Gov. Cooper extended Executive Order 224 through Executive Order 256 on April 1, which recommends businesses ask employees to show proof of vaccination or they should do regular COVID tests. Executive Order 256 is in place through July 15. All capacity restrictions and social distancing requirements remain lifted for restaurants, bars, and meeting spaces in hotels through Executive Order 215.
Currently, there is not a statewide mask mandate in place. As of March 15, there are no counties, cities, or towns that have indoor face mask mandates in public places, businesses, and establishments regardless of a person’s vaccination status.
We encourage restaurants, bars, and hotels to monitor their specific location and act accordingly. You can check the level of community spread for your county. If your area has high or substantial COVID transmission and there is not a mask mandate in place, you may wish to strongly recommend or require guests and staff to wear a face covering when not eating or drinking. Be aware of any new or updated local ordinance or mask mandates that may come from local officials.
ABC Commission has confirmed that the Temporary Extension of Premises policy remains in effect until further notice. Businesses requesting to temporarily extend their licensed premises should consult with their local law enforcement and/or ALE District to seek approval/permission to use the area.