As of today, Monday, Jan. 4, restaurants may once again open at 50 percent capacity for indoor dining if they have completed the online self-certification process. Municipalities that have implemented more restrictive mitigation efforts remain in place.
“Self-certifying is a simple way to promote an establishment’s commitment to its patrons’ health and safety,” said Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary Dennis Davin. “As we enter a new year with a vaccine to contribute to COVID-19 mitigation efforts, the Wolf Administration is hopeful and looking forward to supporting restaurants as much as possible in getting back to business as usual.”
The self-certification process is open to all restaurants, private social clubs and food service businesses that serve dine-in, sit down food in a regular, non-event capacity. Social distancing, masking and other mitigation measures must be employed to protect workers and patrons.
Additionally, starting today, restaurants, private social clubs and food service businesses serving alcohol for on-site consumption must end alcohol sales at 11 p.m., and all alcoholic beverages must be removed from patrons by midnight. On-premises alcohol consumption is prohibited unless part of a meal; cocktails to-go and carryout beverages are allowed.
There is a Frequently Asked Questions available online for restaurant owners and the public, along with updated restaurant guidance.
Business owners with questions about the self-certification program can contact covidselfcert@pa.gov.
