Governor Carney Announces Additional COVID-19 Restrictions

Gatherings capped at 10 people; restaurant dining indoors limited to 30 percent of fire capacity.  (Click here to go to State Website)

WILMINGTON, Del. — Governor John Carney on Tuesday announced additional restrictions statewide to slow community spread of COVID-19 as Delaware and the country experience a surge of cases, hospitalizations and deaths heading into the winter months. The restrictions will be formally issued in a revision to the Governor’s omnibus emergency order later this week.

Governor Carney’s order will include the following restrictions, which take effect at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, November 23:

• Indoor gatherings in homes must be capped at no more than 10 people.
• Indoor gatherings outside of homes must be limited to 30 percent of the venue’s stated fire capacity, up to a cap of 50 people. This includes all events, such as weddings, funerals, services in houses of worship, performances, political gatherings, and events in public spaces including fire halls.
• Outdoor public gatherings are limited to 50 people. Up to 250 may be allowed with a plan approved by the Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH).
• Restaurants must operate at no more than 30 percent of fire capacity indoors, with allowances for additional outdoor seating.
• Governor Carney’s order will also prohibit Delaware youth sports organizations, teams and venues from hosting or participating in tournaments with out-of-state teams, effective at 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 1. The order includes a provision prohibiting Delaware teams from traveling across states lines for tournaments.

• “These are difficult decisions, but we face a difficult and challenging winter,” said Governor Carney. “COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are rising in Delaware and across the country. Nearly 250,000 Americans, including 736 Delawareans, have already lost their lives to this virus. Our focus must be on protecting lives.”

  “We will also continue to support the Delaware families and small businesses who have been hardest hit by this crisis,” said Governor Carney. “Let’s all do our part to slow the spread of COVID-19. Wear a mask. Celebrate the holidays with immediate family only. Stay vigilant.”