Columbia, Boone County health order adds new restrictions to restaurants and bars

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

An updated health order for Columbia and Boone County requires customers at restaurants and bars to remain seated unless going to the bathroom.

The Columbia/Boone County Department of Public Health and Human Services on Thursday announced the extension of the current COVID-19 health order but with a few modifications. Those changes include the new rules for restaurant and bar patrons.

The health order said groups at restaurants and bars are now limited to 10 people and customers who are wanting to have large events must submit plans 30 days in advance.

The co-owner of Sycamore Restaurant, Sanford Speake, said his staff and customers have already been following these restrictions because of their own comfort level.

"Our customers have already been following those guidelines, there is virtually no socializing between tables," he said. "We haven't had any large parties, and we haven't had any requests for large parties so that hasn't been an issue."

A news release Thursday from the health department stated the new restrictions are because of an increase in the county's active cases.

The health department's assistant director, Scott Clardy, said in an email the order does not apply to any facilities owned or operated by the University of Missouri.

For high school sporting events the order will limit events to 50 players and 100 spectators, Clardy said. If schools or events want to increase the number of guests they will need to submit an operational plan.

The modified health order states if an event is clearly attempting to not comply with the order, the operational plan will be rejected.

In Columbia, the health department is requiring masks be worn when people cannot social distance 6 feet apart. This works alongside the Columbia mask ordinance, but mask use is not required in other areas of Boone County.

Check back for more on the updated health order or watch ABC 17 News at 5 and 6.