Covid-19 in Los Angeles
Los Angeles Business Closures
As of November 27, Los Angeles County entered another round of shutdowns. With cases of Covid-19 continuing to rise in staggering numbers, the city is implementing measures to combat the spread of the virus and save lives. The new regulations mainly impact business owners, but the recommendation is for everyone to stay home as often as possible.
Business owners were already required to meet specific Covid-19 regulations, but new restrictions are being added to the list. Essential retail businesses are now required to limit their customer intake to 35 percent of their store’s typical capacity. For any nonessential retail businesses, their capacity is 80 percent less than usual at any given time. As for food service, restaurants are unable to accept dine-in guests, indoors or outdoors. It is crucial to limit the number of people in any one space to reduce the spread of the virus, which is why patio dining has been closed.
While retail businesses risk a drop in their number of customers due to increased wait times for entry, the impact of new regulations for restaurants has been more visibly difficult. As a result of patio closures, restaurants are losing revenue, and restaurant staff are losing their jobs.
To keep small and local businesses afloat, we must purchase goods from within our communities. There are new rules, but establishments are still open for business! Although your farmers market grocery trip may take a bit longer than usual, and while buying clothes in-store may be more fun than shopping online, it is important to show support in such uncertain times.
Even food from your favorite restaurant isn’t off the table with these new restrictions. Ordering food is still possible with take-out, pick-up, and delivery options. Keep in mind that it is best to purchase your delivery order via the restaurant’s website, this way, you maximize the amount of money going directly to the business! However, you can also order from some restaurants using food delivery apps.
On a positive note, beaches and hiking trails are still open. While staying home is absolutely the safest choice, it is natural to need a refresher every once in a while. Getting outdoors and soaking up the sunshine can do wonders for your physical and mental health. You can check out a list of a few of the best beaches in LA here. Please be mindful of other people’s health on your trip; bring a mask and social distance!
The closure will remain in effect through December 20. Although shutdowns are not easy, living in Los Angeles County means having access to all sorts of safe opportunities for fun.
If you are interested in reading more about the closures and learning which activities are still available to you, check out this article from the Los Angeles Times.
Stay healthy and stay safe!