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As we receive questions, we'll be adding to this FAQ. The City is also maintaining an FAQ file on the Minneapolis Coronavirus page that may have additional questions and answers.

Hand-washing Stations and Bathroom Access

Hand-washing stations are not required, as long as your guests will have access to an indoor bathroom. Guests are required to wear a mask while inside to use the facilities. You are encouraged to have hands-free door operation on the bathroom door, or to place a garbage can near the door so that customers may use a paper towel as a barrier between their hand and the door handle.

When do my customers need to have a mask on?

Anytime (other than once eating and drinking) that a customer can't maintain 6 Ft between other people they are expected to have a mask on. If they need to enter the building to get to your outdoor seating, order take-out, use the restroom, or any other reason, they will also need to have a mask on.

Do my employees need to have masks on?

Your front of house staff that are interacting with customers need to have a mask on. Back of house staff must wear masks if they are unable to maintain 6 Ft of distance between each other. All are encouraged to wear masks whether these conditions apply or not.

What kind of covering can I use over my outdoor space?

Table umbrellas and canopies up to 400 Sq Ft are allowed. As soon as 3 or more sides are added to a canopy or tent, it is considered an indoor space and is not allowed. If you want to use a canopy larger than 400 Sq Ft, you may but will need to apply for a permit and there may be a small fee. From training, SWBA is under the impression that it is ok to use multiple canopies that are under the 400 Sq Ft dimensions without additional permitting, but will be happy to verify if this is a concern for you.

Can my guests come inside if bad weather hits?

Current ruling from the city on this (5/27/20) is that customers from outdoor seating may come inside the building should inclement weather hit. There is a requirement that they will put on their masks, and be able to maintain the 6 Ft social distancing that current guidelines require.

Can my takeout customers sit down outside?

Outdoor seating procedures and requirements do apply, with the exception of the reservation requirement. City staff have indicated that as long as a customer asks at the counter and staff are able to verify that distancing and cleaning procedures are being followed that takeout customers may wait in outdoor seating.