Premium Properties : COVID-19 Updates – A WAY FOR US TO KEEP OUR RESIDENTS AND OUR COMMUNITY UPDATED WITH THE MOST RECENT NEWS AND UPCOMING PROGRAMS THAT CAN PROVIDE AID FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILIES.

Berkeley Businesses, organizations will be able to set mask rules for vaccinated people starting Feb. 16

Masks still strongly recommended; vaccines and boosters urged to further strengthen defenses

As cases and hospitalizations throughout the region continue to decline, vaccinated people in Berkeley will be able to choose whether to wear masks in those indoor settings where merchants or organizations have not set stricter rules.

The safest choice now and beyond Feb. 16 is to continue to mask indoors – especially in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces. Masking also protects the medically vulnerable or those unable to get vaccinated, like our youngest children.

The decision to give organizations and vaccinated individuals more choices on masking starting Feb. 16 reflects a shared view by twelve of the Bay Area’s Health Officers about the nature of this surge: declining cases of a hyper-infectious variant and, amidst greater vaccinations and boosters, much fewer cases of hospitalizations and severe illness.
“Our pandemic tools not only guide us through surges, but they also lay a foundation for safety once we are through the worst of a surge,” said Dr. Lisa B. Hernandez, the City of Berkeley Health Officer. “If you haven’t already, get vaccinated and boosted. Use masks to lower your risk, which includes your family’s medical vulnerability or the in places you are in.”

Masking still required in certain environments, other jurisdictions

This local shift means that Berkeley falls under a statewide mask order, which had previously been imposed only on jurisdictions that didn’t have their own local masking order.

The state will continue to require that both vaccinated and unvaccinated people mask in public transportation; health care settings; congregate settings like correctional facilities and homeless shelters; long term care facilities; and in K-12 schools and childcare settings.

Some jurisdictions will have stricter rules, based on the conditions there. Wherever you travel to, use local orders to guide the minimum precautions you should take.

Vaccination, boosters drive down severe illness

This surge had a rapid increase due to the hyper-infectiousness of Omicron. The decline has also been rapid.

The city is averaging 98 cases per day, based on an average of daily rates for the week ending Feb. 8. That represents a decline from the peak – 438 cases per day for the week ending January 14 – and cases continue to decrease.

Hospitalizations usually follow the rise in cases after a couple weeks. However, this most recent surge came in the context of very high vaccination and booster rates, which have consistently proven to be powerful in warding off severe illness, hospitalization and death.
Berkeley has a 92 percent vaccination rate with at least 56 percent of those fully vaccinated also getting boosters, helping keep hospitalization rates consistently low through this Omicron surge.
Use all tools to keep you, your loved ones safe
Use pandemic tools to lower your risk. When it comes to masking, vaccinated people will soon have more places to adjust to their comfort level.
Use boosters to stay up to date with vaccination. When you wear your mask, do so with a well-fitted cloth mask on top of a surgical one. Even better, use an N95 or KN95. You can also lower risk by meeting outdoors with others and keeping indoor spaces well ventilated.

Use testing to confirm illness. Isolate or quarantine to break cycles of spread.

Those who effectively use proven public health tools will continue to best navigate the pandemic.

In Some Fully Vaccinated Places, Employers Can Choose Whether Masks Should Be Worn

Mask mandate still applies in most public spaces

Berkeley, California (Thursday, October 28, 2021) – The City of Berkeley Health Officer will, on November 1, grant certain indoor settings that verify full vaccination the choice to allow people to remove face coverings.

The offices, gyms, places of worship and other hosts covered by the order would have to ensure that no one entering has fever, cough, congestion, nausea, headache, runny nose, muscle aches or any other COVID-19 symptoms.

These groups would also be controlled by:

not opening to the general public
limiting size to no more than 100 people
limiting access to the same, regularly gathering group
maintaining a list that identifies the names, dates, times of entry and exit of everyone who enters the indoor space
posting signs promoting self-assessment for symptoms around the exterior of the space

This decision to allow certain indoor spaces where entirely vaccinated people can choose to unmask reflects the decline in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations as well as the enduring power of vaccination to limit spread and, especially, severe illness.

Nonetheless, lowering risk by wearing a mask is something hosts or individuals may continue to choose. Universal masking remains particularly important when including guests with weaker immune systems or that are more vulnerable to severe illness.

“Vaccinations and face coverings protected our community and the region as a whole from the worst that the Delta variant inflicted elsewhere,” said Dr. Lisa B. Hernandez, the City of Berkeley Health Officer. “With that success, we now have some spaces where hosts can choose whether their guests must mask.”

Who is covered?

As long as they control their settings as described above, the following places would be allowed to set their own rules for indoor masking:

indoor offices
gyms
fitness centers
employee commuter vehicles
religious gatherings
other organized gatherings of individuals who meet regularly

Fully vaccinated people cannot be unmasked at indoor special events such as weddings, concerts, or conferences.

Hosts must verify vaccination status

If unvaccinated people are inside these controlled settings, everyone must mask. To verify vaccination, employers or hosts can use different documents that verify vaccination, and each should include:

name of the vaccinated person
type of vaccine provided
date(s) the dose or doses were given

Acceptable records with that information include:

A Vaccination Card issued by the CDC or foreign government
A photo, copy or digital copy of a Vaccination Card
healthcare provider record confirming vaccination
COVID-19 vaccine record issued via myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov or that of another state, local, or foreign government
An authentic digital record with QR code that, when scanned by a SMART Health Card reader, displays the vaccine recipient’s name, date of birth, vaccine dates and vaccine type.

A person is considered fully vaccinated 14 days after a CDC- or WHO-approved one-dose vaccine, such as Johnson & Johnson (Janssen), or 14 days after the second shot of a two-dose vaccine, such as Moderna or Pfizer.

Unvaccinated people are nearly 7 times more likely to get infected, 12 times more likely to be hospitalized and almost 18 times more likely to die, according to state data as of Oct. 9.

Get Vaccinated to Protect You, Us

If your organization has members who are not yet vaccinated, encourage them to do so. Any of the three approved vaccines will protect them, lower spread, and protect our community.

“Vaccinations, face coverings, and other easily available public health tools shepherded us to a safer future,” said Dr. Hernandez, the City Health Officer. “As more of us vaccinate and protect each other, we open up more safe spaces.”

In Person Showings & Open Houses: Safety Protocols Updated May 12, 2021

Effective Immediately: In-person showings of properties, like open houses, are now permitted and must follow the indoor gatherings capacity limits in the CDPH gatherings guidance. Check the Attendance section of the gatherings guidance for the capacity limits for each tier.

People who feel sick or have COVID-19 symptoms are not permitted to attend.

Physical distancing between different households must be maintained, and hand sanitizer should be made available. Face coverings are required. See the CDPH guidance for the use of face coverings for complete details and exceptions. All other restrictions in the real estate guidance remain in place.

Review the guidance, prepare a plan, and post the checklist for the real estate industryPDF in your workplace to show customers and employees that you’ve reduced the risk and are open for business.

ORANGE TIER: Full List of What’s Open & Closed

As of April 1, 2021, five Bay Area counties are in California’s orange tier of reopening.

Coronavirus in the Bay Area

San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Alameda and Marin counties are all deemed to have a ‘moderate’ risk of COVID-19 transmission. This is determined using 7-day average COVID trends.

Counties in the orange tier must have the following:

1.0 – 3.9 daily new cases (per 100k)
2.0 – 4.9% positive tests for entire county
Less than 5.3% positive tests for health equity quartile

With each tier, the state has different restrictions, mostly on capacity limits.

Coronavirus in the Bay Area: Vaccine tracker

Here is what’s open and what’s closed under the orange tier:

Entertainment

Amusement parks

Can open with modifications
– Max capacity 25%
– Indoor spaces max 25% capacity
– In-state visitors only

See guidance for Amusement parks and theme parks

Aquariums

Can open indoors with modifications
– Indoor activities max 50% capacity

See guidance for Museums, zoos, and aquariums

Bowling alleys

Can open indoors for naturally distanced activities, with modifications
– Max 25% capacity

See guidance for Movie theaters and family entertainment centers

Campgrounds

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Outdoor recreation, including campgrounds and playgrounds

Cardrooms

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 25% capacity

See guidance for Cardrooms and racetracks

Concert venues

Closed

Drive-in theaters

Can open outdoors only with modifications

See guidance for Movie theaters and family entertainment centers

Day camps

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Day camps

Family entertainment centers

Can open indoors for naturally distanced activities, with modifications
– Max 25% capacity
– +Bowling alleys
– +Escape rooms

See guidance for Movie theaters and family entertainment centers

Festivals

Closed

Film and TV production

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Music, film, and TV production

Hotels and lodging

Can open with modifications
– +Fitness centers (+25%)
– +Indoor pools

See guidance for Hotels and lodging

Live theater

Closed

Live performances

Can open outdoors only with modifications
– Max capacity 33%, including suites
– Max capacity of 67% with negative test result or proof of full vaccination
– Suite max capacity 25%
– In-state attendees only
– Advanced reservations only
– Restricted concessions and dining

See guidance for Live events and performances

Movie theaters

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 50% capacity or 200 people, whichever is fewer

See guidance for Movie theaters and family entertainment centers

Museums

Can open indoors with modifications
– Indoor activities max 50% capacity

See guidance for Museums, zoos, and aquariums

Music production

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Music, film, and TV production

Nightclubs

Closed

Outdoor playgrounds

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Outdoor recreation, including campgrounds and playgrounds

Outdoor recreation

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Outdoor recreation, including campgrounds and playgrounds

Indoor playgrounds (bounce centers/ball pits/laser tag)

Can open indoors for naturally distanced activities, with modifications
– Max 25% capacity
– Bowling alleys
– Climbing walls

See guidance for Movie theaters and family entertainment centers

Professional sports

See guidance for Live events and performances

Racetracks

Can open with modifications
– Permanent venues with live audiences outdoors only
– Max 20% capacity
– Regional attendees only (within 120 miles)
– Reservations required
– Assigned seating only
– In-seat concessions only (no concourse sales)

See guidance for Professional sports

Satellite wagering sites

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 25% capacity

See guidance for Cardrooms and racetracks

Short-term lodging rentals

Can open with modifications
– +Fitness centers (+25%)
– +Indoor pools

See guidance for Hotels and lodging

Skateparks

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Outdoor recreation, including campgrounds and playgrounds

Ski resorts

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Outdoor recreation, including campgrounds and playgrounds

Small private gatherings

Are allowed outdoors and indoors with modifications
– Masks and physical distancing required
– No more than 3 separate households attend (including the host’s)
– Gatherings should be 2 hours or less
– Those with symptoms must not attend
– Those at high risk of severe illness strongly encouraged not to attend
– Singing, shouting, chanting, cheering, or exercising strongly discouraged outdoors and not permitted indoors

See guidance for gatherings and holidays

State beaches

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Outdoor recreation, including campgrounds and playgrounds

State forests

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Outdoor recreation, including campgrounds and playgrounds

State-managed lakes and reservoirs

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Outdoor recreation, including campgrounds and playgrounds

State parks

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Outdoor recreation, including campgrounds and playgrounds

Swimming pools

Can open outdoors with modifications. Drowning prevention classes, including swim lessons with certified instructors, are permitted indoors and outdoors.

See guidance for Gyms and fitness centers, Outdoor recreation, including campgrounds and playgrounds, and Hotels and lodging

Theme parks

Smaller parks open with modifications
– 25% capacity or 500 people, whichever is fewer
– Outdoor attractions only
– In-county visitors only
– Reservations or advance tickets required

See guidance for Amusement parks and theme parks

Weddings

Indoor ceremonies permitted with modifications. Outdoor and indoor receptions permitted for up to three households, including host and guests. Indoor receptions are strongly discouraged.
– Max 50% capacity

See guidance for Places of worship and cultural ceremonies and gatherings

Youth and adult recreational sports

See guidance for Youth and adult recreational sports

Some outdoor high-contact sports allowed, and some indoor low-contact sports permitted. See list.

Zoos

Can open indoors with modifications
– Indoor activities max 50% capacity

See guidance for Museums, zoos, and aquariums

Care/Services

Appliance repair shops

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited ser v ices

Auto repair shops

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Banks and credit unions

Can open with modifications

Body waxing studios

Can open indoors with modifications

Childcare

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Childcare

Car washes

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Construction

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Construction

Doctors and dentists

Can open with modifications

Dog walkers

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Door-to-door sales and services

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Dry cleaners

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Electricians

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Electrologists

Can open indoors with modifications

See guidance for Personal care services

Estheticians

Can open indoors with modifications

See guidance for Personal care services

Food banks

Can open with modifications

Fire stations

Can open with modifications

Hair salons and barbershops

Can open indoors with modifications

See guidance for Hair salons and barbershops

Handypersons/general contractors

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Gas stations

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Government services

Can open with modifications

Hospitals and urgent care

Can open with modifications

HVAC services

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Landscapers

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Laundromats and laundry services

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Massage therapy studios

Can open indoors with modifications

See guidance for Personal care services

Nail salons

Can open indoors with modifications

See guidance for Personal care services

Pet groomers

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Piercing shops

Can open indoors with modifications

See guidance for Personal care services

Pharmacies

Can open with modifications

See guidance for pharmacies and retail

Plumbing services

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Police stations

Can open with modifications

Residential and janitorial cleaning services

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Skin care services

Can open indoors with modifications

See guidance for Personal care services

Tattoo parlors

Can open indoors with modifications

See guidance for Personal care services

Retail/Food

Bars (where no meals provided)

Can open outdoors only with modifications

Bookstores

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Breweries (where no meals provided)

Can open outdoors indoors with modifications
– Max 25% capacity, or 100 people, whichever is fewer

See guidance for Restaurants, wineries, and bars

Clothing and shoe stores

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Convenience stores

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Distilleries (where no meals provided)

Can open outdoors indoors with modifications
– Max 25% capacity, or 100 people, whichever is fewer

See guidance for Restaurants, wineries, and bars

Farmers markets

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Florists

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Grocery stores

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Home and furnishing stores

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Jewelry stores

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Libraries

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Ret a il

Restaurants (dine-in)

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 50% capacity or 200 people, whichever is fewer

See guidance for Restaurants, wineries, and bars

Restaurants (take-out and delivery)

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Restaurants, wineries, and bars

Retailers

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Shopping malls

Can open indoors with modifications
– Closed common areas
– Reduced capacity food courts (see Restaurants)

Sporting goods stores

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Swap meets

Can open with modifications
– Closed common areas
– Reduced capacity food courts (see Restaurants)

See guidance for Shopping centers

Wineries

Can open outdoors indoors with modifications
– Max 25% capacity, or 100 people, whichever is fewer

See guidance for Restaurants, wineries, and bars

See guidance for Shopping centers

Toy stores

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Religion

Churches

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 50% capacity

See guidance for Places of worship and cultural ceremonies

Cultural ceremonies

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 50% capacity or 200 people, whichever is fewer

Funeral homes

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 50% capacity

See guidance for Places of worship and cultural ceremonies

Mosques

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 50% capacity

See guidance for Places of worship and cultural ceremonies

Places of worship

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 50% capacity

See guidance for Places of worship and cultural ceremonies

Synagogues

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 50% capacity

See guidance for Places of worship and cultural ceremonies

Temples

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 50% capacity

See guidance for Places of worship and cultural ceremonies

Fitness/Other

Convention centers

Closed

See guidance for Places of worship and cultural ceremonies

Dance studios

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 25% capacity
– +Indoor pools

Gyms and fitness centers

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 25% capacity
– +Indoor pools

See guidance for Gyms and fitness centers

Higher education institutions

Capacity for indoor lectures and student gatherings must be limited to 50% or 200 people, whichever is less. Some courses conducted in certain indoor settings, like labs and studio arts, may be open at regular capacity. Conduct student activities virtually when possible.

See guidance for Higher education

Offices (non-essential businesses)

Can open indoors with modifications
– Encourage working remotely

See guidance for Office workspaces

Saunas and steam rooms

Closed

See guidance for Gyms and fitness centers

Schools

Schools may reopen fully for in-person instruction. Local school officials will decide whether and when that will occur.

See guidance for schools, cohorting FAQs, and CA Safe Schools for All hub

State and local government offices

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Office workspaces

Yoga studios

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 25% capacity
– +Indoor pools

See g

As of April 1, 2021, five Bay Area counties are in California’s orange tier of reopening.

Coronavirus in the Bay Area

San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Alameda and Marin counties are all deemed to have a ‘moderate’ risk of COVID-19 transmission. This is determined using 7-day average COVID trends.

Counties in the orange tier must have the following:

1.0 – 3.9 daily new cases (per 100k)
2.0 – 4.9% positive tests for entire county
Less than 5.3% positive tests for health equity quartile

With each tier, the state has different restrictions, mostly on capacity limits.

Coronavirus in the Bay Area: Vaccine tracker

Here is what’s open and what’s closed under the orange tier:

Entertainment

Amusement parks

Can open with modifications
– Max capacity 25%
– Indoor spaces max 25% capacity
– In-state visitors only

See guidance for Amusement parks and theme parks

Aquariums

Can open indoors with modifications
– Indoor activities max 50% capacity

See guidance for Museums, zoos, and aquariums

Bowling alleys

Can open indoors for naturally distanced activities, with modifications
– Max 25% capacity

See guidance for Movie theaters and family entertainment centers

Campgrounds

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Outdoor recreation, including campgrounds and playgrounds

Cardrooms

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 25% capacity

See guidance for Cardrooms and racetracks

Concert venues

Closed

Drive-in theaters

Can open outdoors only with modifications

See guidance for Movie theaters and family entertainment centers

Day camps

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Day camps

Family entertainment centers

Can open indoors for naturally distanced activities, with modifications
– Max 25% capacity
– +Bowling alleys
– +Escape rooms

See guidance for Movie theaters and family entertainment centers

Festivals

Closed

Film and TV production

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Music, film, and TV production

Hotels and lodging

Can open with modifications
– +Fitness centers (+25%)
– +Indoor pools

See guidance for Hotels and lodging

Live theater

Closed

Live performances

See guidance for Live events and performances

Movie theaters

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 50% capacity or 200 people, whichever is fewer

See guidance for Movie theaters and family entertainment centers

Museums

Can open indoors with modifications
– Indoor activities max 50% capacity

See guidance for Museums, zoos, and aquariums

Music production

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Music, film, and TV production

Nightclubs

Closed

Outdoor playgrounds

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Outdoor recreation, including campgrounds and playgrounds

Outdoor recreation

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Outdoor recreation, including campgrounds and playgrounds

Indoor playgrounds (bounce centers/ball pits/laser tag)

Can open indoors for naturally distanced activities, with modifications
– Max 25% capacity
– Bowling alleys
– Climbing walls

See guidance for Movie theaters and family entertainment centers

Professional sports

See guidance for Live events and performances

Racetracks

See guidance for Professional sports

Satellite wagering sites

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 25% capacity

See guidance for Cardrooms and racetracks

Short-term lodging rentals

Can open with modifications
– +Fitness centers (+25%)
– +Indoor pools

See guidance for Hotels and lodging

Skateparks

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Outdoor recreation, including campgrounds and playgrounds

Ski resorts

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Outdoor recreation, including campgrounds and playgrounds

Small private gatherings

See guidance for gatherings and holidays

State beaches

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Outdoor recreation, including campgrounds and playgrounds

State forests

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Outdoor recreation, including campgrounds and playgrounds

State-managed lakes and reservoirs

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Outdoor recreation, including campgrounds and playgrounds

State parks

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Outdoor recreation, including campgrounds and playgrounds

Swimming pools

Can open outdoors with modifications. Drowning prevention classes, including swim lessons with certified instructors, are permitted indoors and outdoors.

See guidance for Gyms and fitness centers, Outdoor recreation, including campgrounds and playgrounds, and Hotels and lodging

Theme parks

Smaller parks open with modifications
– 25% capacity or 500 people, whichever is fewer
– Outdoor attractions only
– In-county visitors only
– Reservations or advance tickets required

See guidance for Amusement parks and theme parks

Weddings

See guidance for Places of worship and cultural ceremonies and gatherings

Youth and adult recreational sports

See guidance for Youth and adult recreational sports

Some outdoor high-contact sports allowed, and some indoor low-contact sports permitted. See list.

Zoos

Can open indoors with modifications
– Indoor activities max 50% capacity

See guidance for Museums, zoos, and aquariums

Care/Services

Appliance repair shops

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited ser v ices

Auto repair shops

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Banks and credit unions

Can open with modifications

Body waxing studios

Can open indoors with modifications

Childcare

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Childcare

Car washes

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Construction

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Construction

Doctors and dentists

Can open with modifications

Dog walkers

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Door-to-door sales and services

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Dry cleaners

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Electricians

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Electrologists

Can open indoors with modifications

See guidance for Personal care services

Estheticians

Can open indoors with modifications

See guidance for Personal care services

Food banks

Can open with modifications

Fire stations

Can open with modifications

Hair salons and barbershops

Can open indoors with modifications

See guidance for Hair salons and barbershops

Handypersons/general contractors

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Gas stations

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Government services

Can open with modifications

Hospitals and urgent care

Can open with modifications

HVAC services

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Landscapers

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Laundromats and laundry services

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Massage therapy studios

Can open indoors with modifications

See guidance for Personal care services

Nail salons

Can open indoors with modifications

See guidance for Personal care services

Pet groomers

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Piercing shops

Can open indoors with modifications

See guidance for Personal care services

Pharmacies

Can open with modifications

See guidance for pharmacies and retail

Plumbing services

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Police stations

Can open with modifications

Residential and janitorial cleaning services

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Limited services

Skin care services

Can open indoors with modifications

See guidance for Personal care services

Tattoo parlors

Can open indoors with modifications

See guidance for Personal care services

Retail/Food

Bars (where no meals provided)

Can open outdoors only with modifications

Bookstores

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Breweries (where no meals provided)

Can open outdoors indoors with modifications
– Max 25% capacity, or 100 people, whichever is fewer

See guidance for Restaurants, wineries, and bars

Clothing and shoe stores

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Convenience stores

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Distilleries (where no meals provided)

Can open outdoors indoors with modifications
– Max 25% capacity, or 100 people, whichever is fewer

See guidance for Restaurants, wineries, and bars

Farmers markets

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Florists

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Grocery stores

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Home and furnishing stores

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Jewelry stores

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Libraries

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Ret a il

Restaurants (dine-in)

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 50% capacity or 200 people, whichever is fewer

See guidance for Restaurants, wineries, and bars

Restaurants (take-out and delivery)

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Restaurants, wineries, and bars

Retailers

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Shopping malls

Can open indoors with modifications
– Closed common areas
– Reduced capacity food courts (see Restaurants)

Sporting goods stores

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Swap meets

Can open with modifications
– Closed common areas
– Reduced capacity food courts (see Restaurants)

See guidance for Shopping centers

Wineries

Can open outdoors indoors with modifications
– Max 25% capacity, or 100 people, whichever is fewer

See guidance for Restaurants, wineries, and bars

See guidance for Shopping centers

Toy stores

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Retail

Religion

Churches

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 50% capacity

See guidance for Places of worship and cultural ceremonies

Cultural ceremonies

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 50% capacity or 200 people, whichever is fewer

Funeral homes

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 50% capacity

See guidance for Places of worship and cultural ceremonies

Mosques

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 50% capacity

See guidance for Places of worship and cultural ceremonies

Places of worship

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 50% capacity

See guidance for Places of worship and cultural ceremonies

Synagogues

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 50% capacity

See guidance for Places of worship and cultural ceremonies

Temples

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 50% capacity

See guidance for Places of worship and cultural ceremonies

Fitness/Other

Convention centers

Closed

See guidance for Places of worship and cultural ceremonies

Dance studios

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 25% capacity
– +Indoor pools

Gyms and fitness centers

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 25% capacity
– +Indoor pools

See guidance for Gyms and fitness centers

Higher education institutions

See guidance for Higher education

Offices (non-essential businesses)

Can open indoors with modifications
– Encourage working remotely

See guidance for Office workspaces

Saunas and steam rooms

Closed

See guidance for Gyms and fitness centers

Schools

Schools may reopen fully for in-person instruction. Local school officials will decide whether and when that will occur.

See guidance for schools, cohorting FAQs, and CA Safe Schools for All hub

State and local government offices

Can open with modifications

See guidance for Office workspaces

Yoga studios

Can open indoors with modifications
– Max 25% capacity
– +Indoor pools

See guidance for Gyms and fitness centers

uidance for Gyms and fitness centers

Vaccinations Available: 65+ and those at increased risk in food, agriculture, education, childcare and emergency services

Appointments available March 3

COVID-19 vaccination appointments are available for Berkeley residents who are at least 65 years old as well as anyone living or working in Berkeley that is at increased risk of exposure in the following workplace sectors: food and agriculture, education and childcare, or emergency services. These appointments align with state guidelines to include all of the state’s definition of 1B and also includes other previously allowed categories, such as those who live or work in Berkeley and are currently employed in grocery stores, convenience stores, or in-person education and childcare settings. Those who fit into one of these groups can now register for an appointment at a vaccination site at the foot of Buchanan Street in Albany on Wednesday, March 3. Make an appointment for Wednesday, March 3 After scheduling, you will receive a confirmation email with the date and time of your appointment. We will verify appointments with identification at the site. You will not be asked about immigration status. Curative staff will assist you with scheduling your second dose appointment after you receive your shot, while you are waiting in the post-vaccination holding area. For technical support or assistance scheduling your appointment, call Curative, Inc. at 888-702-9042. COVID-19 vaccines are free to everyone. You do not need insurance to get a vaccine. However, those who have medical insurance will need to provide their insurance information. Employment verification required for those under 65 For employment-based eligibility, we are following California Department of Public Health vaccine allocation guidelines. For questions about Phase 1B eligibility requirements, call the California COVID-19 hotline at 1-833-422-4255. To qualify for these appointments as part of Phase 1B, people under 65 must live or work in Berkeley and work in the following sectors: food and agriculture education and childcare emergency services Those receiving the vaccine based on their employment will need to provide documentation to confirm eligibility at the site. They can use: a recent pay stub a letter from their employer (download a sample letter) an employee ID badge If using an employee ID badge without a picture, you will need a picture ID to verify identity. Instructions: uploading photo of medical ID card If you have health insurance, you’ll be asked to upload a photo of your medical ID card when scheduling your appointment. Follow these steps to add your card: Take a photo of your card. Send the photo to your email. Open email and save the photo to a file on your computer. Upload the photo from the saved file using file manager. If you are unable to do this on the insurance page, click on the box that says “I do not have my insurance card” and click continue to move to the next screen. You may have to enter some additional medical information. Bring your medical card with you to the appointment. If you do not have health insurance, disregard these instructions. You do not need insurance to be vaccinated and will not be charged to receive a vaccine. Transport option for Berkeley seniors, disabled For Berkeley residents who need assistance getting to the site, a ride service supported by the City can help some people get to their appointments for a $15 fee. After you’ve scheduled your vaccination appointment, call Easy Does It at (510) 704-2111 to check your eligibility, register for services, and schedule a ride. Easy Does It will ask health screening questions to ensure the safety of the rider and the driver. Personal protective equipment is worn by drivers, and face coverings are required of riders. Vaccinations also available at the Oakland Coliseum and CVS, Rite-Aid, and Walgreens pharmacies Everyone in Phase 1A and Phase 1B is also eligible to get vaccinated at the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum mass vaccination site. Check availability and schedule appointments online at myturn.ca.gov or by calling 1-833-422-4255. When asked “What County do you live in,” select “Alameda County.” CVS, Rite-Aid, and Walgreens pharmacies are also now scheduling COVID-19 vaccinations for health care workers and those at least 65 years old. Use the links below to schedule an appointment. CVS COVID-19 vaccine appointments Rite-Aid COVID-19 vaccine appointments Walgreens COVID-19 vaccine appointments Keep in mind that supplies are limited and wait times may be long. With vaccine supply limited, sign up for notification lists The limited national supply of COVID-19 vaccines means that it will take many months for vaccines to reach the general population. No matter what your age, you can prepare by understanding what your health care provider’s process is and signing up for general notification lists. Supply is limited everywhere, so sign up for as many lists as you can to maximize opportunities to receive a vaccine. To stay informed about all opportunities available to you, we recommend Berkeley residents sign up for: Berkeley Public Health vaccine notification list Alameda County resident vaccine notification list State of California (“My Turn”) vaccine notification list No matter what list you are on, keep tabs on your email and take immediate action when you receive a notification that you are eligible to make an appointment.

City of Berkeley: COVID-19 Vaccine

SIGN UP TO BE NOTIFIED WHEN A COVID-19 VACCINE IS AVAILABLE FOR YOU
Residents 75 and over, health care workers in next phase of City vaccinations

Berkeley, California (Wednesday, January 20, 2021) – With vaccine doses still limited nationwide, Berkeley Public Health is looking to vaccinate residents 75 and over as well as healthcare workers in the city who have not been able to get vaccinations through their health provider or workplace.

Those interested can sign up on a notification list, which will be used to prioritize vaccinations through the City of Berkeley or one of several community partners. People who are not part of a group currently being vaccinated can sign up to be notified when eligibility expands, or when appointments become broadly available.

These vaccinations administered by the City align with state guidelines, which prioritize those most at risk of infection or serious COVID-19 illness. While national vaccine supply is low, the City’s vaccinations also fill in gaps and identify many not vaccinated by health care providers or medical workplaces.

Those with a medical provider, such as Kaiser or Sutter Health, should sign up with them.

Vaccines are being distributed through multiple channels

People at high-risk of infection or serious illness have been getting vaccines through multiple channels.

Hospital systems, such as the Berkeley campus of the Alta Bates Summit Medical Center, get vaccines directly from the state to administer to staff and patients.
A federal program using CVS/Walgreens vaccinates residents of participating skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, and similar congregate care settings for older or medically vulnerable individuals
University Health Services, the health service for UC Berkeley, operates across multiple jurisdictions and administers its own limited supply.
Many health care workers who live or work in the City are vaccinated through their employer.
Most people with health care are expected to get vaccinated through their medical provider.

Large health care providers, such as Kaiser Permanente and Sutter Health, receive their own supply of vaccine from the state and are beginning to schedule appointments for members 75 or older:

Sutter Health patients who are healthcare workers or age 75 and older can schedule appointments through their website or by calling (844) 987-6115.
Kaiser Permanente has stated they will contact members who are 75 or older directly when appointments are available. Kaiser Permanente members who are health care workers, emergency medical service providers, or long term care patients can schedule an e-visit to request a vaccine appointment.

Everyone will get the vaccine eventually, but it will take time.

These highly effective vaccines are free to all. As federal supplies eventually increase, COVID-19 vaccines will also be available to all.

Berkeley Public Health has thus far requested the maximum. Of the 1,100 doses received by the City, 1,013 — or 92 percent — have been administered using re-assigned City staff across all City departments.

The current two vaccines — Moderna and Pfizer – are for adults and each require two doses to have roughly 95 percent efficacy.

All tools needed to end the pandemic

Each vaccination helps build up our resilience to the virus, even as it still kills thousands across the nation.

The vaccine is not a panacea. We need to use all the tools the CDC has identified to fight this pandemic. We all – even those who are vaccinated – need to wear masks and avoid gatherings. Many people remain vulnerable.

Each time someone wears a mask, avoids a gathering, keeps distance from other households or gets a vaccine, they help protect our community.

Learn from your health care provider how they are scheduling vaccinations. If you would like to receive information from the City of Berkeley as eligibility expands or appointments become available, sign up for our notification list.

Links

Sign up with Alameda County. You can also register at the Alameda County notification site. You will get notified when a vaccine is available and receive details on where to be vaccinated.

Sign up with the California state notification site. You can also check your vaccine eligibility and register for updates at the State notification site (which will be connected to the Oakland Coliseum site that will open on 2/16).

This is the type of notices you can receive when you are signed up: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/CABERKE/bulletins/2c1c0bc

City of Berkeley COVID-19 Vaccine notification sign-up

COVID-19 vaccine information (City of Berkeley)

Vaccines (covid19.ca.gov)

COVID-19 Vaccine fact sheet (California Department of Public Health)

About the COVID-19 Vaccine (CDC)

New COVID-19 Testing Sites In Berkeley

Use tests to identify when to isolate

City of Berkeley, City Manager’s Office: Berkeley, California (Thursday, January 14, 2021) – You now have more places to get a COVID-19 test in Berkeley to help more quickly identify whether you or your loved ones should isolate and quarantine to stop the virus’ spread.

Our first pop-up sites will rotate between downtown locations as well as sites in south and west Berkeley.

By increasing options, we hope more people will get tested – especially as the current surge shows the virus is spreading more than ever.

Tuesday, January 19, Harold Way, between Kittredge and Allston
Wednesday, January 20, Berkeley Bowl West, 920 Heinz Ave.
Thursday January 21, Harold Way, between Kittredge and Allston
Tuesday January 26, Harold Way, between Kittredge and Allston
Wednesday, January 27, Meyer Sound, 1025 Ashby Ave. Parking Lot
Thursday, January 28, Harold Way, between Kittredge and Allston

People can make an appointment online. These tests are performed by Optum, a provider funded by the state and coordinated by the City.

Use tests and symptom recognition as one tool to protect yourself and our community.

Tests and recognition of COVID-19 symptoms are crucial to stopping the spread.

Anyone who tests positive, has been told by a medical provider that they are presumed positive, has COVID-19 symptoms or has symptoms after being exposed to a test-positive case within the past two weeks should take immediate action to isolate. Those who are exposed should quarantine.

Negative tests don’t mean you’re not infected

People should not use a negative test to gather or loosen the public health actions that are essential to keeping our community safe during this unprecedented surge.

A single negative test result does not mean a person is not infected with the virus. People may unknowingly spread the virus if they don’t quarantine after an exposure. Even if testing negative early, they may become positive at a later point.

Last Friday, the FDA issued a safety message about “false negatives” in testing from Curative, a test vendor used around the region and in Berkeley. The City has reached out to the company and the state to get more information.

If anyone is concerned about a particular test approach, we offer other options as a City and many more are available through the region or through their health care providers. We recommend that people talk to their doctor about individual diagnostic decisions.

Protect yourself before a test is needed

Protective actions – such as staying home, wearing face coverings, avoiding crowds and keeping six feet from those not in your household – are essential because the virus may not be detected by any test for two weeks.

Get tested. You’ll help protect yourself, your family and our community.

Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program

As the First Round Ends, the Second Application Round BEGINS on February 2^nd, 2021!

Funding will support small businesses that have struggled due to the COVID-19 pandemic

Sacramento, CA – California’s Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA), part of the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), today announced that Round 1 for the Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program has closed.

With more than 300,000 applications successfully completed, application approval notifications will be sent out Friday, January 15 through Friday, January 22. Funds will be disbursed over a 45-day verification period beginning Friday, January 22.

A second round of applications will open at 8:00 a.m. February 2 and will run through 6:00 p.m. February 8. Applicants who submitted all necessary documents in the first round and met eligibility requirements, but did not receive a grant, do not need to reapply; their applications will be rolled over for consideration in the second round.

“There is no question that small business are hurting, and the reality of this pandemic demands urgent relief now to help those who need it most,” said Dee Dee Myers, GO-Biz Director. “Before COVID-19, the 4.1 million small businesses that call this state home created two-thirds of California’s net new jobs and employed nearly half of all private-sector employees. It is crucial that we do everything we can to put more money into the hands of impacted small business owners.”

On January 5, Governor Newsom previewed his Equitable Recovery for California’s Businesses and Jobs plan – part of his proposed 2021-22 state budget – which called for immediate legislative action on $575 million in additional grants for the California Relief Grant Program. This investment will add to the initial $500 million allocation announced November 30, bringing the total amount for the Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program to $1.075 billion.

The Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program offers grants up to $25,000 to micro and small businesses and nonprofits that have been impacted by the pandemic. It is not a first-come, first-served program, nor a rolling approval process. Grants will be distributed across the state, with priority given to regions and industries impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, disadvantaged communities and underserved small business groups. All applications will be considered and prioritized based on impact.

Due to the overwhelming demand, the Round 1 application deadline was extended from January 8 to January 13 to ensure interested small businesses and nonprofits had the opportunity to apply.

Mission-based lenders and small business advisory and technical assistance providers will continue to help small businesses with the application process in multiple languages and formats in the second round. Many of the State-supported small business centers, which prioritize the expansion of technical assistance to underserved business groups, will also be also available to help. For more information on grant requirements and eligibility, please visit CAReliefGrant.com.

Small Business Damage Mitigation Fund

The City of Berkeley’s COVID-19 Business Damage Mitigation Fund has funds available to help small businesses that have sustained damages during the Shelter-in-Place period with a rolling deadline until all funds are exhausted. Learn more about the fund and apply for a grant (up to $2,500).

Paycheck Protection Program – Round 2

After months of waiting for much-needed relief, small businesses are finally getting renewed support from the federal government. The new stimulus package approved by Congress comprises $900 billion in virus relief funds, including $284.5 billion to reopen and strengthen the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for first time and second time borrowers. Please note that you can apply for either a first or second draw offering two and a half times your payroll and for self-employed people with no employees you can just use your 2019 Schedule C earnings.

With the changes, borrowers can now qualify for up to $10 million ($2 million for repeat borrowers).

How and When to Apply:

You can apply NOW through March 31, 2021! Applications are attached.

SBA is currently accepting First and Second Draw PPP loan applications from participating lenders. Applications will first become available through community financial institutions, a subset of banks and other lenders who meet special criteria, with larger financial institutions soon to follow. PPP loans carry an interest rate of 1% and can be fully forgiven—principal and interest—if spending requirements are met. Consult your bank to find out about their application Process.

The First-Time Borrowers & Second Draw Applications are both attached.

PPP Forgivable Loans are Available to First-Time Borrowers from the Following Groups:

1. Businesses with 500 or fewer employees that are eligible for other SBA 7(a) loans.

2. Sole proprietors

3. Independent contractors

4. Eligible self-employed individuals

5. Non-profits, including churches.

6. Accommodation and food services operations with fewer than 300 employees per physical location.

To receive a PPP second draw loan, eligible entities must:

1. Have previously received a First Draw PPP Loan and will or has used the full amount only for authorized uses.

2. Employ no more than 300 employees (as opposed to 500 employees in the first round of PPP).

3. Demonstrate at least a 25% reduction in gross receipts in the first, second, or third quarter of 2020 relative to the same quarter in 2019.

For Assistance with Finding a Lender:

1. Divvy/Lendio have already begun accepting applications.

2. Lender Match

3. View all lenders near you on a MAP.

4. For BERKELEY Businesses, check with Berkeley OED.

Additionally, you can also see the 82-page interim final rules (IFRs) for first-time borrowers or the 42-page IFR guidelines for businesses that previously received a PPP loan issued this week by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and Treasury. All Second Draw PPP Loans will have the same terms regardless of lender or borrower.

There are limitations on the amount of money a business can borrow under the program. The specific amount each business is eligible for is calculated based on its payroll expenses, with food and hospitality businesses qualifying for additional funds, but the maximum loan amount for first-time borrowers is set at $10 million.

Just like during the first rendition of the program, 60% of the loan amount must go toward payroll. But this time around, the categories of eligible expenses for the remaining 40% have been expanded to include worker protections such as personal protective equipment, damages from looting or vandalism that took place in 2020, and professional services like cloud.

As the First Round Ends, the Second Application Round BEGINS on February 2nd, 2021!

As the First Round Ends, the Second Application Round BEGINS on February 2^nd, 2021!