More Breweries, Wineries and Distilleries Can Reopen Outdoors

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced this week that breweries, wineries and distilleries that do not serve meals may now reopen outdoors in the purple and red tiers of the state’s reopening framework. Safety precautions to reduce potential spread of COVID-19 include ensuring patrons make reservations and observe a 90-minute time limit.

Riverside County is currently in the purple tier, however, is on track to enter the red tier as early as next week. Bars that do not serve meals remain closed until Riverside County enters the orange tier of the state’s reopening framework.

“We welcome these loosening restrictions on our businesses and urge everyone to practice the necessary safety precautions,” said Board Chair Karen Spiegel, Second District Supervisor. “We’re getting closer to the red tier when even more businesses can reopen or increase operations. We can safely do so when we’re wearing masks, avoiding gatherings and practicing good hygiene.”

All residents are encouraged to take a PCR swab test to contain the disease. Anyone, with or without symptoms or health insurance, can take a free PCR swab test. Increasing the county’s tests also helps advance into future reopening tiers, paving the way for more businesses to reopen. Visit GetTested.ruhealth.org  to make an appointment. Other testing options can be found online at: https://covid19.ca.gov/get-tested/.

For more information on the guidance for wineries, breweries and distilleries, visit https://covid19.ca.gov/industry-guidance/ and scroll down to the guidance for Restaurants, wineries and bars. For more information on business resources, visit https://rivcobcs.org/.