News

San Francisco and Bay Area extend Stay Home order through end of May

Extension designed to maintain progress on slowing the spread of the coronavirus. Updated health order will loosen restrictions on some lower-risk activities.
April 29, 2020

Read this content in Español or 中文.

The San Francisco Department of Public Health, in coordination with other Bay Area health departments, is extending its Stay Home order through the end of May in order to maintain progress on slowing the spread of the coronavirus. In recognition of the gains made to date, the new orders will allow some lower-risk outdoor activities and jobs to resume May 4, provided that specific public health requirements are followed.

Effective dates

This order takes effect at 11:59 p.m. on May 3, 2020. It will remain in effect until 11:59 p.m. on May 31, 2020 unless the Health Officer determines changes are warranted.

Why the Stay Home order is being extended

According to health experts, our collective actions have had a positive impact. Hospitalizations for COVID-19 infected patients in San Francisco have been stable for several weeks. 

However, the vast majority of the population remains susceptible to infection, and there is not yet an effective treatment or cure for the disease. 

San Francisco is working on building up its testing, case finding, case investigation and contact tracing capacity, as well as taking other steps to contain the virus.

While that happens, it is imperative that the City extend the duration of its Stay Home order.  At the same time, we can ease restrictions on some activities with a lower risk of spreading the virus.

Rules that will be eased May 4

Under the extended Stay Home order, all construction will be allowed to resume as long as specific safety measures are in place.

Certain businesses that operate primarily outdoors, such as plant nurseries, artist booths, and car washes may reopen.

Employees of a business allowed to operate under the order can also access childcare programs that are allowed to operate.

Some outdoor recreational facilities, like skate parks, can reopen.

All residential and commercial moves will be allowed.

Progress indicators to inform COVID-19 strategy

Public health officials will track these indicators to assess our progress in ensuring we have the strategies and infrastructure in place to contain and treat COVID-19.

  • If the total number of cases in the community is flat or decreasing
  • If the number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 is flat or decreasing
  • If there is sufficient hospital capacity to meet the needs of our residents
  • If there are sufficient COVID-19 viral detection tests being conducted each day
  • If there is sufficient case investigation, contact tracing, and isolation/quarantine capacity
  • If we have at least a 30-day supply of personal protective equipment (PPE) available for all healthcare providers

See a detailed explanation of the indicators.

For more information

Read the Mayor’s official press release

Read details about the Stay Home extension

Read the official order

Order of The Health Officer No. C19-07c (English)