings in an area or while performing an activity which will necessarily involve close contact or proximity to co-workers or the public where six feet of separation is not feasible.
• Percentage capacity limits are eliminated, except for taverns and bars.

June 23, 2020:

(Boone County): Boone county along with the City of Columbia, Missouri issued amended Business Guidance to assist businesses in the process of reopening under the city and county’s orders.

June 18, 2020:

(Boone County): Boone county along with the City of Columbia, Missouri released Order Nos. 2020-07 and 2020-07C, which takes effect on June 23, 2020, and will remain in effect until July 20, 2020. Under this order:

• Occupancy limitations are removed for businesses
• Restaurants and bars may not utilize standing bars, counters, or buffet service
• Large venues, entertainment facilities, movie theaters and nightclubs must submit an operational plan for approval
  • These venues are limited to 100 people with social distancing
• Child care services may not have groups larger than 50 children
• Personal care services may increase their capacity to 50% or a total of 50 people, whichever is fewer
• Pools must limit their capacity to 50 people with social distancing

(Christian County): Christian County issued Order No. 06-15-2020-01, which took effect June 15, 2020, and expires June 21, 2020. This order repeals Exhibit A of Order No. 05-29-2020-01, which outlined business restrictions and outlines guidance for individuals to continue to take precautions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

June 17, 2020:

Missouri’s reopening order expired on June 15, 2020, and Governor Michael L. Parson announced that no statewide order would follow, which marks the beginning of Phase 2. Missouri’s Reopening website still contains a recovery plan and guidance for businesses. 

June 16, 2020:

(Clay County): Clay County issued Public Health Order 06152020, which amended order 05312020, and went into effect on June 16, 2020, and will expire on July 5, 2020, at 12:01 P.M. Under this order:

• All businesses may raise their occupancy to 50% of their capacity
• Mass gatherings of 250 or less are permitted
• Neighborhood pools may operate at 50%

June 15, 2020:

(St. Louis City): St. Louis City issued a Health Commissioner Order No. 10, which took effect on June 10, 2020, modifies Order No. 9, and remains in effect until rescinded or amended. This order allows large venues to increase their capacity to the following:

• 50% beginning June 22
• 75% beginning July 6
• 100% beginning July 20

(City of Springfield): The City of Springfield announced phase 3 reopening which became effective June 15, 2020, and will remain in effect until 12:01 AM, July 15, 2020. Under this order:

• Personal care services may increase their capacity to 30 times 50% of the square feet devoted to providing service
• Non-essential retail establishments may increase their capacity to 30 times 50% of the square feet devoted to providing service
• Restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and breweries may increase their capacity to whichever of the following is greater:
  • 35 customers, or
  • 30 times 50% of the square feet devoted to providing service
  • Counter seating and self-serve buffets are still prohibited
• Group entertainment may also open, but must limit their capacity:
  • For indoor entertainment to whichever of the following is greater:
    • 35 customers,
    • 30 times 50% of the square feet devoted to entertaining, or
    • 50% of the total occupancy of fixed seating, and
  • For outdoor entertainment to whichever of the following is greater:
    • 35 customers,
    • 30 times 50% of the square feet devoted to entertaining
• Gyms and fitness centers must limit their capacity to whichever of the following is greater:
  • 35 customers, or
  • 30 times 50% of the square feet devoted to entertaining

June 11, 2020:

(St. Louis County): St. Louis County Department of Public Health issued guidance for banquet and conference centers, which will be permitted to reopen on June 15th.

June 9, 2020:

(St. Louis County): St. Louis County Department of Public Health issued guidance for entertainment venues, including movie theaters, arcades, and bowling alleys, which will be permitted to reopen on June 15th.

June 8, 2020:

(St. Louis County): St. Louis County Department of Public Health issued guidance for outdoor drive-in entertainment which are currently permitted to be open.

(Boone County): Boone county along with the City of Columbia, Missouri issued amended Business Guidance to assist businesses in the process of reopening under the city and county’s orders.

June 2, 2020:

(St. Louis County): St. Louis County Department of Public Health issued guidance for gyms, pools, and other sports which will be permitted to reopen on June 15th.

(Clay County): Clay County issued Public Health Orders 05272020 and 05312020, which went into effect on June 1, 2020, and will expire on June 15, 2020, at 11:59 p.m. Under these orders the county extended the Clay County Recovery Plan contained in Order 04292020, a phased approach to reopening; businesses engaged in retail sales, must limit the number of people in an establishment to:

• 25% or less of authorized occupancy for those with less than 10,000 sq. ft., or
• 10% or less of authorized occupancy for those with more than 10,000 sq. ft.

(Jackson County): Jackson County issued and order, which went into effect on June 1, 2020, and will expire on June 15, 2020, at 11:59 p.m. Under this order:

• Businesses engaged in retail sales, must limit the number of people in an establishment to:
  • 25% or less of authorized occupancy for those with less than 10,000 sq. ft., or
  • 10% or less of authorized occupancy for those with more than 10,000 sq. ft.
• Non-retail businesses including social and religious organizations, and gyms and fitness centers may reopen, but must limit capacity to
  • 50 people or 25% of their capacity, whichever is greater, for those with more than 10,000 sq. ft., or
  • 50 people or 50% of their capacity, whichever is greater, for those with less than 10,000 sq. ft.
• When reasonably achievable, all businesses are encouraged to collect the information of persons entering a facility.
• Food service establishments may offer dine-in services where:
  • Tables are 6’ apart
  • There is no communal seating area is used for individuals not connected
  • There are no more than 10 people per table
  • The written safety plan is posted at or near the front door or front entrance
• Businesses may refuse service to customers without masks or refuse to follow the safety plan.
• Swimming pools may also reopen if they limit their capacity to 50% of their authorized occupancy

June 1, 2020:

(St. Louis County): St. Louis County Department of Public Health announced that bars will be permitted to open June 8th and gyms, pools, and other sports will be permitted to reopen on June 15th.

May 29, 2020:

(Kansas City): Kansas City issued its Seventh Amended Order 20-01, which will take effect at 12:01 A.M. on May 31, 2020, and expires at 12:01 A.M on July 5, 2020. Under this new order:

• There is no distinction between essential businesses and non-essential businesses
• Businesses must limit occupancy to 50% or less of their capacity
• Businesses shall establish 6 foot spacing between areas of service where social distancing cannot be maintained
• Businesses may refuse customers without masks
• Employers must accommodate employees with health or safety concerns or who are responsible for minors if the employee:
  • Has an underlying condition,
  • Is the primary caregiver of someone with COVID-19 and qualifies under the Family Medical Leave Act, or
  • Is employed by a business with less than 500 employees and is eligible for paid leave to take care of a minor due to COVID-19.
• Other gatherings may resume, but must be limited to 50% of the listed capacity and maintain social distancing.

May 28, 2020:

(Clay County): Clay County announced that it will be moving to the second step of phase 2 in its recovery plan starting June 1. In this phase Bars, restaurants, gyms, fitness centers and churches, will be allowed to operate at 50% capacity. Also, Mass gathering are permitted up to 50 participants observing social distancing.

(Kansas City): Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas announced that he will be signing an order to extend the current order with modifications to align with jurisdictions around Kansas City. This order will allow almost all businesses to increase their capacity to 50% and will get rid of the current distinction between essential and non-essential businesses.

(Boone County): Boone county along with the City of Columbia, Missouri issued amended Business Guidance to assist businesses in the process of reopening under the city and county’s orders.

May 26, 2020:

(St. Louis City): St. Louis City issued Health Commissioner Order No. 9, which took effect at 4:00 PM on May 22, 2020, and remains in effect until rescinded or amended. This order does not rescind Order No. 8. Under this order the following businesses have been given opening dates:

• Large venues beginning June 8, 2020 (Exhibit I),
• Summer camps beginning June 1, 2020 (Exhibit J),
• Swimming pools beginning June 1, 2020 (Exhibit K),
• Gyms and other fitness facilities/studios beginning June 15, 2020 (Exhibit L), and
• Funeral homes may begin under the guidelines established for churches.

(St. Louis County): St. Louis County Department of Public Health issue a travel advisory due to individuals not practicing proper social distancing over the holiday weekend. The advisory urges those who travelled without engaging in protective practices or social distancing to self-quarantine for 14 days or until tested for COVID-19. The advisory also suggests employers add questions to their employee screening protocols related to recent travels and social distancing behaviors.

(Kansas City): Kansas City announced that the city will be easing certain restrictions on sidewalk cafes, street cafes, parklets, and parking lot dining. This temporary reduction in requirements will be in effect between May 21, 2020 and December 31, 2020. The reductions include:

• Permit fee waived
• Signature requirement waived
• Maintenance agreement waived
• No bond deposit required
• No parking space limit

(City of Columbia/Boone County): The City of Columbia and Boone County issued public Health Order No. 2020-06, which will take effect at 12:01 A.M. on May 26, 2020, and signals the next phase in reopening Columbia and Boone County. Under this order:

• All businesses may reopen
• Restaurants and bars must limit seating occupancy to 50% of their permissible capacity.
• Personal care businesses must operate at 50% capacity, or 25 total, whichever is lower.
• Business engaged in retail sales, must limit the number of people in an establishment to:
  • 25% or less of authorized occupancy for those with less than 10,000 sq. ft., or
  • 10% or less of authorized occupancy for those with more than 10,000 sq. ft.
• Large venues, entertainment facilities, movie theaters, and nightclubs must submit an operational plan first.
• Child care services must limit their service to 25 children.

May 19, 2020:

(Boone County): Boone County, along with the City of Columbia, Missouri issued amended Business Guidance to assist businesses in the process of reopening under the city and county’s orders.

May 18, 2020:

(St. Louis City and St. Louis County): St. Louis City and St. Louis County’s new orders allowing for the reopening of certain businesses will go into effect today. Check out Husch Blackwell’s in-depth look at St. Louis County’s reopening order here and St. Louis City’s order here.

May 17, 2020:

(St. Louis City and St. Louis County): St. Louis City and St. Louis County’s new orders allowing for the reopening of certain businesses will go into effect May 18, 2020. Husch Blackwell’s in-depth look at St. Louis County’s reopening order may be accessed here and St. Louis City’s order here.

May 15, 2020:

(St. Louis City and St. Louis County): St. Louis City and St. Louis County’s new orders allowing for the reopening of certain businesses will go into effect this Monday, May 18, 2020. Check out Husch Blackwell’s in-depth look at St. Louis County’s reopening order here and St. Louis City’s order here.

(Boone County): Boone county along with the City of Columbia issued Business Guidance to assist businesses in the process of reopening under the city and county’s orders.

May 14, 2020:

(St. Louis City): St. Louis City issued a Health Commissioner Order No. 8, which will take effect at 12:01 on May 18, 2020, remains in effect until rescinded or amended. This order allows certain businesses to open and adopts the Phase I Standards and Guidance, along with various exhibits relevant to certain industry groups. Under this new order:

• Retail establishments must limit occupancy as required by the state order to:
  • 25% of the capacity authorized by the fire or building code for those with less than 10,000 sq. ft.
  • 10% of the capacity authorized by the fire or building code for those with more than 10,000 sq. ft.
• All businesses must make arrangements for:
  • Social distancing;
  • Training regarding the disinfection and social distancing requirements;
  • Signage regarding masks and social distancing requirements for employees and customers;
  • Face masks or materials to make face masks for employees;
  • Reasonable breaks for employees and volunteers to wash their hands;
  • Hand sanitizer at building openings for the public;
  • Cleaning as recommended by the CDC;
  • Frequent disinfection of high-touch surfaces;
  • Daily screening of employees and volunteers for symptoms of COVID-19.
• Gatherings in any one location continue to be limited to 10 people or less
• Individuals must comply with social distancing requirements
• All businesses must require facemask for employees unless working alone in an enclosed area

Additionally, the order sets specific standards and guidance for specific categories of businesses:

• Offices (Exhibit B Part I, Exhibit B Part II)
• Hotels & Commercial Lodging (Exhibit C)
• Manufacturing (Exhibit D)
• Retail Services and Malls (Exhibit E)
• Restaurants and Bars (Exhibit F)
• Personal Services (Exhibit G)
• Transportation (Exhibit H)
• Churches (General business guidelines and CDC Guidance)
• Parks, playgrounds and pools (recommended to remain closed)

Some businesses are still prohibited from opening, including:

• Ballrooms, Banquet rooms, Meeting rooms;
• Gyms and fitness centers;
• Casinos
• Schools
• Sports Stadiums
• Cultural institutions/Destinations & Attractions/Large Venues

Mayor Lyda Krewson also announced that businesses with 10 or fewer employees can request free personal protective equipment for their employees.

(Kansas City): Kansas City issued its sixth Amended order 20-01, which will take effect at 12:01 A.M. on May 15, 2020, and expires at 12:01 A.M on May 31, 2020.

• Essential business may continue as under previous orders
• Non-essential businesses may resume, but must:
  • Adhere to social distancing
  • Allow employees able to work from home to continue to do so
  • Allow employees with health/safety concerns, or with children, to not report to work
  • Limit the number of customers to 10 of the building occupancy, or 10 people (whichever is greater)
  • Record names, contact information, and entry and exit time of everyone on premises for more than 10 minutes (the 10/10/10 rule)
  • Mandate all service providers wear mask where possible and where social distancing is not cannot be maintained
• Businesses may refuse customers without masks
• There are additional restrictions on individual, including religious, gatherings:
  • Gatherings indoor are to be limited to 10% the building occupancy or 10 people (whichever is greater)
  • Gatherings outdoor are to be limited 50 people
  • Individuals should also consider recording names, contact information, and entry and exit time of everyone on premises for more than 10 minutes (the 10/10/10 rule)

May 11, 2020:

(St. Louis County): St. Louis County issued a Public Health Order, which will take effect on May 18, 2020, remains in effect until rescinded or amended. Under this order, certain business will be able to reopen and resume certain activities prohibited under previous St. Louis County orders. Under this new order all businesses must:

• Limit any gatherings in any one location to 10 people or less
• Comply with social distancing requirements
• Require facemask for employees unless working alone in an enclosed area
• Make arrangements for:
  • Frequent disinfection of high-touch surfaces;
  • Reasonable breaks for employees and volunteers to wash their hands;
  • Training regarding the disinfection and social distancing requirements;
  • Face masks or materials to make face masks; and
  • Daily screening of employees and volunteers for symptoms of COVID-19.

Additionally, for those businesses that work directly with the public, the must:

• Provide physical barriers between customers and employees where possible, or ensure a distance of 6 feet
• Provide markings to indicate a 6 feet distance in areas where individuals are likely to congregate or form lines
• Post an outline of the social distancing policy outside the facility
• Provide separate hours of operation for at-risk individuals where possible
• Provide contactless payment, pick-up and delivery when feasible with postings on the availability of these services.
• Limit the number of people at a particular location to:
  • 25% of the capacity authorized by the fire or building code for those with less than 10,000 sq. ft.
  • 10% of the capacity authorized by the fire or building code for those with more than 10,000 sq. ft.

Some businesses are still prohibited from opening, including:

• Entertainment, conference, and sporting venues;
• Gyms and fitness centers;
• Banquet rooms;
• Bars and other businesses that primarily serve alcohol and not full meals;
• Indoor and outdoor pools;
• Sporting events, sports courts and playgrounds

Husch Blackwell’s update and in-depth analysis on the St. Louis County Order can be found here.

May 8, 2020:

(St. Louis County): St. Louis County issued a Public Health Order, which will take effect on May 18, 2020. Under this order, certain business will be able to reopen and resume certain activities prohibited under previous St. Louis County orders. Under this new order all businesses must:

• Limit any gatherings in any one location to 10 people or less
• Comply with social distancing requirements
• Require facemask for employees unless working alone in an enclosed area
• Make arrangements for:
  • Frequent disinfection of high-touch surfaces;
  • Reasonable breaks for employees and volunteers to wash their hands;
  • Training regarding the disinfection and social distancing requirements;
  • Face masks or materials to make face masks; and
  • Daily screening of employees and volunteers for symptoms of COVID-19.

Additionally, for those businesses that work directly with the public, the must:

• Provide physical barriers between customers and employees where possible, or ensure a distance of 6 feet
• Provide markings to indicate a 6 feet distance in areas where individuals are likely to congregate or form lines
• Post an outline of the social distancing policy outside the facility
• Provide separate hours of operation for at-risk individuals where possible
• Provide contactless payment, pick-up and delivery when feasible with postings on the availability of these services.
• Limit the number of people at a particular location to:
  • 25% of the capacity authorized by the fire or building code for those with less than 10,000 sq. ft.
  • 10% of the capacity authorized by the fire or building code for those with more than 10,000 sq. ft.

Some business are still prohibited from opening, including:

• Entertainment, conference, and sporting venues;
• Gyms and fitness centers;
• Banquet rooms;
• Bars and other businesses that primarily serve alcohol and not full meals;
• Indoor and outdoor pools;
• Sporting events, sports courts and playgrounds.

(St. Louis City): St. Louis City announced that it plans to begin gradually reopening certain businesses along with St. Louis County on May 18, 2020.

May 7, 2020:

(Jackson County): Issued its Recovery Plan Phase 1, which takes effect on May 11, 2020. Under this plan:

• Residents should not gather in groups greater than 10 people
• Entertainment venues, gyms, outdoor playgrounds, and sport courts must remain closed
• Retail establishments, personal services such as salons, and dine-in restaurants may open but must limit the number of people to
  • 25% capacity of that authorized by the fire or building code for those with less than 10,000 sq. ft.
  • 10% capacity of that authorized by the fire or building code for those with more than 10,000 sq. ft.
  • 1 person per 30 sq. ft. if occupancy load is not locally defined
  • Such limits must be posted

May 6, 2020:

(Kansas City): Issued its fifth Amended order 20-01, which supersedes all prior orders, and takes effect at 12:01 A.M. May 6, 2020, until 12:01 A.M. May 15, 2020. Under this new order Non-essential businesses:

• Are permitted to begin opening with social distancing, while limiting customers to 10% of building occupancy, or 10 people (whichever is greater)
• must record names, contact information, and entry and exit time of everyone on premises for more than 10 minutes (the 10/10/10 rule)
• Must allow employees able to work from home to continue to do so
• Must allow employees with health/safety concerns, or with children, to not report to work
• Mandate all service providers wear mask where possible and where social distancing is not cannot be maintained
• Religious gatherings for various purposes may resume if limited to 10% of building occupancy, or 10 people (whichever is greater) and 50 people outside
• Inside dining areas of restaurants and bars, public access to government buildings, gyms, the city zoo, museums, and city playgrounds are to remain closed

Violating this order could result in the loss of a Certificate of Occupancy and/or Business Licenses.

April 29, 2020:

(Kansas City): Mayor Lucas announced that an updated order will be released taking effect at 12:01 a.m. on May 6, 2020. The new order allows for certain business activities to resume while ensuring necessary public health measures will remain in place. Under the order, non-essential businesses that are not open to the public may resume operations with workers maintaining social distancing. Most non-essential businesses that are open to the public can resume in person operations at either 10% of building occupancy, or 10 people (whichever is greater). Businesses must record names, contact information, and entry and exit time of everyone on premises for more than 10 minutes. This is called the “10/10/10 rule.” Finally, religious gatherings, which includes weddings and funerals, may resume with a limit of 10 people inside and 50 people outside, as long as social distancing is maintained, and the names of attendees are recorded. Gyms, bars, museums, in-person dining, dog parks, playgrounds, movie theaters, and public access to government buildings and community centers remain closed. It is expected that these will re-open on May 15 and be subject to the 10/10/10 rule.

April 27, 2020:

On April 27, Missouri Governor Mike Parson announced a new order that will take effect on May 4 as part of the State's plans for an orderly reopening of business and community operations. Under the new order, all Missourians must engage in social-distancing practices, including maintaining 6 feet away from non-family members, except for individuals engaged in job duties that require closer proximity. These new guidelines apply to all Missouri businesses, including those previously defined as Essential Businesses.

The new order permits restaurants to resume dining service, subject to social-distancing practices. The order also imposes occupancy limitations on retail stores, including grocery stores, as well as various other limitations. Additional guidance from the Governor's Office regarding the State's plans to reopen is available here. Missouri's current stay-at-home order is set to expire on May 3.

April 16, 2020:

(Statewide): Governor Mike Parson announced that the statewide stay-at-home order—currently set to expire on April 24—would be extended until May 3.

(St. Louis County): County Executive Sam Page announced that St. Louis County’s stay-at-home order would be extended indefinitely and would be “revisit[ed]” “in mid-May.”

(City of St. Louis): The City of St. Louis announced that it was extending its stay at home order indefinitely, with the order to be “reviewed from time to time, but no later than mid-May 2020.” The new order also recommends that individuals wear cloth masks in public and that essential businesses provide employees personal protective equipment.

(Kansas City): Mayor Lucas announced that the Stay-At-Home Order signed on March 21, which was set to expire on April 24, has been extended until May 15. The Order defines “Essential Businesses” as those that fall into 22 enumerated categories. These categories encompass most healthcare-related businesses, financial institutions, most food-related businesses, construction, utilities, transportation, grocery stores, hardware stores, gas stations, and professional services, such as legal or accounting services, when necessary to assist in compliance with legally mandated activities, among others. North Kansas City, and Independence also extended their Stay-At-Home Orders until May 15. Jackson County Executive also said he plans to announce an extension, which has not yet been released.

April 13, 2020:

(St. Louis County): In a radio interview, St. Louis County Executive Sam Page stated that the County’s stay-at-home order likely would be extended beyond its current April 22 expiration date, and likely until at least sometime in May. The County Executive did not specify when the order would be extended or what the new expiration date would be, and he emphasized that the County’s future plans depend on monitoring various factors and data that remain fluid. Page also indicated that the County likely would relax its order in stages.

April 6, 2020:

Governor Mike Parson issued an executive order suspending the statutory requirement that individuals appear in-person before a notary. Pursuant to the executive order, an individual situated in Missouri may appear before a Missouri notary via videoconference, subject to certain additional procedural requirements.

April 3, 2020:

At the direction of Governor Mike Parson, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior services issued a statewide stay-at-home order, effective April 6, 2020 and running until April 24, 2020. The order requires individuals to remain at home except for certain essential personal activities. The order also prohibits businesses from operating unless they perform essential functions under the guidelines issued by the federal Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency. Under that federal guidance document, essential functions include many businesses in the healthcare, food and agriculture, energy, and transportation sectors, as well as other industries.

April 2, 2020:

(Cole County): Cole County issued a stay-at-home order, effective March 28, that provides for the closing of businesses that do not qualify as Essential Businesses. The Order enumerates 42 categories of businesses and organizations that constitute Essential Business, including most businesses in the healthcare sector, most food-related businesses, banks and most financial-services institutions, construction and related trades, and many professional services like legal services and accounting. Businesses that do not constitute Essential Businesses must cease operations (other than remote work from home) except for minimum activities necessary to protect inventory, provide security, process payroll and employee benefits, and provide support for remote work. The order requires individuals to remain at home except for essential activities and participation in otherwise authorized work.

(St. Charles County): St. Charles County issued an order that imposes minimal practical limitations. The order requires individuals to remain at home “except to engage in (a) activities that they deem essential to their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being; and (b) employment.” Given the subjective nature of exception (a) and the fact that exception (b) does not distinguish between “essential” and “non-essential” businesses, the order imposes little in the way of binding limitations.

March 24, 2020:

Kansas and Missouri (KC Metro): Shelter-At-Home Orders go into effect for the City of Kansas City, Missouri, Kansas City, Kansas/Wyandotte County, Johnson County, Jackson County, Clay County, Platte County, Leavenworth County, Douglas County, and the City of Belton. The orders are in effect for 30 days.

March 23, 2020:

Shelter-At-Home orders went into effect for St. Louis City and St. Louis County.

March 22, 2020:

Kansas and Missouri: Officials from CORE 4 Partners of Johnson County, Kansas; Kansas City, Missouri; Jackson County, Missouri; and Wyandotte County/City of Kansas City, Kansas held a press conference discussing the metro area’s new stay at home orders. The officials indicated the orders are largely identical.

Clay County has also issued a similar Order, along with Platte County and the City of Belton.

March 21, 2020:

At the instruction of Governor Mike Parson, the Director of the Department of Health and Senior Services issued an Order imposing four statewide limitations. First, the Order prohibits “social gathering” involving more than ten people.  It appears that this category is intended not to cover business operations.  Second, the Order prohibits dine-in food service at restaurants and bars, but permits carry-out service.  Third, the Order prohibits visiting “nursing homes, long-term care facilities, retirement homes, or assisted living homes unless to provide critical assistance.”  Fourth, the Order orders all schools closed. The Order is effective at 12.01 Monday.

(City of St. Louis): Health Commissioner’s Order directly regulates both businesses and individuals.  With regard to businesses and non-profits, the Order permits all businesses to continue certain operations relating to protecting existing inventory and facilities, processing payroll and employee benefits, and facilitating remote work by employees.  The Order prohibits businesses from engaging in any other operations unless the business falls within 24 enumerated categories.  Exempt industries include most healthcare-related businesses, in-home care, hospice and long-term care, construction, professional services, such as accountants, lawyers, engineers, banks and financial institutions, utilities, and many food-related businesses, including grocery stores, food and beverage wholesaling, storage, warehousing, and distribution.

The Order directs residents of the City to “remain at home” except to perform essential household tasks, obtain or delver food, engage in outdoor walking or exercise, or to attend work permitted by the Order. The Order is effective at 6:00 PM Monday

(St. Louis County): Public Health Department Order also directly regulates both businesses and individuals.  With regard to businesses and non-profits, the Order defines “Essential Businesses” as those businesses that fall within 40 enumerated categories.  These enumerated categories encompass most healthcare-related businesses, in-home care, hospice and long-term care, construction, professional services, such as accountants, lawyers, engineers, banks and financial institutions, utilities, and many food-related businesses, including grocery stores, food and beverage wholesaling, storage, warehousing, and distribution. “Essential Businesses may continue necessary operations,” subject to maximal feasible adoption of social-distancing precautions.

Businesses that are not “Essential” must cease all operations except for work performed from employees’ homes, and certain limited operations relating to protecting existing inventory and facilities, processing payroll and employee benefits, and facilitating remote work by employees.

The Order’s limitations on individuals are substantially similar to those prescribed by the St. Louis City Order.

The City of Kansas City (Missouri) Order defines “Essential Businesses” as those that fall into 22 enumerated categories. These categories encompass most healthcare-related businesses, financial institutions, most food-related businesses, construction, utilities, transportation, grocery stores, hardware stores, gas stations, and professional services, such as legal or accounting services, when necessary to assist in compliance with legally mandated activities, among others. Essential Businesses may continue in-person operations, subject to implementing social-distancing practices. All other businesses must cease in-person operations, except for “minimum necessary activities to maintain the value of the business’s inventory and facilities, ensure security, process payroll and employee benefits, or for related functions,” as well as minimal activities to facilitate employees working from home.

With regard to individuals, the Order directs individuals to leave their homes only to perform essential activities, such as health related or to obtain necessary supplies, and to participate in otherwise permitted work activities.

Kansas City Metro (Kansas City Missouri): The CORE 4 partners of Jackson County, Missouri; Johnson County, Kansas; Kansas City, Missouri; and Wyandotte County/ Kansas City, Kansas; announced that effective Tuesday, March 24, 2020, all residents are directed to stay at home except for essential needs. The order will remain in place for 30 days, with consideration after 30 days as to whether to prolong the order.