We’ve been receiving many inquiries about the State’s lifting of the Regional Stay Home Order on January 25, 2021, and what that means to your communities.  As of February 12, 2021, all Southern California counties are still in the State’s most restrictive “Purple Tier.”  Here is a summary of Purple Tier Restrictions that apply now to Orange, San Diego, Los Angeles, Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. 

Gyms:  Under the Purple Tier, gyms may operate outdoors only. Outdoor operations may be conducted under a tent, canopy, or other sun shelter so long as no more than one side is closed, allowing sufficient outdoor air movement. In addition, you must follow the State’s “COVID 19 INDUSTRY GUIDANCE: Fitness Facilities,” complete a “COVID-19 General Checklist for Fitness Facilities,” and meet any local guidelines.

While Orange, San Diego, Riverside and San Bernardino follow the State’s guidance, LA County has some additional protocols on outdoor gyms available here as well.

Pools: Outdoor swimming pools may operate in accordance with the guidelines contained in the State’s “COVID-19 INDUSTRY GUIDANCE: Fitness Facilities” which includes specific “additional considerations” for operating “communal restrooms, shower facilities, swimming pools and aquatic venues.”

All indoor swimming pools must remain closed, with the sole exception of drowning prevention classes with certified instructors that may be conducted indoors. 

LA County has some additional protocols on swimming pools available here.

Hot Tubs and Saunas:  Outdoor hot tubs may open as long as they are used only by a single household group at a time, or where six feet of social distancing can be maintained.  Be sure to follow the Industry Guidance for pools, referenced above.

Any indoor hot tubs, steam rooms and saunas must remain closed (except at private residences).

Playgrounds: Outdoor playgrounds can open with modifications. Be sure to follow the State’s Sept 28, 2020 correspondence regarding “Outdoor Playgrounds and other Outdoor Recreational Facilities.”

LA County also has some additional protocols on outdoor playgrounds available here.

Clubhouses, Restaurants and Bars: Under the Purple Tier, restaurants and wineries may operate outdoors only with modifications. In addition, you must follow the State’s “COVID-19 INDUSTRY GUIDANCE: Restaurants” or “COVID-19 INDUSTRY GUIDANCE: Wineries and Tasting Rooms” along with all local guidelines.  Bars (serving no food) regrettably remain closed.

If your community offers take-out dining, they must also comply with the State’s “COVID-19 INDUSTRY GUIDANCE: Restaurants.”

Onsite Management: The State continues to encourage “remote work” for non-essential workers. As we all know, association managers are essential and therefore offices remain open. Comply with the State’s “COVID-19 INDUSTRY GUIDANCE: Office Workspaces” and make all required postings.  Board meetings should be held electronically via video conference.

Other News.  Finally, you may also have heard that the US Supreme Court ruled in favor of churches on February 5.  The State has updated its COVID guidance following the Court decision.  All places of worship including churches, temples and mosques may now open indoors at 25% capacity.

We wish you and your loved ones remain safe and healthy during these difficult times.

Community Legal Advisors Inc.

Michael J. Alti, Esq.