San Mateo County will advance to the yellow tier — the least restrictive in the state’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy system, meaning COVID-19 risk is “minimal” — starting on Wednesday, May 12. That means bars that do not serve food can reopen indoors with a maximum capacity of 25 percent or 100 people, whichever is fewer, among other eased restrictions.
In addition, County Health Officer Dr. Scott Morrow has aligned the County’s rules with the state’s in not requiring fully vaccinated people to wear face coverings outdoors except when attending crowded outdoor events, such as live performances, parades and sporting events. Those who are unvaccinated must continue to wear masks outdoors any time physical distancing cannot be maintained.
“In indoor settings outside of one’s home, including public transportation, face coverings continue to be required regardless of vaccination status, with certain exceptions,” according to the County.
San Mateo County hasn’t been in the yellow tier since the state unveiled its color-coded Blueprint for a Safer Economy. Gov. Newsom says the entire state may fully reopen on June 15.
The adjusted COVID-19 case rate in the County has fallen to 1.8, and test positivity rate is 0.6 percent, according to the County. The health equity quartile positivity rate is 1.3.
Below is a guide showing what is allowed in the yellow tier.
