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Tuesday, March 19, 2024
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Preventative Measures That Self Storage Operators Must Follow

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UPDATED: November 11, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. (ET)

 

Preventative Measures That Self Storage Operators Must Follow

 

As the country begins to reopen, you have likely seen that state and local governments have imposed restrictions on business operations, such as requiring face coverings and limiting the number of patrons at the site, in an effort to combat the further spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). Below is a list of most of the Executive Orders from Governors, as well as some local directives, that have been issued as of November 11, 2020. You can search for other COVID-19 related legislation in the states, counties, and cities where you operate by clicking here

Alabama:

  • Alabama extended its Safer at Home order until December 11, 2020. 
  • Governor extended the state of emergency. 
  • Governor extended the state of emergency until November 8, 2020. 
  • On July 15, Governor issued an order, requiring citizens to wear masks. Each person shall wear a mask or other facial covering that covers his or her nostrils and mouth at all times when within six feet of a person from another household in any of the following places: an indoor space open to the general public, a vehicle operated by a transportation service, or an outdoor public space where ten or more people are gathered.
  • Protections for employees. All employers must take reasonable steps, where practicable as work duties permit, to protect their employees by encouraging use of masks and facial coverings;  maintaining six feet of separation between employees; regularly disinfecting frequently used items and surfaces; encouraging handwashing; preventing employees who are sick from coming into contact with other persons; facilitating remote working arrangements; and g. minimizing employee travel. In addition to complying with the requirements of this paragraph, employers are strongly encouraged to read and implement the Alabama Department of Public Health’s “Guidelines for Safeguarding All Businesses,” available at https://alabamapublichealth.gov/covid19/assets/covsah-businesses.pdf.
  • Governor extended the safer at home order, which remains operative until July 31. 
  • Governor amended the safer at home order, which remains operative until July 3. Effective May 11, 2020, and unless otherwise permitted or required by this order, all employers shall take reasonable steps, where practicable as work duties permit, to protect their employees by: maintaining six feet of separation between employees; regularly disinfecting frequently used items and surfaces; c. encouraging handwashing; preventing employees who are sick from coming into contact with other persons; facilitating remote working arrangements; and minimizing employee travel. In addition to complying with the requirements of this paragraph, employers are strongly encouraged to read and implement the Alabama Department of Public Health’s “Guidelines for Safeguarding All Businesses,” available at https://alabamapublichealth.gov/covid19/assets/covsah-businesses.pdf. The operator of any business, government office, or other establishment open to the public shall take reasonable steps, where practicable, to protect their customers, constituents, or other guests by: maintaining six feet of separation between such persons (except for those persons who share the same household); and regularly disinfecting frequently used items and surfaces.  
  • On May 8, Governor issued an amended safer at home order. It permits self storage to remain open but imposed additional obligations, including effective May 11, 2020, and unless otherwise permitted or required by this order, all employers shall take reasonable steps, where practicable as work duties permit, to protect their employees by maintaining six feet of separation between employees; regularly disinfecting frequently used items and surfaces; encouraging handwashing; preventing employees who are sick from coming into contact with other persons; facilitating remote working arrangements; and minimizing employee travel. The operator of any business or other establishment open to the public shall take reasonable steps, where practicable, to protect their customers, constituents, or other guests by maintaining six feet of separation between such persons (except for those persons who share the same household); and regularly disinfecting frequently used items and surfaces.
  • On May 8, Governor extended the state of emergency until at least July 8.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

 

Alaska:

  • On May 22, Governor announced Phase Three of Reopen Alaska Plan Responsibility. The order permits all businesses to open to 100 percent capacity.  
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

 

Arizona:

 

  • On June 29, Governor issued an order, requiring certain businesses to close. Self storage may remain open, but the order also states that organized public events of more than 50 people are prohibited unless the city, town or county in unincorporated areas has approved the event, and only if adequate safety precautions are implemented, including physical distancing measures
  • On May 12, Governor issued an order, that institutes a “Stay Healthy, Return Smarter, Return Stronger” policy that promotes physical distancing and allows business to gradually and safely reopen.  Any business that physically operates in the state and serves the public must develop and establish policies that are based on guidance from the CDC, OSHA, and ADHS, including promoting hygiene, intensifying cleaning and disinfecting practices, monitoring for sickness, ensuring physical distancing, providing necessary protective equipment, allowing for and encouraging teleworking where feasible, providing plans where possible, to return to work in phased, and limiting the congregation of groups of no more than 10 persons when feasible.
  • The state of emergency remains in effect indefinitely
  • On April 29, Governor issued an order, instructing residents to stay at home except for limited permissible reasons, including traveling to and working at certain businesses. The order does not impact self storage and operators in the state may remain open.
  • On April 7, Governor imposed a mandatory self-quarantine for those arriving in Arizona from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut (and any other places further identified by the Arizona Department of Public Health) for 14 days, exempting from that requirement in Section 2 those arriving to Arizona for essential infrastructure operations.
  • Check back here for additional updates.

 

Arkansas:

  • Governor extended the state of emergency until December 13, 2020. 
  • Governor extended the state of emergency until October 14, 2020. 
  • On July 20, Governor mandated that every person in the state wear a face covering in all indoor environments where they are exposed to non-household members and distancing of six feet or more is not possible. 
  • Governor extended the state of emergency until August 18. 
  • On June 2, Governor extended the state of emergency for 30 days. 
  • Governor issued an order, implementing certain social distancing requirements for businesses. Self storage operators may remain open but must implement the following: Limit the number of people who can enter into the facility at any one time to ensure that people in the facility can easily maintain a minimum six-foot distance from one another; If lines form at a facility (inside or outside), facilities shall mark off six-foot increments at a minimum, establishing where individuals should stand to maintain adequate social distancing; Provide hand sanitizer, soap and water, or effective disinfectant at or near the entrance of the facility and in other appropriate areas for use by the public and employees, and in locations where there is high-frequency employee interaction with members of the public; Retail businesses shall provide contactless payment systems or provide for disinfecting all payment portals, pens, and styluses after each use; Regularly disinfect any high-touch surfaces; Post a sign at the entrance of the facility informing all employees, customers, and congregants that they should: avoid entering the facility if they have a cough or fever; maintain a minimum six-foot distance from one another; sneeze and cough into one's elbow; not shake hands or engage in any unnecessary physical contact.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

 

California:

  • California released its Employer Playbook that provides guidance for employers to help them plan and prepare for reopening their business and to support a safe, clean environment for workers and customers. The guidance and links in each section are provided to give employers the tools they need to open safely and mitigate risks associated with COVID-19. The guidance is not intended to revoke or repeal any worker rights, either statutory, regulatory or collectively bargained, and is not exhaustive, as it does not include county health orders, nor is it a substitute for any existing safety and health-related regulatory requirements such as those of Cal/OSHA. Stay current on changes to public health guidance and state/local orders, as the COVID-19 situation continues. Cal/OSHA has also published interim safety and health guidance, Cal/OSHA General Guidelines on Protecting Workers. CDC has additional information on their guidance for employers.
  • California has commenced its phased reopening plan. Currently the state is in early Stage 2, where retail (curbside and delivery only), related logistics and manufacturing, office workplaces, limited personal services, outdoor museums, child care, and essential businesses can open with modifications. The state is issuing guidance to help these workplaces reopen safely. Before reopening, all facilities must: perform a detailed risk assessment and implement a site-specific protection plan; train employees on how to limit the spread of COVID-19, including how to screen themselves for symptoms and stay home if they have them; implement individual control measures and screenings; implement disinfecting protocols; implement physical distancing guidelines. Self storage is permitted to remain open as the state “reopens” subject to the preventative measures being implemented as outlined above.
  • State issued guidance that that requires usage of a mask when engaged in work, whether at the workplace or performing work off-site, when interacting in-person with any member of the public; working in any space visited by members of the public, regardless of whether anyone from the public is present at the time. Also, n any room or enclosed area where other people (except for members of the person’s own household or residence) are present when unable to physically distance.
  • Governor issued a statewide order, directing all residents to stay at home except as needed to maintain critical infrastructure sectors. The list is here.  Currently, self storage is considered critical. It appears that the state order supersedes any more restrictive orders, which are discussed below, but we have heard of police enforcing local orders.
  • California joined the Regional State Partnership: Western States Pact - a working group of Western state governors with a shared vision for modifying stay at home orders and fighting COVID-19.
  • The state of emergency remains in effect until at least September 4, 2020 at the state level. The following counties have price gouging restrictions in effect until December 31, 2020: Mendocino, Napa, Santa Barbara, Sonoma, ​Butte, Los Angeles, Ventura.          
  • Check back here for additional updates. 
  • Alameda County issued an order, requiring residents to wear face coverings.  Essential businesses must require their employees, contractors, owners, and volunteers to wear a Face Covering at the workplace and when performing work off-site any time the employee, contractor, owner, or volunteer is interacting in person with any member of the public; working in any space visited by members of the public, such as by way of example and without limitation, reception areas, grocery store or pharmacy aisles, service counters, public restrooms, cashier and checkout areas, waiting rooms, service areas, and other spaces used to interact with the public, regardless of whether anyone from the public is present at the time; working in any space where food is prepared or packaged for sale or distribution to others; working in or walking through common areas such as hallways, stairways, elevators, and parking facilities; or in any room or enclosed area when other people (except for members of the person’s own household or residence) are present.
  • Contra County issued an order, requiring residents to wear face coverings. Essential businesses must require their employees, contractors, owners, and volunteers to wear a Face Covering at the workplace and when performing work off-site any time the employee, contractor, owner, or volunteer is interacting in person with any member of the public; working in any space visited by members of the public, such as by way of example and without limitation, reception areas, grocery store or pharmacy aisles, service counters, public restrooms, cashier and checkout areas, waiting rooms, service areas, and other spaces used to interact with the public, regardless of whether anyone from the public is present at the time; working in any space where food is prepared or packaged for sale or distribution to others; working in or walking through common areas such as hallways, stairways, elevators, and parking facilities; or in any room or enclosed area when other people (except for members of the person’s own household or residence) are present.
  • Marin County issued an order, requiring residents to wear face coverings. Essential businesses must require their employees, contractors, owners, and volunteers to wear a Face Covering at the workplace and when performing work off-site any time the employee, contractor, owner, or volunteer is interacting in person with any member of the public; working in any space visited by members of the public, such as by way of example and without limitation, reception areas, grocery store or pharmacy aisles, service counters, public restrooms, cashier and checkout areas, waiting rooms, service areas, and other spaces used to interact with the public, regardless of whether anyone from the public is present at the time; working in any space where food is prepared or packaged for sale or distribution to others; working in or walking through common areas such as hallways, stairways, elevators, and parking facilities; or in any room or enclosed area when other people (except for members of the person’s own household or residence) are present.
  • San Francisco County & City issued an order, requiring all residents to wear face coverings.  This Order also requires employees, contractors, owners, and volunteers of all Essential Businesses or those operating public transportation and other types of shared transportation to wear a face covering when at work. As used in this Order, a “Face Covering” means a covering made of cloth, fabric, or other soft or permeable material, without holes, that covers only the nose and mouth and surrounding areas of the lower face.
  • San Mateo County issued an order, requiring residents to wear face coverings. Essential businesses must require their employees, contractors, owners, and volunteers to wear a Face Covering at the workplace and when performing work off-site any time the employee, contractor, owner, or volunteer is interacting in person with any member of the public; working in any space visited by members of the public, such as by way of example and without limitation, reception areas, grocery store or pharmacy aisles, service counters, public restrooms, cashier and checkout areas, waiting rooms, service areas, and other spaces used to interact with the public, regardless of whether anyone from the public is present at the time; working in any space where food is prepared or packaged for sale or distribution to others; working in or walking through common areas such as hallways, stairways, elevators, and parking facilities; or in any room or enclosed area when other people (except for members of the person’s own household or residence) are present.
  • Sonoma County issued an order, requiring residents to wear masks.  Employers who require their employees to leave their residence to work or provide a service must make sure that their employees comply with this Order while on duty by either:  supplying employees with facial coverings, or making sure that employees have access to facial coverings, or that their employees are using their own facial coverings. Employers may to the extent already authorized by law refuse admission or service to any customer or visitor who refuses to comply with this Order.
  • Several cities and counties in California, including, but not limited to, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Santa Clara, San Mateo, Marin, Contra Costa, Sonoma, Monterey, Santa Cruz, Yolo, and Alameda counties have also issued stay at home mandates.
  • Operators must review those orders in the context of whether storage operations in those jurisdictions must cease and should consult their local government’s website. There may be a reasonable argument that those storage businesses may remain open. The order from San Manteo for example states “All businesses except Essential Businesses are required to cease all activities at facilities located within the County except Minimum Basic Operations. It does define essential businesses further and the following could potentially be used to make an argument to be considered an essential business: First, Businesses that supply products needed for people to work from home or Second, Businesses that supply other essential businesses with the support or supplies necessary to operate. Even if an operator believes they are not “essential,” there is another carve out for “minimum basic operations.” The San Mateo order states, “Minimum Basic Operations” include the following: The minimum necessary activities to maintain the value of the business’s inventory, ensure security, process payroll and employee benefits, or for related functions.” As such, an operator could take the position that having one or two employees onsite is necessary to maintain minimum basic operations at the facility.
  • However, this language is specific to the San Mateo shelter in place order. All operators in California must carefully review the shelter in place directives and make an independent judgement as to its application to their business.
  • See more information in the FAQs here.

Colorado:

  • Governor extended mask mandate.
  • On June 30, governor issued an order, requiring bars to close again until July 30. Self storage is not impacted.
  • On June 1, Governor issued an order, Safer at Home and In the Vast, Great Outdoors, that  strongly encourages citizens to stay home as much as possible. It also urges all businesses and governmental entities to allow workers to telecommute whenever possible. Self storage may continue to operator under the order.
  • On May 25, Governor extended the safer at home order until June 1. 
  • On April 27, Governor issued the safer at home order that remains effective until May 27, permitting beginning on May 4, 2020, Non-Critical Commercial Businesses to allow up to fifty percent (50%) of their employees to conduct in-person work in accordance with mandatory social distancing requirements and protocols. The order advises Coloradans to wear non-medical cloth face coverings that cover the nose and mouth whenever in public and orders Coloradans to limit social interactions to the greatest extent possible except as required to conduct necessary activities. Also, citizens are instructed to limit essential travel to within their county of residence or employment as much as possible and recreational travel to no further than ten (10) miles from their residence. The order prohibits public gatherings of ten (10) persons or more in both public spaces and private commercial venues. It also strongly encourage all critical businesses, critical government functions, non-critical retail, and non-critical commercial businesses to allow workers to telecommute whenever possible. Self storage is permitted to remain open subject to the terms outlined above.
  • On April 27, Colorado Governor Jared Polis announced Colorado is joining Washington, Oregon, Nevada, and California in the Western States Pact -- a working group of Western state governors with a shared vision for modifying stay at home orders and fighting COVID-19.
  • On April 17, Governor issued an order, requiring owners and employees of essential businesses to wear face coverings and gloves. 
  • Governor issued an order, directing all residents to stay at home except for limited activities such as traveling to and working at critical businesses. Among other businesses, critical businesses include companies that provide storage for Critical Businesses – this includes self storage. A full list of essential critical businesses can be viewed here
  • The order imposes the following social distancing requirements: To reduce the risk of disease transmission, individuals shall maintain at least a six-foot distance from other individuals, wash hands with soap and water for at least twenty seconds as frequently as possible or using hand sanitizer, cover coughs or sneezes (into the sleeve or elbow, not hands), regularly clean high-touch surfaces, and not shake hands.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

Connecticut:

  • State of Emergency extended until February 9, 2021.
  • On August 14, Governor amended the mask mandate. Any person in a public place in Connecticut, whether indoors or outdoors, who does not maintain a safe social distance of approximately six feet from every other person shall cover their mouth and nose with a mask or cloth face-covering.
  • On May 18, Governor issued an order, permitting certain businesses to commence a phased-in reopening. Self storage may continue to operate subject to the workplace rules and restrictions outlined below.
  • On April 17, Governor issued an order, requiring any person in a public place, including essential businesses, in Connecticut who is unable to or does not maintain a safe social distance of approximately six feet from every other person must cover their mouth and nose with a mask or cloth face-covering. Employers must issue face coverings to employees, provide them with materials and a CDC tutorial on how to make their own mask, or “compensate employees for the reasonable and necessary costs employees expend on such materials to make their own masks or cloth face covering.”
  • The state of emergency is in effect until at least September 9, 2020.
  • Essential businesses must also implement several workplace rules that can be viewed here.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

Delaware:

  • Governor extended the state of emergency. 
  • On July 6, Governor extended the state of emergency. 
  • On June 15, the state moved to Phase 2  of its reopening plan. 
  • On June 6, Governor extended the state of emergency indefinitely. 
  • On May 22, Governor issued an order, extending the state of emergency and permitting certain businesses to reopen that were previously required to close. Self storage may remain open subject to the requirements outlined below.
  • Governor issued an issued an order, requiring all non-essential businesses to close all physical locations within the State of Delaware. Another order was issued, mandating all residents to shelter in place.
  • The list of essential and nonessential businesses can be found here. Self storage is considered essential and may remain open. A FAQ was also made available. 
  • Businesses are also required to provide employees with a face covering to wear while working in areas open to the general  public and areas in which coming within 6 feet of other staff are likely. Businesses must provide, at their expense, such face coverings as well as hand sanitizer for their employees. Businesses shall take steps to remind customers to wear face coverings by (a) posting the requirement at the entrance of the business, and (b) posting clearly visible signs inside the store to remind customers of the requirement to wear the face covering at all times when in the business.
  • In addition, essential businesses were directed to implement flexible and non-punitive sick-leave policies to facilitate compliance with this Order, such policies should follow any guidance from the U.S. CDC and DPH regarding COVID-19. Exclude employees who (a) have been diagnosed with COVID-19, (b) are reasonably suspected to have COVID-19, or (c) have symptoms of acute respiratory illness, such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath, shall stay home and not come to work until they are until they are free of fever (100.4 °F [38.0 °C] or greater using an oral thermometer), signs of a fever, and any other symptoms of acute respiratory illness for at least 24 hours, without the use of fever-reducing or other symptom-altering medicines (e.g. cough suppressants), these employees should notify their supervisor and stay home if they are sick; Exclude employees who reside or intimately interact with persons who (a) have been diagnosed with COVID-19, (b) are reasonably suspected to have COVID-19, or (c) have symptoms of acute respiratory illness, such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath, should stay at home and notify their supervisor of their situation; Exclude individuals at highest risk of poor outcomes such as those over age 60 and those with chronic underlying conditions from on-premises work (with the exception of healthcare workers); Separate sick employees from other individuals immediately; Prohibit employees who have been told they must be isolated or quarantined from on-premises work until cleared by DPH or a medical professional; Hand wash with warm water and soap when entering and leaving worksite; Have hand sanitizer or handwashing stations readily available for all employees throughout the day; Enforce cough and sneeze hygiene; Follow all State and CDC guidelines and recommendations for social distancing, especially that there must be 6 feet of space between employees at all times (the exception being healthcare workers using appropriate PPE); Follow all State and CDC guidelines and recommendations for environmental cleaning; Teleworking must be maximized; Visitors are not allowed inside worksites unless they are providing essential services.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

District of Columbia:

  • On August 13, DC City Council passed a new law. During the public health emergency, employers in the District must adopt and implement social distancing and worker protection policies to prevent transmission of COVID-19 in the workplace that adheres to the requirements of Mayor's Order 2020-080, or subsequent Mayor's Order. An employer may establish a workplace policy to require an employee to report to the employer a positive test for an active COVID-19 infection. An employer may not disclose the identity of an employee who tests positive except to the Department of Health or another District or federal agency responsible for and engaged in contact tracing and the containment of community spread of COVID-19. No employer or agent thereof may take an adverse employment action against an employee for the employee’s refusal to serve a customer or client, or to work within 6 feet of an individual, who is not complying with the workplace protections.
  • On July 22, Mayor issued an order, requiring citizens to wear masks. Businesses, office buildings, and other establishments open to members of the public must post signage on their exterior doors stating that a person may not enter unless the person is wearing a mask. In addition, the business, office building, or other establishment shall exclude or attempt to eject persons who are not wearing masks or who remove their required masks. Employers shall provide masks to their employees.
  • DC entered Phase I on its reopening plan and extended the state of emergency until July 24. 

Florida:

  • Governor extended the state of emergency until January 3, 2021. 
  • Several cities and counties in Florida have implemented mask requirements. Most of those new orders may be viewed here
  • On June 3, Governor issued an order, moving the state into Phase 2 of the its reopening plan. 
  • Effective May 4, Governor issued an order, instructing residents to limit social interactions outside of their home. The order permits certain businesses that were previously required to close to reopen slowly and others, such as gyms, to remain closed. Self storage may remain open. If necessary, employee screening or use of personal protective equipment should continue.
  • On April 1, Governor issued a Safer at Home order, instructing citizens to remain home except for limited permissible activities, including traveling to and working at an essential business.  The order includes as essential workers and businesses in the following categories, all of which describe self storage: (1) service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation or residences, businesses and buildings; (2) commercial real estate services; (3) last-mile delivery; (4) workers who support the supply chain of building materials; (5) employees who provide services that enable repair materials and equipment for essential functions; and (6) employees of firms providing services that enable operations, including storing products for whole or retail sale or use. The order allows self storage facilities to remain open.
  • The Governor issued a subsequent order superseding any local orders.
  • Check back here for additional updates.
  • Miami-Dade county issued an order, closing all nonessential businesses. Storage is considered essential.
  • Alachua County, Florida issued an order closing nonessential businesses. Essential businesses include logistics providers, including warehouses, trucking, consolidators, fumigators, and handlers. Further, factories, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, bottling plants, or other industrial distribution and supply chain facilities used for essential products and industries for the U.S. domestic market. Finally, businesses that primarily supply office products needed for people to operate open businesses or work from home are deemed essential. Self storage fits into those designations.
  • Charlotte County, Florida issued a directive, urging residents to stay at home. 
  • Hillsborough County, Florida issued an order, directing all citizens to stay at home except for limited purposes such as traveling to and working at an essential business.  Moving, storage, and relocation services are deemed essential businesses, which covers the self storage industry.
  • Leon County, Florida issued an order, limiting gatherings to 10 or fewer and instructing citizens to stay at home except to travel to and work at their job.
  • Osceola County, Florida issued an order, requiring residents not to leave the premises of their primary residence except to conduct certain necessary activities, including traveling to and working to maintain continuity of operations of the federal critical infrastructure sectors as more particularly described here. This list CISA critical industries. That particular version references commercial facilities and self storage is listed in that section. As a result, self storage is deemed essential.
  • Orange County, Florida issued an order, wherein individuals are required not to leave the premises of their primary residence except to conduct certain necessary activities, including obtaining food and traveling to work at an essential business. Essential businesses also include those employed in or working to maintain continuity of operations of the federal critical infrastructure sectors, which includes self storage in the commercial facilities sector.  Also, logistics providers, including warehouses, trucking, consolidators, fumigators, and handlers are essential. Further, businesses that supply office products needed for people to work from home are essential.
  • Employers and employees of such essential businesses are urged to practice social distancing, such as keeping at least six (6) feet apart and limiting group size to less than ten (10) people.
  • Previously, Orange County imposed curfew hours during which movement is prohibited each day from 11:00 P.M. until 5:00 A.M., commencing on Friday, March 20, 2020 until terminated by executive order.
  • Pinellas County, Florida issued an order, requiring residents to stay at home except for limited permissible activities such as traveling to and working at an essential business and performing tasks at that business that cannot be done at home. Essential businesses include logistics providers, including warehouses, trucking, consolidators, fumigators, and handlers. Further, factories, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, bottling plants, or other industrial distribution and supply chain facilities used for essential products and industries for the U.S. domestic market. Finally, businesses that primarily supply office products needed for people to operate open businesses or work from home are deemed essential. Self storage fits into those designations.

Georgia:

 

  • State of emergency in effect until December 9, 2020 (likely to be extended beyond that date). 
  • On July 15, Governor issued an order that mandates that certain businesses implement new, additional preventative measures. It encourages, but does not require, citizens to use a face covering when outside of their home.
  • Critical Infrastructure that continue in-person operation during the effective dates of this Order shall implement measures which mitigate the exposure and spread of COVID-19. Such measures may include, but shall not be limited to the following, which shall be implemented to the maximum extent practicable: screening and evaluating workers who exhibit Symptoms of COVID-19; requiring workers who exhibit symptoms of COVID-19 to not report to work or to seek medical attention; enhancing sanitation of the workplace as appropriate; disinfecting common surfaces regularly; requiring handwashing or sanitation by Workers at appropriate places within the business location; prohibiting Gatherings of Workers during working hours; permitting Workers to take breaks and lunch outside, in their office or personal workspace, or in such other areas where proper Social Distancing is attainable; implementing teleworking for all possible Workers; implementing staggered shifts for all possible Workers; holding all meetings and conferences virtually, whenever possible; delivering intangible services remotely, whenever possible; discouraging Workers from using other Workers' phones, desks, offices, or other work tools and equipment; prohibiting handshaking and other unnecessary person-to-person contact in the workplace.
  • Critical Infrastructure and all other businesses, establishments, corporations, non-profit corporations, or organizations that continue in-person operation during the effective dates of this Order should implement the following measures if practicable: providing Personal Protective Equipment as available and appropriate to the function and location of the Worker within the business location; providing disinfectant and sanitation products for Workers to clean their workspace, equipment, and tools; and increasing physical space between Workers' worksites to at least six (6) feet.
  • Governor extended the state of emergency until September 10, 2020.
  • On April 20, Governor issued an order, “reopening” on a limited basis certain businesses such as fitness centers and bowling alleys that were required to close under prior orders. Those entities are now allowed minimum basic operations. Self storage may remain open.
  • The order mandates measures to mitigate exposure to the virus and states that the measures may include, but shall not be limited to: (1) screening and evaluating workers who exhibit signs of illness, such as a fever over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, cough, or shortness of breath; (2) requiring workers who exhibit signs of illness not to report to work or seek medical attention; (3) enhancing sanitation of the workplace as appropriate; (4) requiring hand washing or sanitation by workers at appropriate places within the business location; (5) providing person protective requirement as available and appropriate to the function and location of the worker within the business location; (6) prohibiting gatherings of workers during working hours; (7) permitting takes breaks and lunch outside, in their office or personal workspace, or in such other areas where proper social distancing is attainable; (8) implementing teleworking for all possible workers; (9) implementing staggered shifts for all possible workers; (10) holding all meeting and conferences virtually, wherever possible; (11) delivering intangible services remotely wherever possible; (12) discouraging workers from using other workers’ phones, desks, offices, or other work tools and equipment; (13) providing disinfectant and sanitation products for workers to clean their workplace, equipment, and tools; (14) prohibiting handshaking and other unnecessary person-to-person contact in the workplace; (15) placing notices that encourage hand hygiene at the entrance to the workplace and in other workplace areas where they are likely to be seen; and (16) suspending the use of Personal Identification Number (“PIN”) pads, PIN entry devices, electronic signature capture, and any other credit card receipt signature requirements to the extent such suspension is permitted by agreements with credit card companies and credit agencies.
  • Check back here for additional updates.
  • Atlanta, Georgia issued an order, directing citizens to stay at home except for limited purposes such as working at an essential business. Among others, essential businesses include businesses that supply products needed for people to work from home and businesses that supply other essential businesses with the support or supplies necessary to operate. These include self storage.
  • Conyers, Georgia issued an order, requiring residents to shelter in place and closing many nonessential businesses.  Residents are permitted to go to work at essential businesses which include businesses that supply products needed for people to work from home and businesses that supply other essential businesses with the support or supplies necessary to operate. These both cover self storage.
  • Jasper County, Georgia issued a protective order saying no business, establishment, corporation, non-profit corporation or organization shall allow more than 10 people to be gathered at a single location if such gathering requires individuals to stand or be seated within 6 ft of any other person.
  • Macon County, Georgia issued a protective order saying all retail and industrial businesses will remain open as long as employees are 6 ft. apart.
  • Savannah, Georgia issued an order, requiring residents to stay at home except for limited permissible purposes such as going to work at an essential business. Among other businesses, businesses that supply products needed for people to work from home and businesses that supply other essential businesses with the support or supplies necessary to operate are deemed essential and may continue to operate. These include self storage.
  • Further, businesses may also continue operations consisting exclusively for employees or contractors performing activities at their own residences (i.e., working from home). This provision may be useful for managers who live on site.

 

Hawaii:

  • State of emergency in effect until at least November 30, 2020 (likely to be extended beyond that date).
  • Governor issued an order that remains in effect until August 31, which requires certain businesses or operations that may operate during the emergency, including self storage, to operate in accordance with the State Roadmap to Recovery and Resilience, attached to the order.
  • On May 18, Governor extended the stay home order and state of emergency until at least June 30. Self storage may continue to operate subject to the mandates outlined below.
  • On May 18, Governor issued a memo, outlining the steps to reopen the state. Self storage is not impacted. 
  • On May 5, Governor issued an order, requiring all persons within the State of Hawaiʻi to stay at home or in their place of residence except as necessary to maintain continuity of operations of the federal critical infrastructure sectors, which includes self storage.
  • Each essential and designated business facility or operation shall determine the maximum number of customers that may be accommodated while maintaining the specified separation distance and limiting the number of customers in the facility or at the operation to that maximum number at any time. All customers shall wear a face covering as described and recommended by the CDC, while waiting to enter and while at an essential and designated business or operation. All employees of essential and designated businesses or operations who have any contact with customers or goods to be purchased shall wear the cloth face covering recommended by the CDC while at their place of employment. Hand sanitizer and sanitizing products. Essential and designated businesses or operations shall make hand sanitizer and sanitizing products readily available for employees and customers. Employees handling items from customers, such as cash or credit cards, shall frequently utilize hand sanitizers.
  • On April 24, the Governor issued an order, extending the stay at home order until May 31, 2020 and closing certain nonessential businesses, not covered by the federal CISA guidance. Self storage is permitted to remain open if certain preventative and social distancing measures are implemented as outlined below.
  • On April 16, Governor issued an order, implementing new social distancing and other preventative measures that businesses must implement.
  • All customers and employees of essential businesses must fully implement the additional social distancing and protective requirements where possible: Six-foot distances. Personnel shall monitor and enforce the six-foot distancing requirement, whether in outside waiting lines or as customers move about inside a facility. Checkout operations shall be modified, to the extent reasonably feasible, to provide this separation or to provide a transparent shield or barrier between customers and checkout clerks. Limited Customer Occupancy. Each essential business facility or operation shall determine the maximum number of customers that may be accommodated while maintaining the specified separation distance and limiting the number of customers in the facility or at the operation to that maximum number at any time.  Hand sanitizer and sanitizing products. Employees handling items from customers, such as cash or credit cards, shall frequently utilize hand sanitizers. Disinfection. Essential businesses and operations shall regularly disinfect all high-touch surfaces. Face covering. All customers shall wear a face covering or as required by any applicable county order, while waiting to enter and while at an essential business or operation. All employees of essential businesses or operations who have any contact with customers or goods to be purchased shall wear the cloth face covering recommended by the CDC while at their place of employment. High risk populations. Elderly customers, employees and others at high risk for COVID-19, including those who are sick, are urged to stay in their residences to the extent possible, except as necessary to seek medical care. Online and remote access. Essential businesses and operations shall encourage their customers to do their business remotely by phone or online if at all possible.  Signage. Essential businesses and operations shall post a sign at the entrance of the facility informing all employees and customers that they should: avoid entering the business or operation if they have a cough or fever or otherwise do  not feel well; maintain a six-foot distance from one another; sneeze and cough into their elbow; not shake hands or engage in unnecessary physical contact.
  • Governor issued on March 23 an order, directing all residents to stay at home. All persons may leave their home or place of residence only for essential activities or to engage in the essential businesses and operations. Among other industries, essential businesses include professional services, such as real estate services. Also, it includes businesses that sell, manufacture, or supply other essential businesses and operations with the support or materials necessary to operate and businesses that sell, manufacture, or supply products needed for people to work from home. These cover self storage.
  • All essential businesses and operations and persons engaged in permitted activities identified herein, shall exercise the following social distancing requirements to the fullest extent possible:1. Six-foot distances. All persons shall maintain a minimum of six-feet of physical separation from all other persons to the fullest extent possible. Essential businesses and operations shall designate with signage, tape, or by other means six foot spacing for employees and customers in line to maintain appropriate distance. 2. Hand sanitizer and sanitizing products. Essential businesses and operations shall make hand sanitizer and sanitizing products readily available for employees and customers. 3. Separate operating hours for high risk populations. Essential businesses and operations shall implement separate operating hours for elderly and high risk customers. High risk persons, including those who are sick, are urged to stay in their residence to the extent possible except as necessary to seek medical care. 4. Online and remote access. Essential businesses and operations shall post online whether a facility is open and how best to reach the facility and continue services by phone or remotely.
  • Governor issued an order, closing bars, restaurants, and limits gatherings to 10 people or less.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

 

Idaho:

  • On April 23, Governor announced that the stay in place order will expire on April 30. On May 1, a four-stage reopening process will commence. Self storage operations are not affected by this announcement and may remain open.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

 

Illinois:

  • Governor issued an order. It requires all businesses must continue to evaluate which employees are able to work from home, and are encouraged to facilitate remote work from home when possible; ensure that employees practice social distancing and wear face coverings when social distancing is not always possible; ensure that all spaces where employees may gather, including locker rooms and lunchrooms, allow for social distancing; and ensure that all visitors (customers, vendors, etc.) to the workplace can practice social distancing; but if maintaining a six-foot social distance will not be possible at all times, encourage visitors to wear face coverings; and prominently post the guidance from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and Office of the Illinois Attorney General regarding workplace safety during the COVID-19 emergency.
  • The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), in partnership with IDPH, has developed industry-specific guidance and toolkits to help businesses operate safely and responsibly.  These documents are available at: https://dceocovid19resources.com/restore-illinois/restore-illinois-phase-4/.
  • On May 29, Illinois enter Phase 3 of the Governor’s Reopening Plan. Employees of “non-essential” businesses are allowed to return to work with IDPH approved safety guidance depending upon risk level, tele-work strongly encouraged wherever possible; Employers are encouraged to provide accommodations for COVID-19-vulnerable employees. Also, gatherings of 10 people or fewer are allowed with this limit subject to change based on latest data & guidance.
  • On April 30, the Governor issued an order, extending the stay at home order until at least May 30. The order also requires essential businesses to provide face-coverings to all employees who are not able to maintain six-feet of social distancing, as well as follow new requirements that maximize social distancing and prioritize the well-being of employees and customers. This will include occupancy limits for essential businesses. Self storage is permitted to remain open if the preventative measures are implemented.
  • Governor issued on March 20 an order, requiring all residents to stay at home. Individuals are permitted to leave to work at “essential” businesses. Essential businesses include real estate services. Also, businesses that provide supplies to work from home and those businesses that provide supplies for essential businesses and operations.
  • The order also permits nonessential businesses to maintain “minimum basic operations,” which are the minimum necessary activities to maintain the value of the business’s inventory, preserve the condition of the business’s physical plant and equipment, ensure security, process payroll, or for related functions.
  • Businesses that remain open must comply with the Social Distance Requirements in the order. These include designating six-foot spacing for employees and customers in line to maintain appropriate distance; having hand sanitizer and sanitizing products readily available for employees and customers; implementing separate operating hours for elderly and vulnerable customers; and posting online whether a facility is open and how best to reach the facility and continue services by phone or remotely.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 


Indiana:

  • Governor announced that state was in Stage 5. 
  • Governor extended the state of emergency.
  • Stage 4.5 was extended until September 25 along with the mask mandate.
  • Governor issued an order that becomes effective on July 27, 2020, and continues until August 26, 2020, unless rescinded, modified or extended. Every individual within the State of Indiana shall wear a face covering over the nose and mouth when: inside a business, public building, or other indoor place open to the public. This does not extend, however, to private offices, private workspaces or meetings in which six feet of social distancing can be achieved and maintained between people not in the same household; in an outdoor public space wherever it is not feasible to maintain six feet of social distancing from another person not in the same household.
  • On July 1, Governor announced that most of the state had entered Stage 4.5 of reopening. 
  • On June 11, Governor announced that the state had moved to stage 4 of its reopening process. 
  • On May 21, Governor announced that part of the state was entering Stage 3 of the reopening process.  On May 22, 2020, at 12:00 a.m. through June 13, 2020, at 11:59 p.m., all Indiana counties except Cass, Lake & Marion, will be permitted to transition into Stage 3. Cass, Lake & Marion counties will remain in Stage 2 until 12:00 a.m. on Monday, June 1, 2020, when each of these counties will be permitted to advance to Stage 3. Once transitioned into Stage 3, each county must adhere to the directives in this Executive Order through June 13, 2020, at 11:59 p.m.
  • In Stages 2 and 3, all individuals are encouraged to stay at home or their place of residence as much as practicable to mitigate  the spread of COVID-19. Individuals should, to the extent practicable, limit trips out of their home. Trips outside of the home are expected for travel to employment, to purchase necessities of life and to care for a family member, friend, or pet in another household, and to transport family members, friends, or pets. When outside the home, individuals should, as much as reasonably practicable, maintain social distancing of at least six (6) feet from any other person, with the exception of family or household members. Additionally, when outside of homes or residences, individuals are strongly encouraged to wear face coverings.
  • All businesses continuing operations or being allowed to reopen are required to develop a  plan to implement  measures  and  institute  safeguards  to ensure a safe environment for their employees, customers, clients, and members. Plans are required for all open businesses. The plan must be provided  to each employee  or  staff  and posted publicly.  The plan shall address, at a minimum, the following points: Instituting an employee health screening process; ii) Employing enhanced cleaning and disinfecting protocols for the workplace, including regularly cleaning high-touch surfaces; iii) Enhancing the ability of employees, customers and clients to wash hands or take other personal hygiene measures such as use of hand sanitizer; and iv) Complying with social distancing requirements established by the CDC, including maintaining six-foot social distancing for both employees and members of the general public when possible and/or employing other separation measures such as wearing face coverings or using barriers.
  • IOSHA Standards: All employers, whether manufacturers, distributors, professional offices, retailers or others, must comply with safety and health standards established and enforced by IOSHA. Employers are subject to specific standards to prevent the exposure or spread of a disease.Additionally, the General Duty Clause requires employers to provide their employees with a workplace free from recognized hazards likely to cause death or serious physical harm.
  • All businesses and employers are encouraged to adopt and/or take the following actions: Allow as many employees as reasonably practicable to work from home by implementing policies regarding teleworking and video conferencing. Ensure sick leave policies are up to date, flexible, and non-punitive in order to allow sick employees to stay home to care for themselves, children or other family members. Consider encouraging employees to do a self-assessment each day in order to check if they have any COVID-19 type symptoms (fever, cough or shortness of breath). Actively encourage sick employees to stay home until they are free of fever and symptoms for the   requisite   time   periods recommended   by   the   CDC. Suspend any policies and do not require a healthcare provider's note to validate the illness or return to work of employees who are sick with acute respiratory illness. Promptly separate employees who appear to have acute respiratory illness symptoms from other employees and send them home immediately. Restrict their access to the business until they have recovered. Reinforce key messages to all employees regularly (including stay home when sick, use cough and sneeze etiquette, and practice hand hygiene), and place posters in areas where they are most likely to be seen. Provide protection supplies such as soap and water, hand sanitizer, tissues, and no-touch disposal receptacles for use by employees. Frequently  perform enhanced environmental  cleaning  of  commonly  touched  surfaces,  such as workstations, countertops, railings, door handles, and doorknobs. Use the cleaning agents that are usually used in these areas and follow the  directions  on  the label. Provide disposable wipes so commonly used surfaces can be wiped down by employees before each Be prepared to change business practices, if needed, in order to maintain critical operations (e.g., identify alternative suppliers, prioritize customers or temporarily suspend some of your operations).
  • Social Distancing and Other Requirements. The phrase "social distancing" includes maintaining at least six feet of social distancing from other individuals. The phrase "sanitation requirements" or "sanitation measures" includes washing hands with soap and water for at least twenty seconds as frequently as possible or using hand sanitizer, covering coughs or sneezes (into the sleeve or elbow, not hands), regularly cleaning high-touch surfaces, and not shaking hands. All businesses and entities must take proactive measures to ensure compliance with the social distancing and sanitation requirements, including, where possible, the following: Designate Six-Foot Distances: Designating with signage, tape or by other means, six feet of spacing for employees, customers, clients or members to maintain appropriate distance. Hand Sanitizer and Sanitizing Products: Having hand sanitizer, and sanitizing products, readily available for employees and customers. Frequent cleaning and disinfecting of work areas, and even more frequent cleaning of high-touch areas. Separate Operating Hours for Vulnerable Populations: Implementing separate operating hours for the elderly and vulnerable customers.
  • Online and Remote Access: Posting online whether a facility is open and how best to reach the facility and to continue services by phone or remotely.
  • Starting on May 4, the Governor announced that certain businesses that were previously required to close are permitted to slowly reopen. The announcement also requires certain businesses, such as gyms, to remain closed. Self storage may remain open. 
  • All Essential Businesses and Operations shall comply with social distancing requirements established by the CDC, including maintaining six-foot social distancing for both employees and members of the general public at all times and must utilize or employ other CDC recommended sanitation measures such as washing hands with soap and water for at least twenty seconds as frequently as possible or using hand sanitizer) covering coughs or sneezes (into the sleeve or elbow; not hands)) regularly cleaning high-touch surfaces) and not shaking hands.
  • All employers must comply with safety and health standards established and enforced by IOSHA. Employers are subject to specific standards to prevent the exposure or spread of a disease. Additionally, the General Duty Clause requires employers to provide their employees with a workplace free from recognized hazards likely to cause death or serious physical harm.

Iowa:

  • Governor extended the state of emergency until December 10, 2020. 
  • Governor extended the state of emergency until August 23.
  • Governor extended the state of emergency until July 25.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

Kansas:

  • On July 2, Governor issued an order, requiring citizens to wear masks in public. Businesses or organizations in Kansas must require all employees, customers, visitors, members, or members of the public to wear a mask or other face covering when employees are working in any space visited by customers or members of the public, regardless of whether anyone from the public is present at the time; employees are working in any space where food is prepared or packaged for sale or distribution to others; employees are working in or walking through common areas, such as hallways, stairways, elevators, and parking facilities; customers, members, visitors, or members of the public are in a facility managed by the business or organization; or employees are in any room or enclosed area where other people (except for individuals who reside together) are present and are unable to maintain a 6-foot distance except for infrequent or incidental moments of closer proximity.
  • On June 8, Governor announced that the state was moving to Phase 3 of its reopening plan. 
  • On May 19, Governor issued an order that extended the state of emergency indefinitely and also announced that the state was entering Phase 2 of the reopening plan.  Self storage may continue to operate subject to the recommendations outlined below.
  • Guidance for Employers/Businesses: Continue to strongly encourage telework for all employees when possible. Avoid gatherings of employees in groups of more than 15 individuals where 6- foot distances between individuals cannot be maintained except for infrequent or incidental moments of closer proximity. Gradually phase in employees on-site as possible while maintaining 6 feet between employee workstations. Any employees exhibiting symptoms should be required to stay at home and asked to call their health care provider. Minimize or eliminate non-essential travel and adhere to CDC and KDHE guidelines regarding isolation or quarantine following travel to high-risk areas. Essential travel includes travel for urgent family, medical, and business-related needs as determined by the individual or business. Strongly consider special accommodations for personnel who are members of a vulnerable population.
  • On May 14, Governor announced a slowdown of the reopening of the state, requiring certain businesses to remain closed.  Throughout all phases, Kansans should continue to adhere to hygiene and social distancing protocols, including washing hands frequently, while avoiding contact with one’s face; remaining home when sick or running a fever; following isolation and quarantine orders issued by state or local health officers; wearing a cloth face mask when in public; working remotely, if possible. Self storage may remain open subject to the preventive measures outlined in the order.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

Kentucky:

  • On August 6, Governor extended the mask mandate. 
  • Governor issued an order, requiring citizens to a face covering during most occasions where they are outside of their home. 
  • Governor announced the timeline for businesses to reopen that were previously required to close. Self storage is not impacted and may remain open.
  • Governor issued an order to “Remain Healthy at Home.” The order encourages all citizens to stay at home except for certain activities such as to obtain food or work at an essential businesses. Among other businesses, essential businesses include businesses that sell, manufacture, or supply other Life-Sustaining Businesses with the support or materials necessary to operate. Further it includes, real estate services. These cover self storage.
  • Professional services firms, including real estate services, must implement telecommuting and remote work to the fullest extent possible, and should only use in-person interaction to support Minimum Basic Operations or where telecommuting is impossible.
  • All businesses permitted to operate, including Life-Sustaining Businesses and businesses conducting Minimum Basic Operations, must follow, to the fullest extent practicable, social distancing and hygiene guidance from the CDC and the Kentucky Department of Public Health. Failure to do so is a violation of this Order, and could subject said business to closure or additional penalties as authorized by law. Social distancing and hygiene guidance includes: ensuring physical separation of employees and customers by at least six feet when possible; ensuring employees practice appropriate hygiene measures, including regular, thorough handwashing or access to hand sanitizer; regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces; permitting employees to work from home when feasible; and identifying any sick employees and ask theming to leave the premises. Employers are strongly encouraged to offer these employees paid leave.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

Louisiana:

  • State of emergency in effect until December 4, 2020. 
  • On July 11, Governor issued an order, requiring citizens to wear masks, 
  • The statewide mask mandate applies to all 64 parishes in Louisiana. However, parishes with a COVID-19 incidence of fewer than 100 cases per 100,000 people for the most recent two-week period for which data is available could choose to opt out of the mandate. Parish presidents do not have to opt out and may choose to keep a mask mandate in place. Currently, only three parishes in Louisiana do not exceed this standard, which will be updated every other week by the Louisiana Department of Health: Grant, Red River and West Feliciana. The order requires face coverings for everyone ages 8 and older except for the following: Anyone who has a medical condition that prevents the wearing of a face covering. Anyone who is consuming a drink or food. Anyone who is trying to communicate with a person who is hearing impaired. Anyone who is giving a speech for broadcast or to an audience. Anyone temporarily removing his or her face covering for identification purposes Anyone who is a resident of a parish without a high COVID incidence that has opted out of the masking mandate.
  • Governor extended the state of emergency. 
  • On June 1, Governor announced that the state was moving to Stage 2 of the reopening plan on June 5.  In Phase 2, churches, places of worship and many more businesses will be able to operate at 50 percent capacity with social distancing, masks for public-facing employees and increased sanitation. In addition, the state strongly recommends that businesses consider offering temperature checks before a person can enter and posting the symptoms of COVID-19 outside with a request that symptomatic individuals not enter. Self storage is not impacted by this order and may continue to operate.
  • On May, Governor extended the state of emergency until at least June 5. 
  • Check back here for additional updates.

Maine:

  • Governor issued an order, requiring use of masks as well as limiting permissible gathering sizes. 
  • Governor extended the state of emergency. 
  • On July 8, Governor extended the state of emergency until August 8. 
  • On July 8, Governor issued an order that expanded the mask requirement to retail stores with over 50,000 square feet of shopping space, eating establishments, bars, tasting rooms, and lodging operations and accommodations (as defined in Executive Order 57 FY 19/20) located in the Counties of Cumberland, Hancock, Knox, Lincoln, Sagadahoc, Waldo and York, or in the Municipalities of Auburn, Augusta, Bangor, Brewer, and Lewiston must implement measures requiring customers to wear face coverings. Such measures may, for example, include denial of entry or service. The establishment's responsibility under this section is in addition to compliance with all applicable Executive Orders, State of Maine guidance and the Restarting Maine's Economy COVID-19 Prevention Checklists, including the use of signage stating that face coverings are required.
  • On June 1, Maine enters Phase 2 of reopening. The state also issued guidance for real estate professionals. 
  • On April 29, Governor issued an order, extending the stay home order until May 31. It also requires that individuals wear face coverings in public settings, including self storage facilities. 
  • Governor issued an order, requiring all residents to stay at home except for limited purposes such as traveling to and working at essential businesses. As defined in the order outlined below, self storage is deemed essential. To reduce the risk of community spread, essential stores shall: Implement and actively enforce social distancing requirements and around their facilities. Prominently post signage at all public entrances instructing customers to remain six feet away from other people inside and outside the store. Mark every customer line with signage and floor lines designed to impose social distancing. Disinfect the handles of every used cart and basket prior to customer reuse. Take all reasonable steps to minimize customer handling of unpurchased merchandise. Offer separate operating hours for persons over the age of 60 and customers with medical conditions to be the only customers in the store.
  • Governor issued an order, requiring closure of nonessential businesses. Essential businesses include those businesses providing services that enable logistics operations, including cooling, storing, packaging and distributing products for the wholesale or retail sale or use. This includes self storage. Also, nonessential business may continue those activities that do not allow customer, vendor, or other visitor in-person contact.
  • Businesses must also implement, the extent practicable, having their employees work remotely or otherwise comply with social distancing requirements, including maintaining six-foot social distancing for both employees and members of the public at all times, including but not limited to, when customers are standing in line. Additionally, businesses must have hand sanitizer and sanitizing products readily available for employees and customers, implement separate operating hours for elderly and vulnerable customers, and post online whether the facility is open and how best to reach the facility.  
  • Check back here for additional updates.

Maryland:

  • Governor issued an order, imposing restrictions on crowd size and mandating mask usage, among other requirements. 
  • Governor issued an order, imposing restrictions on crowd size and mandating mask usage, among other requirements. 
  • Prince George’s County has commenced COVID-19 inspections, examining if businesses are complying with applicable social distancing, cleaning, and other requirements related to COVID-19.
  • As the legal basis for its enforcement efforts, the inspectors cite Governor Hogan’s Executive Order 20-04-05-02 “Delegating Authority to Local Health Officials to Control and Close Unsafe Facilities,” Executive Order  20-09-28-01 “Amending and Restating the Order of September 18, 2020, Allowing Reopening of Certain Businesses, Subject to Local Regulation, and Generally Requiring Use of Face Coverings,” Prince George’s County Code 6-134, and several local orders and directives that can be accessed here.
  • Among other provisions, county officials have inspected and cited for the following: Signage to promote social distancing (e.g., floor markers); Protocols for training employees; Screening process for employees; Number of individuals allowed in facility for social distancing; Failure to promote social distancing outside of the facility; Customer seating staged to ensure social distancing; Social distancing compliance in the facility, work areas, break rooms, lockers and entry; Availability of hand washing stations; Enhanced cleaning and disinfection practices; Failure to wear face masks; and, Failure to provide signage regarding face make requirement.
  • Governor extended the state of emergency. 
  • Governor extended the mask mandate in the state.
  • On June 3, Governor issued an order, permitting certain businesses to start to slowly reopen, subject to occupancy limitations and other restrictions. Self storage was previously deemed essential and is not impacted by this order.
  • On April 27, Governor issued the Roadmap to Recovery. It lays out a path to gradually and responsibly reopen Maryland’s economy and details the “new normal” necessary to do so. It also recognizes that economic recovery and protecting public health are not opposing goals – they are the same goal and must work together hand in hand. Self storage is not impacted by it and may remain open.
  • The Governor extended the state of emergency. 
  • On April 15, Governor issued an order, requiring all staff at retail establishments to wear protective face coverings while working in areas open to the general public and areas in which interactions with other staff are likely. “Face Covering” means a covering that fully covers a person’s nose and mouth, but is not a Medical-Grade Mask. The term “face covering” includes, without limitation, scarves and bandanas.
  • Also, all retail establishments must, in good faith and to the extent possible: where any queue is expected to form, designated with signage, tape, or by other means at least six-foot spacing for persons in line; ii. sanitize, or provide customers with a means to sanitize, handles of carts and baskets that are available to customers; iii. provide staff and customers with clean restrooms stocked with soap or sanitizer, and allow staff to wash their hands at least once every 30 minutes.
  • Self storage is not retail but may qualify as a “retail establishment” per the definition in the order, as “stores that sell supplies for household consumption or use, and/or products needed to maintain safety, sanitation, and essential maintenance of the home or residence.” Even if an operator does not consider their business to be a “retail establishment” as defined in the order, it may be advisable to implement the preventative measures anyway.
  • imprisonment not exceeding one year or a fine not exceeding $5,000 or both.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

 

Massachusetts:

  • Governor issued an order on gathering sizes and use of masks. 
  • Governor issued an order on gathering sizes. 
  • On June 6, Governor issued an order, announcing that the state was moving to Phase 2 of its reopening plan. 
  • On May 18, Governor issued an order, permitting certain businesses to reopen and imposing additional preventative measures that all businesses must implement. Self storage may remain open subject to the requirements outlined below.
  • All persons, including employees, customers, and vendors should remain at least six feet apart to the greatest extent possible, both inside and outside workplaces. Establish protocols to ensure that employees can practice adequate social distancing. Provide signage for safe social distancing. Require face coverings or masks for all employees. Provide hand-washing capabilities throughout the workplace. Ensure frequent hand washing by employees and adequate supplies to do so. Provide regular sanitization of high touch areas, such as workstations, equipment, screens, doorknobs, restrooms throughout work site. Provide training for employees regarding the social distancing and hygiene protocols. Employees who are displaying COVID-19-like symptoms do not report to work. Establish a plan for employees getting ill from COVID-19 at work, and a return-to-work plan. Establish and maintain cleaning protocols specific to the business When an active employee is diagnosed with COVID-19, cleaning and disinfecting must be performed.
  • Effective May 6, Governor issued an order, requiring all residents to wear face coverings for their nose and mouth.
  • Governor issued an order, limiting gatherings to ten people or fewer. It also requires closures of businesses that do not provide essential services.
  • The full list of essential services can be viewed here.  Residential and commercial real estate services are deemed essential and may remain open. Self storage is the rental of real property and it is therefore essential and may remain open.
  • Additional guidance on permissible gatherings can be viewed here.

Michigan:

  • Governor extended the state of emergency until October 1, 2020. 
  • Governor issued an order, requiring individuals to wear a face covering whenever they are in an indoor public space. It also requires the use of face coverings in crowded outdoor spaces. Most significantly, the order requires any business that is open to the public to refuse entry or service to people who refuse to wear a face covering. No shirts, no shoes, no mask—no service
  • Governor announced that the state of emergency would be extended until August 11, 2020.
  • Governor extended the state of emergency until July 16.
  • On June 1, Governor issued an order, imposing “Temporary restrictions on certain events, gatherings, and businesses.”
  • Any work that is capable of being performed remotely (i.e., without the worker leaving his or her home or place of residence) must be performed remotely. Any business or operation that requires its employees to leave their home or place of residence for work is subject to the rules on workplace safeguards in Executive Order 2020-97 or any order that may follow from it. Any individual who leaves his or her home or place of residence must: follow social distancing measures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”), including remaining at least six feet from people from outside the individual’s household to the extent feasible under the circumstances. Wear a face covering over his or her nose and mouth—such as a homemade mask, scarf, bandana, or handkerchief—when in any enclosed public space, unless the individual is unable medically to tolerate a face covering.
  • An individual may be required to temporarily remove a face covering upon entering an enclosed public space for identification purposes. An individual may also remove a face covering to eat or drink when seated at a restaurant or bar.
  • Businesses and building owners, and those authorized to act on their behalf, are permitted to deny entry or access to any individual who refuses to comply with the rule in this subsection (b). Businesses and building owners will not be subject to a claim that they have violated the covenant of quiet enjoyment, to a claim of frustration of purpose, or to similar claims for denying entry or access to a person who refuses to comply with this subsection (b).
  • On May 27, Governor extended the stay home order until June 12. 
  • On May 7, Governor issued an order, extending the stay home order until at least May 28 and adding new requirements.  Businesses must develop a COVID-19 preparedness and response plan, consistent with recommendations in Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19, developed by the Occupational Health and Safety Administration. Such plan must be available at company headquarters or the worksite. Restrict the number of workers present on premises to no more than is strictly necessary to perform the in-person work permitted under this order. Promote remote work to the fullest extent possible. Keep workers and patrons who are on premises at least six feet from one another to the maximum extent possible. Require masks to be worn when workers cannot consistently maintain six feet of separation from other individuals in the workplace, and consider face shields when workers cannot consistently maintain three feet of separation from other individuals in the workplace. Increase standards of facility cleaning and disinfection to limit worker and patron exposure to COVID-19, as well as adopting protocols to clean and disinfect in the event of a positive COVID-19 case in the workplace. Adopt policies to prevent workers from entering the premises if they display respiratory symptoms or have had contact with a person with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19. Adopt any other social distancing practices and mitigation measures recommended by the CDC. Businesses or operations must also prohibit gatherings of any size in which people cannot maintain six feet of distance from one another. Limit in-person interaction with clients and patrons to the maximum extent possible, and bar any such interaction in which people cannot maintain six feet of distance from one another. Provide personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, face shields, and face masks as appropriate for the activity being performed. Adopt protocols to limit the sharing of tools and equipment to the maximum extent possible and to ensure frequent and thorough cleaning and disinfection of tools, equipment, and frequently touched surfaces.
  • On April 24, Governor extended the stay home order until at least May 15 and added additional requirements that businesses must implement.  All businesses and operations whose workers perform in-person work must, at a minimum, provide non-medical grade face coverings to their workers. Self storage operations are permitted to continue subject to the mask requirement.
  • To the extent self storage businesses closed pursuant to the Governor’s previous orders, the April 24 order expressly allows for the resumption of business by “workers for moving or storage operations, subject to the enhanced social-distancing rules described in section 11(h) of this order.” The order provides the social distancing requirements that such businesses must meet.
  • On April 9, Governor issued an order, rescinding a prior executive order and temporarily requiring the suspension of activities that are not necessary to sustain or protect life. Residents are instructed to stay home except for limited permissible purposes, including performing their jobs as critical infrastructure workers after being so designated by their employers. Businesses and operations must determine which of their workers are critical infrastructure workers and inform such workers of that designation. Businesses and operations must make such designations in writing, whether by electronic message, public website, or other appropriate means. Workers do not need to carry copies of their designations when they leave the home or place of residence for work. The following are all deemed critical infrastructure and describe self storage operations.
  • Critical infrastructure includes any suppliers, distribution centers, or service providers whose continued operation is necessary to enable, support, or facilitate another business’s or operation’s critical infrastructure.
  • Any suppliers, distribution centers, or service providers whose continued operation is necessary to enable, support, or facilitate the necessary work of suppliers, distribution centers, or service.
  • Any suppliers, distribution centers, or service providers further down the supply chain whose continued operation is necessary to enable, support, or facilitate the necessary work of other suppliers, distribution centers, or service providers may likewise designate their workers as critical infrastructure workers, provided that only those workers whose in-person presence is necessary to enable, support, or facilitate such work may be so designated.
  • In addition to critical infrastructure workers, workers who are necessary to conduct minimum basic operations are permitted to go to work. Those workers include individuals whose in-person presence is strictly necessary to allow the business or operation to maintain the value of inventory and equipment, care for animals, ensure security, process transactions (including payroll and employee benefits), or facilitate the ability of other workers to work remotely.
  • Businesses and operations must determine which of their workers are necessary to conduct minimum basic operations and inform such workers of that designation. Businesses and operations must make such designations in writing, whether by electronic message, public website, or other appropriate means. Workers need not carry copies of their designations when they leave the home or place of residence for work. Any in-person work necessary to conduct minimum basic operations must be performed consistently with the social distancing practices and other mitigation measures described in the order.
  • Businesses that remain open must meet the following social distancing requirements: Restricting the number of workers present on premises to no more than is strictly necessary to perform the business’s or operation’s critical infrastructure functions; promoting remote work to the fullest extent possible; keeping workers and patrons who are on premises at least six feet from one another to the maximum extent possible, including for customers who are standing in line; increasing standards of facility cleaning and disinfection to limit worker and patron exposure to COVID-19, as well as adopting protocols to clean and disinfect in the event of a positive COVID-19 case in the workplace; adopting policies to prevent workers from entering the premises if they display respiratory symptoms or have had contact with a person who is known or suspected to have COVID-19; and any other social distancing practices and mitigation measures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

Minnesota:

  • Governor announced his intention to extend the state of emergency until December 12, 2020. 
  • Governor issued an order that all businesses must continue to comply with applicable Stay Safe Minnesota guidance and limits gathering sizes to no more than 10 people.
  • Governor extended the state of emergency until November 12, 2020.
  • On August 12, Governor extended the state of emergency.
  • On July 14, Governor extended the state of emergency until at least August 12, 2020
  • On June 5, Governor issued an order, permitting certain businesses to reopen and imposing certain requirements and restrictions on both critical and non-critical businesses.
  • Beginning on June 29, 2020, all Critical Businesses must have developed and implemented a COVID-19 Preparedness Plan as set forth in paragraph 7.e of this Executive Order and in accordance with the industry guidance currently posted to the Stay Safe Minnesota website (https://staysafe.mn.gov) and any additional applicable industry guidance that will be posted to the Stay Safe Minnesota website (https://staysafe.mn.gov) on or before June 15, 2020 as provided in this Executive Order.
  • Workers and businesses. Workers and businesses are subject to the requirements set forth below. These requirements may be clarified, as deemed necessary by the Governor, to ensure the health, safety, and security of all Minnesotans. Clarifications will be available for public review at the State’s COVID-19 website (https://mn.gov/covid19/). a. Continue to work from home whenever possible. Any worker who can work from home must do so. b. Safe work. The protections noted in Executive Order 20-54 (Protecting Workers from Unsafe Working Conditions and Retaliation) remain in full force and effect. All work must be conducted in a manner that adheres to Minnesota OSHA Standards and MDH and CDC Guidelines, including social distancing and hygiene practices. Under existing law and authority, DLI may issue citations, civil penalties, or closure orders to places of employment with unsafe or unhealthy conditions, and DLI may penalize businesses that retaliate against employees who raise safety and health concerns.
  • On May 13, Governor issued an order “Safely Reopening Minnesota’s Economy and Ensuring Safe Non-Work Activities during the COVID-19 Peacetime Emergency.”  Critical businesses, including self storage, may continue to operate as they have under prior orders.
  • On May 13, Governor extended the state of emergency until June 12. 
  • On April 23, Governor issued an order permitting certain businesses to reopen. Noncritical exempt businesses are permitted to reopen after they prepare a COVID-19 Preparedness Plan in accordance with certain standards and rules outlined in the order. This order does not affect self storage and may continue to operate as an essential business outlined in the order below.
  • Governor issued an order, directing all citizens to stay at home until at least May 18 except for certain limited activities such as obtaining food or traveling to work at an essential business. Among other essential businesses are workers supporting moving and relocation services; real estate services; and workers supporting businesses that sell products, tools, materials, or supplies necessary for: (1) Critical Sectors to continue their essential operations, (2) for workers to work from home, or (3) for the maintenance of the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of homes or residences. These describe self storage.
  • The order includes in critical infrastructure essential workers and businesses in the following categories, all of which describe self storage: (1) service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation or residences, businesses and buildings; (2) commercial real estate services; (3) last-mile delivery; (4) workers who support the supply chain of building materials; (5) employees who provide services that enable repair materials and equipment for essential functions; and (6) employees of firms providing services that enable operations, including storing products for whole or retail sale or use.
  • Allowed activities and work performed, including self storage should, to the maximum extent possible, be conducted in a manner that adheres to Minnesota Occupational Safety and Health Standards and the Minnesota Department of Health and CDC Guidelines related to COVID-19, including social distancing and hygiene.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

Mississippi:

  • Governor announced he would extend the “Safe Recovery” Order through December 11, 2020.
  • Governor extended mask mandate.
  • Governor issued an order, requiring use of face coverings when inside a businesses, building, or space open to the public or when in an outdoor publica whenever it is not possible to maintain a minimum of six feet of social distancing.
  • Governor issued an order, limiting the permissible sizes of indoor and outdoor gatherings. 
  • On July 21, Governor issued an order, requiring businesses to attempt in good faith to follow the MS Department of Health’s and CDC’s regulations as well as several other preventative measures outlined in the order. 
  • On July 2, Governor issued an order, reinstating EO 1492. This requires compliance with the measures outlined below. 
  • On May 29, the Governor extended the state of emergency until June 15. 
  • On May 28, Governor announced safe return order that becomes operative on June 1.
  • On May 12, Governor issued an order, requiring new social distancing guidelines in Attala, Leake, Scott, Jasper, Neshoba, Newton, and Lauderdale Counties until May 25.
  • All businesses in those counties must take all reasonable steps to ensure compliance with the Mississippi State Department of Health's and CDC's regulations, orders and guidance to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including, but not limited to: social distancing; sending sick employees home; actively encouraging sick employees to stay home; separating and sending home employees who appear to have respiratory illness symptoms; adopting and enforcing regular and proper hand-washing and personal hygiene protocols; and daily screening of employees for COVID-19 related symptoms before beginning their shifts.
  • Each employee shall be screened at the beginning of their shift. Such daily screening shall include, at a minimum, the following questions, and any employee answering any question in the affirmative shall be sent home: Have you been in close contact with a confirmed case of COVID- 19 in the past 14 days? Are you experiencing a cough, shortness of breath, or sore throat? Have you had a fever in the last 48 hours? Have you had new loss of taste or smell? Have you had vomiting or diarrhea in the last 24 hours?
  • All employees shall be required to report any symptoms of COVID-19 to their supervisor, and any employee who exhibits any of the symptoms of COVID-19 during their shift shall be sent home immediately and advised to consult with their physician.
  • Appropriate PPE shall be worn by all employees based on their duties and responsibilities and in adherence to state and local regulations and guidelines. Appropriate PPE shall include a face covering, covering the nose and mouth, for all employees who are unable to maintain a minimum of 6 feet of separation from other employees while on duty and during breaks, and such face coverings shall be cleaned or replaced at least daily.
  • Hand sanitizer shall be provided to all employees. Hand sanitizer shall mean any hand antiseptic, hand rub, soap, or agent applied to the hands for purpose of removing common pathogens.
  • On May 8, Governor issued an order, extending the safer at home order until May 25 and permitting certain businesses such as gyms and barber shops to reopen subject to certain restrictions. Self storage is permitted to remain open. 
  • On April 24, Governor issued a safer at home order that remains effective until at least May 11. The safer at home order encourages those in Mississippi to stay home, and requires the cancellation of mass gatherings of more than 10 people. Businesses that continue operating should practice social distancing, close common spaces “to the extent possible,” and practice sanitization.  Self storage is permitted to remain open and operational under the order.
  • On April 17, Governor extended until April 27 Mississippi’s stay in place order that closes all non-essential businesses in the state. The order adopts the definition of exempt official business as defined in executive order 1463, which made exemptions made for “essential” businesses as defined by the federal CISA guidance
  • On April 1, the Governor issued an order, implementing shelter in place for all citizens. Citizens are directed to stay at home except for limited purposes such as traveling to and working at an essential business. Self storage is deemed an essential business in the order outlined below.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

Missouri:

  • State of Emergency extended until December 30, 2020. 
  • Missouri issued a public health order allowing for a partial reopening of businesses beginning on May 4 as part the “Show Me Strong Recovery” plan. The order will stay in effect through May 31 and allow for the reopening of non-essential businesses including retail and dine-in restaurants as long as they enforce social distancing and limit capacity to a proportion of square footage as outlined within the order. A FAQ was also issued with the order. Self storage may remain open.  The order was then extended until June 15.
  • Governor extended the state of emergency until at least June 15.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

Kansas City

  • Kansas City Mayor has issued a stay at home order, requiring all citizens to stay at home.    However, individuals may leave their residences or place of rest only to perform “Essential Activities.”  Among other actions, citizens may leave their home to perform work providing essential products and services at an Essential Business or to otherwise carry out activities specifically permitted, including Minimum Basic Operations. Essential businesses include those businesses that provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences. Also, businesses that supply products needed for people to work from home as well as businesses that supply other essential businesses with the support or supplies necessary to operate.
  • Even if a business is not deemed essential under the Kansas City Mayor’s Order, other businesses may maintain “Minimum Basic Operations.” Provided that employees comply with Social Distancing Requirements, to the extent possible, those businesses may maintain the minimum necessary activities to maintain the value of the business’s inventory and facilities, ensure security, process payroll and employee benefits, or for related functions; and the minimum necessary activities to facilitate employees of the business being able to continue to work remotely from their residences, place of rest, or elsewhere.

Montana:

  • Governor Bullock issued a directive requiring face coverings in certain indoor spaces and for certain organized outdoor activities in counties currently experiencing four or more active cases of COVID-19 to slow the spread of the virus in Montana. Governor Bullock issued the directive to require businesses, government offices and other indoor spaces open to the public to ensure that employees, contractors, volunteers, customers, and other members of the public wear a face mask that covers their mouth and nose while remaining inside these spaces. The directive also requires face coverings at organized outdoor activities of 50 or more people, where social distancing is not possible or is not observed.
  • On April 22, the Governor issued a health directive extending the stay at home order until April 27. After April 27, businesses are no longer designated essential or non-essential, except as otherwise provided in the Directive. Effective Monday, April 27, employers should: Continue to encourage telework whenever possible and feasible with business operations. When telework is not feasible, employers are encouraged to accommodate alternative work schedules such as shift work and staggered scheduling in order to adhere to social distancing guidelines. Close common areas where personnel are likely to congregate and interact, or enforce strict social distancing protocols. Minimize non-essential business travel. Make special accommodations for members of a vulnerable population or those with vulnerable household members. Self storage is permitted to operate in accordance these guidelines.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

Nebraska:

  • Nebraska is not currently under a stay home order.
  • The Department of Health and Human Services issued a directive, prohibiting gatherings of 10 or more individuals.  
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

Nevada:

  • On July 10, Governor issued an order, requiring bars and restaurants to reduce operating capacity to combat the spread of the virus. Self storage is not impacted.
  • Governor issued an order, requiring non-exempt individuals issued by the Nevada Health Response to cover their nose and mouth with a mask or face covering when in a public space, whether publicly owned or privately owned.
  • More specifically, the order also provides for several OSHA recommendations and requirements for all businesses operating during Phase 2 include all employers must provide face coverings for employees assigned to serving the public and shall require these employees to wear the face coverings – Required. All employers should require employees to wear a face covering in any space visited by the general public, even if no one else is present – Recommended. All businesses are required to mandate the use of face coverings by patrons, customers, patients, or clients and will notify/inform all patrons, customers, patients, and clients of the requirement prior to their entry into the establishment, with the exceptions delineated in Section 7 of Declaration 024 – Required. Face coverings must be used in public spaces incorporated in or controlled by a business – Required. Close or limit access to common areas where employees are likely to congregate or interact, and when in common areas required face coverings for employees – Required. Promote frequent and thorough hand washing – Required. Maintain regular housekeeping practices, including routine cleaning and disinfecting of surfaces and equipment, and provide sanitation and cleaning supplies to address those services – Required. Conduct daily surveys of changes to staff/labor health conditions – Required. Ensure that any identified first responders in the labor force are provided and use the needed Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – Required. Provide access to potable and sanitary water - Required
  • Governor extended Phase 2 to June 30.
  • On May 28, Governor announced that the state was entering Phase 2 of the reopening plan. Businesses may adopt practices that exceed the standards imposed by Declaration of Emergency Directives, guidelines promulgated by the Nevada State Occupational Safety and Health Administration (NV OSHA) or LEAP guidelines, but in no case shall business practices be more permissive than the provisions of this Directive or those imposed by NV OSHA and the LEAP. Businesses performing non-retail services, including without limitation, legal services, accounting services, or real estate services, are encouraged to conduct business telephonically or virtually to the greatest extent practicable. These businesses are encouraged to permit employees to work from home to the greatest extent practicable. Self storage may remain open subject to the operating mandates outlined in the order.
  • On May 7, Governor announced that Nevada was moving to Phase I of the reopening plan on May 9. It permits certain businesses that were previously required to close to reopen, such as restaurants. It also requires that all employers to provide employees with face coverings and adopt measures from the Nevada Occupational Safety and Health Administration (NV-OSHA). Self storage is permitted to open subject to those requirements above. 
  • NV-OSHA recently issued new requirements that both essential and nonessential businesses in the state must implement under Phase I of the Governor’s Roadmap to Recovery for Nevada.
  • All employers must provide face coverings for employees assigned to serving the public and shall require these employees to wear the face coverings; prohibit gatherings of 10 or more people; promote frequent and thorough hand washing, including providing workers, customers, and worksite visitors with a place to wash their hands. If soap and running water are not immediately available, provide alcohol‐based hand rubs containing at least 60% alcohol; maintain regular housekeeping practices, including routine cleaning and disinfecting of surfaces and equipment with Environmental Protection Agency‐approved cleaning chemicals from List N or that have label claims against the coronavirus; conduct daily surveys of changes to staff/labor health conditions; ensure that any identified first responders in the labor force are provided and use the needed Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and equipment for protection from communicable or infections disease; and, provide access to potable and sanitary water.
  • The following measures are required to be implemented by the employer when employees are conducting specific job functions where 6 feet of social distancing is infeasible/impractical.  A Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) may be completed for each task, procedure, or instance that is identified where social distancing infeasible/impractical.  Any JHA drafted for this purpose must be equivalent in detail and scope as identified in Federal OSHA publication 3071; a JHA developed for this purpose must identify the task being addressed, hazard being addressed (spread of COVID‐19), and controls to be used to address the hazard; any policy, practice, or protocol developed pursuant to the JHA must be as effective or more effective as the 6 feet social distancing; engineering controls, administrative controls, and PPE identified and developed through the JHA to address the hazard must be supplied by the employer; training must be provided to staff for any policy, practice, or protocol that is used to address the hazard via a JHA; and, training must be provided to staff for any equipment, engineered process, administrative control, or PPE that was identified and developed through the JHA to address the social distancing requirements or alternative policies, practices, or protocols implemented when social distancing is infeasible/impractical.
  • On April 27, Nevada joined the Regional State Partnership: Western States Pact - a working group of Western state governors with a shared vision for modifying stay at home orders and fighting COVID-19.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

New Hampshire:

  • Governor extended the state of emergency until November 15, 2020. 
  • Governor extended his previous order from June 15 regarding guidelines for businesses to follow until September 1, 2020. 
  • On June 15, Governor issued an order, requiring businesses to comply with the guidelines that can be found here.
  • Governor extended the Stay at Home Order until June 15. 
  • The Governor announced that the Stay at Home Order 2.0 would remain in effect until May 31.  The order also provided universal guidance for all businesses that can be viewed here
  • On April 24, Governor issued an order, extending the stay at home order as well as the state of emergency until at least May 15. Storage operators may remain open.
  • Governor issued an order, directing citizens to stay at home and closing nonessential businesses until at least May 4. Citizens are permitted to leave home for limited activities such as working at an essential business. Essential businesses are outlined here and include businesses with workers who support moving and storage services. This includes self storage. Essential businesses are required to implement social distancing consistent with the CDC.
  • Governor issued an order, stopping landlords from instituting judicial and non-judicial eviction proceedings for residential and non-residential tenants.  All lien sales should likely cease for now.
  • March 16 order by the governor specifically exempts businesses from limits on gatherings of people over 50.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

New Jersey:

  • New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy issued an order that requires all businesses in New Jersey, including self storage owners and operators, to implement several measures outlined below starting on November 5.
  • Every operator that requires or permits employees to be physically present at their facility must: Require that individuals maintain at least six feet of distance from one another to the maximum extent possible; Require employees, customers, visitors, and other individuals entering the worksite to wear cloth or disposable face masks while on the premises, with limited exceptions; Permit employees to remove face masks when the employees are situated at their workstations and are more than six feet from other individuals at the workplace, or when an individual is alone in a walled office; Provide, at their expense, face masks to their employees; Deny entry to the worksite to any employee, customer, or visitor who declines to wear a face mask, except when doing so would violate State or federal law; Provide sanitization materials, such as hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol and sanitizing wipes that are approved by the United States Environmental Protection Agency for SARS-CoV-2 virus to employees, customers, and visitors at no cost to those individuals; Ensure that employees practice regular hand hygiene, particularly when such employees are interacting with the public, and provide employees break time for repeated handwashing throughout the workday and access to adequate hand washing facilities; Clean and disinfect routinely all high-touch areas in accordance with DOH and CDC guidelines, particularly in spaces that are accessible to employees, customers, or other individuals; Separate and send home employees who appear to have symptoms; Clean and disinfect the worksite in accordance with CDC guidelines when an employee at the site has been diagnosed with COVID-19 illness; and, Continue to follow guidelines and directives issued by the New Jersey DOH, the CDC and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, as applicable, for maintaining a clean, safe, and healthy work environment.
  • On July 8, Governor issued order that requires near universal use of masks both indoor and outdoors, with limited exceptions. 
  • On May 18, Governor issued an order, permitting certain businesses to reopen. Self storage is not impacted by this order and may continue to operate.  
  • On April 27, Governor presented  “The Road Back: Restoring Economic Health Through Public Health.” It outlines 6 principles to restore the economy. Self storage is not impacted.
  • On April 8, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy issued an order, imposing additional mitigation requirements on essential retail businesses and industries that are permitted to remain open. Subject to additional requirements outlined below, self storage operators may remain open under the new order.
  • The new order also extends many of the requirements imposed by the March 21 order that directed all residents to stay at home except for certain exceptions, such as traveling to and working at certain businesses. The orders collectively close several nonessential retail, recreational, and entertainment businesses as well as nonessential construction sites.
  • Again, the new order permits self storage operators to remain open, but telework or work-from-home arrangements must be implemented wherever practicable. The order imposes additional mandates on owners of buildings used for commercial, industrial, or other enterprises, including self storage. Operators must adopt policies that, at minimum, implement the following cleaning protocols: Clean and disinfect high-touch areas routinely in accordance with CDC guidelines, particularly in spaces that are accessible to staff, customers, tenants, or other individuals, and ensure cleaning procedures following a known or potential exposure in a facility are in compliance with CDC recommendations; Otherwise maintain cleaning procedures in all other areas of the facility; and, Ensure that the facility has a sufficient number of workers to perform the above protocols effectively and in a manner that ensures the safety of occupants, visitors, and workers.
  • Require workers and customers to wear cloth face coverings while on the premises, except where doing so would inhibit that individual’s health or where the individual is under two years of age, and require workers to wear gloves when in contact with customers or goods. Businesses must provide, at their expense, such face coverings and gloves for their employees. If a customer refuses to wear a cloth face covering for non-medical reasons and if such covering cannot be provided to the individual by the business at the point of entry, then the business must decline entry to the individual, unless if the business is providing medication, medical supplies, or food, in which case the business policy should provide alternate methods of pickup and/or delivery of such goods. Nothing in the stated policy should prevent workers or customers from wearing a surgical-grade mask or other more protective face covering if the individual is already in possession of such equipment, or if the business is otherwise required to provide such worker with more protective equipment due to the nature of the work involved.
  • The Governor issued an order, invalidating any order issued by any local government official that in any way will or might conflict with any of the provisions of the stay home order or which will or might in any way interfere with or impede its achievement.
  • Check back here for additional updates.

New Mexico:

  • Department of Health order extended. 
  • On July 30, Governor extended the public health emergency until August 28, 2020. 
  • On June 30, Governor issued an order, reinstating several measures to control the spread of COVID 19. Essential businesses, including self storage, may  remain open but must operate in accordance with the pertinent "COVID-Safe Practices (CSPs)" section(s) of the "All Together New Mexico: COVID-Safe Practices for Individuals and Employers and also any identified occupancy restrictions.
  • All mass gatherings are also prohibited. Mass gathering means any public gathering, private gathering, organized event, ceremony, parade, or other grouping that brings together five (5) or more individuals in a single room or connected space, confined outdoor space or an open outdoor space. This likely will impact any in-person lien sales.  
  • Governor extended the state of emergency until July 1. 
  • Governor announced that starting on June 1 certain businesses will be able to reopen subject to occupancy limitations and other restrictions. 
  • On May 13, Governor announced that the stay home order will be modified and extended until May 31.
  • On April 6, New Mexico Governor Lujan Grisham announced the renewal of the public health emergency declaration through at least April 30, 2020, requiring residents to stay at home and adding new operating limitations for certain businesses, including self storage. Self storage is specifically described and limited in the new order, “Self-storage facilities should reduce operations to the minimum number of employees necessary to ensure public access to storage units and adequate security for storage units, including a 100% reduction in permanent on-site workforce whenever possible.” Therefore, operators in the state may remain open but must conform to the new order.
  • This email from the Governor’s office confirms that self storage is an essential business in New Mexico.
  • “Essential businesses” may remain open provided they minimize their operations and staff to the greatest extent possible. Further, all essential businesses shall, to the greatest extent possible, adhere to social distancing protocol and maintain at least six-foot social distancing from other individuals, avoid person-to-person contact, and direct employees to wash their hands frequently. Further, all essential businesses shall ensure that all surfaces are cleaned routinely.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

New York:

  • On May 29, Governor issued an order, stating that business operators and building owners, and those authorized on their behalf shall have the discretion to ensure compliance the order requiring any individual over age two, and able to medically tolerate a face-covering, be required to cover their nose and mouth with a mask or cloth face-covering when in a public place), including the discretion to deny admittance to individuals who fail to comply with the directive.
  • Executive Order 202.31, which extended the provisions of Executive Orders 202.3, 202.4, 202.5, 202.6, 202.7, 202.8, 202.10, 202.11, 202.13, 202.14, 202.28 which each closed or otherwise restricted public or private businesses or places of public accommodation, and Executive Order 202.32 as modified by Executive Order 202.33 which required postponement, cancellation, or restriction on size of all non-essential gatherings of more than ten individuals, and which together constitute New York On PAUSE, is hereby continued until and unless later amended or extended by a future Executive Order, provided, however:
  • As soon as a region meets the prescribed public health and safety metrics, as determined by the Department of Health, they will be eligible for Phase One reopening.
  • Businesses or entities open pursuant to Department of Health guidance must be operated subject to the guidance promulgated by the Department of Health.
  • As of May 28, 2020 the regions meeting the prescribed public health and safety metrics required for Phase One reopening are: Finger Lakes, Central New York, Mohawk Valley, Southern Tier, North Country, Western New York, Capital Region, Mid-Hudson, and Long Island. Such regions include the counties of Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Wayne, Wyoming, Yates, Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, Onondaga, Oswego, Fulton, Herkimer, Montgomery, Oneida, Otsego, Schoharie, Broome, Chemung, Chenango, Delaware, Schuyler, Steuben, Tioga, Tompkins, Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lewis, St. Lawrence, Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Niagara, Albany, Columbia, Greene, Saratoga, Schenectady, Rensselaer, Warren, Washington, Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster, Westchester, Nassau, and Suffolk. Any additional regions which meet the criteria after such date will be deemed to be incorporated into this Executive Order without further revision and will be permitted to re-open Phase One industries, subject to the same terms and conditions.
  • On May 14, Governor issued an order, that extended several previously-issued orders that closed or otherwise restricted public or private businesses or places of public accommodation, and which required postponement or cancellation of all non-essential gatherings of individuals of any size for any reason (e.g. parties, celebrations, games, meetings or other social events), until May 28, 2020.
  • On May 15, 2020 the reductions and restrictions on the in-person workforce at non-essential businesses or other entities shall no longer apply to Phase One industries: Construction, Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting, Retail - (Limited to curbside or in-store pickup or drop off); Manufacturing and Wholesale Trade. Such businesses or entities must be operated subject to the guidance promulgated by the Department of Health; Only those businesses or entities in a region that meets the  prescribed public health and safety metrics, as determined by the Department of Health, will be eligible for reopening.
  • As of May 14, 2020 the regions are: Finger Lakes, Central New York, Mohawk Valley, Southern Tier and the North Country regions comprising the counties of: Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Wayne, Wyoming, Yates Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, Onondaga, Oswego, Fulton, Herkimer, Montgomery, Oneida, Otsego, Schoharie, Broome, Chemung, Chenango, Delaware, Schuyler, Steuben, Tioga, Tompkins Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence. Any additional regions which meet the criteria after such date will be deemed to be incorporated into this Executive Order without further revision and will be permitted to re-open phase one industries, subject to the same terms and conditions.
  • All enforcement mechanisms by state or local governments shall continue to be in full force an effect until June 13, 2020 unless later extended or amended by a future Executive Order.
  • On April 16, Gov. Cuomo extended New York’s order to close non-essential businesses until May 15.
  • On April 13, Governor issued an order, requiring all essential businesses’ employees who are present in the workplace to be provided and wear face coverings when in direct contact with customers or members of the public. Businesses must provide, at their expense, such face coverings for their employees. This requirement becomes effective April 15 at 8 p.m.
  • Governor issued an order, requiring that businesses implement telecommuting policies and reduce in person workforce by 50% by March 20 at 8 PM. On March 20, the governor announced that in person workforce must be reduced by 100%.
  • An essential business includes vendors of essential services necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation and essential operations of residences or other essential businesses;  businesses that provide storage for essential services; vendors that provide essential services or products, including logistics and technology support. These all describe self storage.
  • State has also set up a portal for businesses to submit questions to the state as well as a FAQ page. 
  • Any business that only has a single occupant/employee (i.e. gas station) has been deemed exempt and need not submit a request to be designated as an essential business.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

North Carolina:

  • Governor extended Phase III order. 
  • Governor issued an order, starting Phase III in the state. It mandates, among other requirements, use of masks well as puts limits on permissible crowd sizes. 
  • On August 5, Governor issued an order, extending Phase II in the state. 
  • On May 15, Governor issued an order that extends price gouging prohibitions until at least June 26 and prohibits mass gatherings of 25 people or more. It also permits certain businesses to reopen. Self storage may continue to operate.
  • On May 5, Governor issued an order, easing the stay at home order. It permits residents to leave their homes to perform work at any business, nonprofit, government, or other organization that is not closed by this Executive Order. Self storage is permitted to remain open.
  • All businesses that operate during the effective period of this Executive Order are strongly encouraged to continue to promote telework and limit non-essential travel whenever possible. Promote social distancing by reducing the number of people coming to the office, by providing six (6) feet of distance between desks, and/or by staggering shifts. Limit face-to-face meetings to no more than ten workers. Promote hygiene, including frequent hand-washing and use of hand sanitizer. Recommend workers wear cloth Face Coverings; provide workers with Face Coverings; and provide information on proper use, removal, and washing of cloth Face Coverings.vA Face Covering functions to protect other people more than the wearer. Make accommodations for workers who are at high risk of severe illness from COVID-19, for example, by having high-risk workers work in positions that are not public-facing or by allowing teleworking where possible. Encourage sick workers to stay home and provide support to do so with a sick leave policy. Follow the CDC guidance if a worker has been diagnosed with COVID-19. Provide workers with education about COVID-19 prevention strategies, using methods like videos, webinars, or FAQs. Promote information on helplines for workers such as 211 and the Hope4NC Helpline.
  • On April 23, Governor extended the stay at home order until May 8. 
  • Governor issued an order, requiring all individuals currently in the State of North Carolina are ordered to stay at home except as allowed in in limited circumstances by the order. Residents are permitted to leave their home to go to and work at an essential business. Among other businesses, essential businesses include businesses that sell, manufacture, or supply office supply products or other products needed for people to work from home. Also, it includes businesses that provide professional services, such as legal services, real estate services (including brokerage, appraisal and title services) and tax preparation services. Self storage is the rental of real property. Also, businesses that that sell, manufacture, support, or supply other COVID-19 Essential Businesses and Operations with the service or materials necessary to operate are deemed essential. This also describes self storage.
  • Governor on March 23 issued an order, restricting gatherings to fifty people or fewer and also mandating closure of additional businesses such as gyms, pools, and skating rinks. Self storage is not required to close.
  • Governor issued a press release, announcing the closing of all bars and restaurants for in-restaurant dining.
  • March 14 executive order prohibits gatherings over 100 people, but excludes “normal operations at airports, bus and train stations, medical facilities, libraries, shopping malls and centers, or other places where more than one hundred (100) people are gathered. a
  • Check back here for additional updates. 
  • Buncombe County, North Carolina issued an order, directing all Buncombe County residents to “Stay Home – Stay Safe” and to limit movements outside of their homes that are not deemed essential. Residents may travel to and work at essential businesses. Among other essential businesses, businesses that provide storage services to other essential businesses are deemed essential. This includes self storage operators.
  • Cabarrus County, North Carolina has issued an order, restricting the movement of all individuals except that they may, among other reasons, leave to work at essential businesses. Businesses that sell, manufacture, or supply products needed for people to work from home are deemed essential. Additionally, businesses that sell, manufacture, or supply other Essential Businesses and Operations with the support or materials necessary to operate, including computers, audio and video electronics, household appliances; IT and telecommunication equipment; hardware, paint, flat glass; electrical, plumbing and heating material; sanitary equipment; personal hygiene products; food, food additives, ingredients and components; medical and orthopedic equipment; optics and photography equipment; diagnostics, food and beverages, chemicals, soaps and detergent; and firearm and ammunition suppliers and retailers for purposes of safety and security are deemed essential. These cover self storage operations.
  • Mecklenburg and the City of Charlotte have issued an order, requiring all individuals currently living within Mecklenburg County including the City of Charlotte are restricted to shelter at their places of residence – except for limited purposes such as traveling to and working at an essential business. Businesses that sell, manufacture, or supply other Essential Businesses and Operations with the support or materials necessary to operate are deemed essential. Additionally, businesses that sell, manufacture, or supply products needed for people to work from home are deemed essential – such as self storage.
  • Essential businesses must implement Social Distancing Requirements includes maintaining at least six-foot social distancing from other individuals, washing hands with soap and water for at least twenty seconds as frequently as possible or using hand sanitizer, covering coughs or sneezes (into the sleeve or elbow, not hands), regularly cleaning high-touch surfaces, and not shaking hands. Required measures. Essential Businesses and Operations and businesses engaged in Minimum Basic Operations must take proactive measures to ensure compliance with Social Distancing Requirements, including where possible: Designate six-foot distances. Designating with signage, tape, or by other means six­ foot spacing for employees and customers in line to maintain appropriate distance; Hand sanitizer and sanitizing products. Having hand sanitizer and sanitizing products readily available for employees and customers; Separate operating hours for vulnerable populations. Implementing separate operating hours for elderly and vulnerable customers; and Online and remote access. Posting online whether a facility is open and how best to reach the facility and continue services by phone or remotely.
  • Winston-Salem, North Carolina issued an order, instructing residents to stay at home except for limited purposes such as to go to work at an essential business.  Professional services, such as legal services, accounting services, insurance services, real estate transactions and services including, but not limited to, appraisal and title services are deemed essential. Self storage is the rental of real property and is therefore essential.

North Dakota:

  • Governor issued an order, permitting certain businesses to reopen that were previously required to close. Self storage is not impacted by the order and may remain open. 
  • Governor issued an order, declaring a state of emergency. 
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

 

Ohio:

 

  • On July 22, Governor announced that an order that mandates use of a mask. All individuals in Ohio must wear facial coverings in public at all times when at an indoor location that is not a residence or outdoors, but unable to maintain six-foot social distance from people who are not household members.

 

  • Governor issued an order, requiring all persons wear facial coverings in Butler, Cuyahoga, Franklin, Hamilton, Huron, Montgomery, and Trumbull Counties, except as set forth in this Order. This Order shall remain in full force and effect until the State of Emergency declared by the Governor no longer exists, or the Director of the Ohio Department of Health rescinds or modifies this Order.
  • On June 5, Governor announced that several businesses previously required to close may reopen. 
  • On April 30, the Ohio Department of Health issued an order, that extended the stay home order until May 31. However, it does permit businesses to start slowly reopening. Businesses must provide masks for employees and implement other social distancing and preventative measures specific to their industry sector outlined in the order. Self storage may remain open.
  • On April 27, Governor announced the Responsible Restart Ohio Plan. Beginning on May 4, office environments and manufacturing, construction, and distribution businesses are permitted to reopen. On May 12, consumer retail and service businesses are permitted to reopen. The general safe business practices that all businesses must follow as they reopen are requiring face coverings for all employees, and recommending them for clients and customers at all times; conducting daily health assessments or self-evaluations of employees to determine if they should work; maintaining good hygiene at all times such as hand washing and social distancing; cleaning and sanitizing workplaces throughout the day and at the close of business or between shifts; limiting capacity to meet social distancing guidelines. Importantly, the stay at home order will remain in place, prohibiting gatherings of more than 10 people.
  • Governor issued an order directing all citizens to stay at home. It becomes effective on April 7 through May 1 unless modified or rescinded. Citizens are permitted to leave their home to get food as well as for certain types of work. Storage facilities are listed as an essential business and may remain open. 
  • The order permits non-essential businesses to maintain Basic Minimum Operations, which is the minimum necessary activities to maintain the value of the business’s inventory, ensure security, process payroll and employee benefits, or for related functions. Also, businesses must facilitate, to the greatest extent possible, the ability of employees to work remotely.
  • The order also imposes additional requirements and restrictions. Businesses are instructed to designate with signage, tape or by other means six-foot spacing for employees and customers. Also, businesses must have hand sanitizer and sanitizing products available for employees and customers, separate operating hours for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, and online and remote access – business must post whether the facility is open and how best to reach the facility.

 

Oklahoma:

  • Governor extended the state of emergency. 
  • Governor extended the state of emergency. 
  • Governor extended the state of emergency until August 12.
  • On April 23, Governor released his Open Up and Recover Safety Plan that outlines a phased in approach to reopen businesses that were previously closed. Self storage may remain open.
  • Check back here for additional updates.

Oregon:

  • State of emergency and price gouging restrictions in effect until at least January 2, 2021.
  • State of emergency in effect until at least November 3, 2020 (likely to be extended).
  • In addition to the requirement below for indoor spaces, face coverings are required in outdoor public spaces when physical distancing is not possible, effective July 15th. The government has also provided a sign for use by businesses.
  • Governor announced a mandatory mask policy for indoor spaces, beginning July 1. The guidance applies to businesses and members of the public visiting indoor public spaces.
  • Governor issued an order, mandating that most residents stay at home. It remains in effect until terminated by the Governor.
  • It requires businesses not closed by the order, including self storage, to implement social distancing policies in order to remain open, and requires workplaces to implement teleworking and work-at-home options when possible.
  • All non-essential social and recreational gatherings of individuals are prohibited immediately, regardless of size, if a distance of at least six feet between individuals cannot be maintained. Gatherings of members of the same residential household are permitted.
  • It closes and prohibits shopping at specific categories of retail businesses, for which close personal contact is difficult to avoid, such as arcades, barber shops, hair salons, gyms and fitness studios, skating rinks, theaters, and yoga studios.
  • Governor issued an order, prohibiting gatherings of 25 people or more and prohibiting bars and restaurants from serving on premises. 
  • Oregon joined the Regional State Partnership: Western States Pact - a working group of Western state governors with a shared vision for modifying stay at home orders and fighting COVID-19.

Pennsylvania:

  • State of emergency in effect until at least November 30, 2020. 
  • On July 2, stated issued an order, requiring that masks must be worn when outdoors and unable to consistently maintain a distance of six feet from individuals who are not members of their household; in any indoor location where members of the public are generally permitted; waiting for, riding on, driving, or operating public transportation or paratransit or while in a taxi, private car service or ride-sharing vehicle; obtaining services from the healthcare sector in settings including, but not limited to, a hospital, pharmacy, medical clinic, laboratory, physician or dental office, veterinary clinic, or blood bank; or engaged in work, whether at the workplace or performing work off-site, when interacting in-person with any member of the public, working in any space visited by members of the public, working in any space where food is prepared or packaged for sale or distribution to others, working in or walking through common areas, or in any room or enclosed area where other people, except for members of the person’s own household or residence, are present when unable to physically distance.
  • On June 5, Governor announced that all 67 Pennsylvania counties are either in the yellow or green phase of reopening and Governor Tom Wolf announced that 12 additional counties will move to green on June 12. Those counties include Adams, Beaver, Carbon, Columbia, Cumberland, Juniata, Mifflin, Northumberland, Union, Wayne, Wyoming and York. The final 10 counties that moved out of red and into yellow today include Berks, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lackawanna, Lancaster, Lehigh, Northampton, Montgomery and Philadelphia. There are 33 counties currently in yellow and 34 in green. Gov. Wolf’s Process to Reopen Pennsylvania outlines any remaining restrictions for counties. As of June 5, these 33 counties are in the yellow phase: Adams, Beaver, Berks, Bucks, Carbon, Chester, Columbia, Cumberland, Dauphin, Delaware, Erie, Franklin, Huntingdon, Juniata, Lackawanna, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh, Luzerne, Mifflin, Monroe, Montgomery, Northampton, Northum.
  • On May 29, Governor announced that  that 16 additional counties will take another step forward and move to green effective June 5. Counties include Allegheny, Armstrong, Bedford, Blair, Butler, Cambria, Clinton, Fayette, Fulton, Greene, Indiana, Lycoming, Mercer, Somerset, Washington, and Westmoreland. The first 18 counties moved to green today, including Bradford, Cameron, Centre, Clarion, Clearfield, Crawford, Elk, Forest, Jefferson, Lawrence, McKean, Montour, Potter, Snyder, Sullivan, Tioga, Venango and Warren. Eight counties moved to yellow today, including Dauphin, Franklin, Huntingdon, Lebanon, Luzerne, Monroe, Pike, and Schuylkill. Counties that remain in red and are expected to move to yellow by June 5 include Berks, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lackawanna, Lancaster, Lehigh, Northampton, Montgomery, and Philadelphia.
  • It extended the orders for all counties in red and signed new orders for the 24 counties moving to yellow on May 8. The extended stay-at-home order remains the same as the original statewide stay-at-home order announced on April 1, which was set to expire and is now extended to June 4. The yellow phase order provides guidance for those counties entering the yellow phase of reopening tomorrow. The yellow phase order applies to these 24 counties: Bradford, Cameron, Centre, Clarion, Clearfield, Clinton, Crawford, Elk, Erie, Forest, Jefferson, Lawrence, Lycoming, McKean, Mercer, Montour, Northumberland, Potter, Snyder, Sullivan, Tioga, Union, Venango, and Warren. The yellow phase order also addresses the limited reopening of businesses in the yellow phase, detailing those businesses previously deemed non-life-sustaining as being permitted to reopen if they follow the guidance for safety for staff, customers, and facility. The guidance for businesses can be found here.
  • On April 23, Governor announced a phased-in approach to reopen the state. Self storage may remain open subject to the face covering requirements.  

Rhode Island:

  • Governor issued an order that imposes restrictions on gathering sizes, among other limitations and restrictions. 
  • Governor extended state of emergency until October 3, 2020.
  • Governor extended the face covering order until September 2, 2020. 
  • Governor issued an order, which extended the state of emergency and the mandate to wear a mask until at least August 2. 
  • On May 7, the Governor announced that the stay home order would be lifted on May 9. Self storage is permitted to remain open but must comply and implement several new measures outlined in detail here
  • On April 14, Governor issued an order, requiring all employees of customer/client-facing businesses and nonprofit organizations, office-based businesses and non-profit organizations, and any other such business categories that are still in operation to wear cloth face coverings unless an employee can easily, continuously, and measurably maintain at least six (6) feet of distance from other employees for the duration of his or her work (e.g., solo office) or unless doing so would damage the employee's health. All such employees must wear face coverings in any entry, exit and common areas of the business, including, but not limited to: check-in, registration, reception, hallways, bathrooms, breakrooms, time clock areas, elevators, stairways, etc.
  • All such businesses must provide, at their expense, face coverings or materials for the making of such face coverings for their employees. Such coverings or materials may be made available staff-wide or individually upon employee request so long as the result is organization-wide use of face coverings. Nothing shall prevent an employee from fashioning his or her own cloth face mask.
  • On April 10, Governor issued an order, extending several previously-issued executive orders until May 8, 2020.
  • Governor issued an order on March 28, closing certain nonessential retail businesses. Self storage is not a retail business and is not affected. 
  • Governor issued an order, directing that no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, March 23, 2020, all public recreation and entertainment establishments shall cease in-person operations. Public recreation and entertainment establishments subject to this Order include, but are not limited to, theaters, cinemas, sporting events, bowling alleys, concert venues, museums, and zoos. No later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, March 23, 2020, all close-contact businesses (businesses which cannot maintain social distancing with their customers as outlined in paragraph 3 below) including, but not limited to, gymnasiums, fitness centers and similar exercise facilities, hair salons and barbershops, nail salons, spas and tattoo parlors shall cease in-person operations.
  • Subject to the closures and limitations provided in prior orders and in paragraph 4 below, all businesses remaining open, must, to the extent practicable, implement CDC guidance to ensure social distancing, including: maintaining a minimum distance of 6 feet between persons; ensuring employees practice appropriate hygiene measures, including regular, thorough handwashing; ensuring that employees who are sick remain home; and regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces. All business service personnel that can work from home are required to do so.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

South Carolina:

  • Governor extended the state of emergency. 
  • On May 28, Governor extended the state of emergency until June 15. 
  • On May 3, Governor announced that the stay at home order was lifted and replaced with another order, requesting but not requiring individuals to stay home except for certain limited reasons. Self storage is not impacted by this order and may remain open. 
  • On April 27, Governor announced that he would extend the state of emergency for an additional 15 days. 
  • On April 20, Governor issued an order, beginning the process of reopening businesses that were instructed to shut down by prior orders. Retail businesses are permitted to open subject to occupancy limitations of no more than 20% the limit as determined by the fire marshal and must implement other social distancing and sanitation measures. Self storage operations are not impacted by the order.
  • On April 7, Governor issued a Work or Home order, ordering and directing that effective Tuesday, April 7, 2020, at 5:00 p.m., all residents and visitors of the State of South Carolina are required to limit social interaction, practice “social distancing” in accordance with CDC guidance, and take every possible precaution to avoid potential exposure to, and to slow the spread of, COVID-19, and shall limit their movements outside of their home, except as allowed by this Order, for purposes of engaging in Essential Business, Essential Activities, or Critical Infrastructure Operations.
  • The order deems the following as essential businesses: service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation or residences, businesses and buildings; commercial real estate services; last-mile delivery; workers who support the supply chain of building materials; employees who provide services that enable repair materials and equipment for essential functions; and, employees of firms providing services that enable operations, including storing products for whole or retail sale or use. These all describe self storage operations. Therefore, the Governor’s order deems self storage as an essential business and operators may remain open while the order is in effect.
  • Governor issued an order, authorizing the police to break up groups of three (3) or more individuals. However, the order does not apply to private businesses.  
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

South Dakota:

  • On May 26, Governor extended the state of emergency until December 30, 2020. 
  • On April 6, governor issued an order encouraging businesses to modify practices or scale down operations. The order urges South Dakota businesses to maximize telework and implement social distancing, and strongly encourages enclosed retail establishments to modify or suspend business. Though the order makes no formal requirements of businesses, it references the federal CISA guidance as the guidelines for essential businesses that should not be limited by the order.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

Tennessee:

  • Governor issued an order, granting authority to local mayors to issue orders either requiring or recommending use of masks. 
  • Governor extended the state of emergency until August 29, 2020. 
  • On May 12, Governor signed Executive Order Nos. 36 and 37, extending the state of emergency declaration from May 18, 2020 to June 30, 2020, in order to extend certain provisions facilitating the State’s continued response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • On May 7, Governor issued an order, permitting certain businesses that were previously closed to reopen and also requiring certain businesses to remain closed. Self storage is not impacted by the order and may remain open. 
  • On April 28, Governor issued an order permitting most businesses to reopen subject to certain social distancing and other preventative measures. Self storage may remain open subject to the conditions outlined below.
  • In accordance with CDC guidance, persons, including employees or customers of businesses, are strongly urged to wear cloth face coverings or other similar coverings in public settings where being in close proximity to others is anticipated, and particularly where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain at all times.
  • All employers and businesses are strongly urged to take steps to the greatest extent practicable to equip, encourage, allow, or require and permit employees to work remotely or via telework from home, and employees and their customers should practice good hygiene and observe the Health Guidelines to reduce the spread of COVID-19 to the greatest extent practicable. All employers and businesses are expected to operate in accordance with, and to fulfill the spirit of, applicable operational guidance and measures adopted and/or issued by the Governor's Economic Recovery Group (ERG). Generally applicable guidelines and industry-specific guidelines for certain industries have been and will continue to be released by the ERG. If an employer, business, or industry does not operate in a safe manner, or if health outcomes demonstrate that a particular business or industry sector is unable to be operated in a sufficiently safe manner, the Governor and/or other applicable state official(s) may issue additional health and safety orders as may be appropriate under the circumstances.
  • The April 28 order requires certain businesses, such as barber shops, to remain closed.
  • Check back here for additional updates.

Texas:

  • Governor issued an order that imposes occupancy limitations. 
  • Governor extended the state of emergency. 
  • On July 2, Governor issued an order, requiring all Texans to wear a face covering over the nose and mouth in public spaces in counties with 20 or more positive COVID-19 cases, with few exceptions. TDEM shall maintain on its website a list of counties that are not subject to this face-covering requirement pursuant to paragraph number 11. The list can be found at: www.tdem.texas.gov/ga29.
  • On June 3, Governor announced that the state would move to Phase 3 of the plan to reopen. 
  • On June 3, Texas Health Services released revised minimum recommended health protocols for employers. Storage operators should review those protocols and strongly consider implementing them.
  • On May 18, Governor announced Phase 2 of the plan to reopen the state. It permits certain businesses to reopen that were previously required to close. Self storage is not impacted.
  • On May 12, Governor extended  the state of emergency.  
  • On May 6, Governor issued an order, permitting additional businesses that were previously closed to reopen. Self storage is not impacted by the order and may remain open. 
  • On April 27, Governor issued an order, reopening certain businesses that were previously instructed to close. Self storage is permitted to remain open.  
  • The April 27 order also supersedes any conflicting order issued by local officials in response to the COVID-19 disaster, but only to the extent that such a local order restricts essential services or reopened services allowed by this executive order, allows gatherings prohibited by this executive order, or expands the list of essential services or the list or scope of reopened services as set forth in this executive order.
  • On April 27, Governor announced that the stay at home order will expire on April 30.
  • On April 17, Governor issued an order that established the  “Strike Force to Reopen Texas.” It states that the Governor’s “expectation that it [the stay at home order] will not be extended in its current form” and the strike force must present recommendations on how to reopen the state by May 1.
  • Governor issued an order that every person in Texas shall, except where necessary to provide or obtain essential services, minimize social gatherings and minimize in-person contact with people who are not in the same household. Residents may travel to and work at essential services or businesses.
  • Specifically, the order includes as essential workers and businesses in the following categories, all of which describe self storage: (1) service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation or residences, businesses and buildings; (2) commercial real estate services; (3) last-mile delivery; (4) workers who support the supply chain of building materials; (5) employees who provide services that enable repair materials and equipment for essential functions; and (6) employees of firms providing services that enable operations, including storing products for whole or retail sale or use.
  • In providing or obtaining essential services, people and businesses should follow the Guidelines from the President and the CDC by practicing good hygiene, environmental cleanliness, and sanitation, implementing social distancing, and working from home if possible.  In particular, all services should be provided through remote telework from home unless they are essential services that cannot be provided through remote telework.
  • The executive order shall supersede any conflicting order issued by local officials in response to the COVID-19 disaster, but only to the extent that such a local order restricts essential services allowed by this executive order or allows gatherings prohibited by this executive order.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 
  • On April 13, Austin, Texas issued an order, requiring all residents to stay home except for limited permissible reasons, including traveling to and working at essential businesses.  The order includes as essential workers and businesses in the following categories, all of which describe self storage: (1) service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation or residences, businesses and buildings; (2) commercial real estate services; (3) last-mile delivery; (4) workers who support the supply chain of building materials; (5) employees who provide services that enable repair materials and equipment for essential functions; and (6) employees of firms providing services that enable operations, including storing products for whole or retail sale or use. The order allows self storage facilities to remain open.
  • Essential businesses must also implement face covering requirements: Because an infected person can transmit the COVID19 virus to others before showing any symptoms, the covering of a person's nose and mouth necessary to help slow the spread of the virus When leaving one's residence, all persons over the age of ten (10) shall wear some form of covering over their nose and mouth, such as a homemade mask, scarf, bandana, handkerchief, except when Alone ma separate single space, whether indoor or outdoor, In the presence only of other members of one's household or residence whether inside or outside the residence, When doing so poses a greater mental or physical health, safety or security mask, When engaged in Outdoor Activity, or for consumption purposes.
  • Essential businesses must also enact social distancing requirements. All persons shall piact1ce Social Distancing except when m the presence of only members of one's own household or residence, or when otherwise exempted by this Order Parents and Guardians of children under the age of ten (10) shall be responsible for maintaining social distance between child members of there household and others' households For purposes of this Order, and as outlined from the CDC and Austin/Travis County Health Authority, Social Requirements include maintaining at least a six-foot distance from other md1v1duals, washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds as frequently as possible or using hand sanitizer with at least 600/o alcohol, covering coughs or sneeze, regularly cleaning high-touch surfaces, and not shaking hands.
  • Austin, Texas issued an order, directing residents to stay at home. Residents are permitted to travel to and work at essential businesses, which include those entities that provide supplies to work from home and those businesses that provide supplies for essential businesses, critical infrastructure, and essential government functions.
  • Bexar County, Texas issued an order, requiring commercial entities in Bexar County providing goods or services directly the public must develop and implement a health and safety policy ("Health and Safety Policy"). The Health and Safety Policy must require, at a minimum, that all face coverings when in an area or performing an activity which will necessarily involve close contact or proximity to co-workers or the public where six feet of separation is not feasible.
  • Dallas County, Texas issued an order, requiring commercial entities in Bexar County providing goods or services directly the public must develop and implement a health and safety policy ("Health and Safety Policy"). The Health and Safety Policy must require, at a minimum, that all face coverings when in an area or performing an activity which will necessarily involve close contact or proximity to co-workers or the public where six feet of separation is not feasible.
  • On March 22, Dallas County, Texas issued an Order, requiring all residents to shelter in place. Residents are permitted to the leave their home to obtain food or to perform work at an essential business. Essential business is defined by the CISA’s list, which includes self storage. Additionally, businesses that storage for essential businesses are deemed essential. Essential Businesses shall comply with the Social Distancing Guidelines, including maintaining six foot social distancing for both employees and the general public. Suspend nonessential employee travel. Ensure employees practice social distancing and do not work within six feet of one another. Urge essential employees to stay home when they are sick and maximize flexibility in sick leave benefits. Do not require a doctor’s note for employees who are sick. Maximize telecommuting options. Persons who need to be at work to provide essential services of great benefit to the community must take steps in their workplace to minimize risk.
  • Dallas County, Texas imposed new requirements that individuals who work in essential businesses to wear face masks “to the greatest extent possible” when performing work. Individuals who are patronizing essential businesses or riding mass transit are also required to cover their face, and essential businesses are permitted to turn away patrons who are not wearing face coverings.
  • Ft. Worth, Texas has issued an order, closing bars, lounges, taverns, commercial amusement and entertainment establishments, bingo halls, theaters, gyms, fitness classes, yoga and personal training facilities, similar facilities and classes, private clubs, tattoo and piercing parlors and tanning salons, residential meeting spaces, event centers, hotel meeting spaces and ballrooms, outdoor plazas and markets. It also forbids gatherings of 10 or more individuals.
  • Harris County, Texas officials indicated that an order requiring residents to wear a mask is forthcoming.
  • Harris County, Texas issued an order, requiring all individuals currently living within Harris County to stay at their place of residence except for Essential Activities. All persons may leave their Residences only for Essential Activities, or to provide or perform Essential Governmental Functions, or to operate Essential Businesses. Businesses that provide storage for essential businesses are deemed essential. Further, professional services, such as “real estate services” when necessary to assist in compliance with legally mandated activities or to further Essential Businesses, Essential Government functions, or Critical Infrastructure. Self storage is the rental of real estate and is permitted to remain open.
  • In Harris County, Texas these infection control precautions apply to all Essential Businesses: (1) practice social distancing by requiring patrons, visitors, and employees to be separated by six (6) feet, to the extent feasible; (2) provide access to hand washing facilities with soap and water or hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol; (3) post a sign in a conspicuous place at the public entrance to the venue instructing members of the public not to enter if they are experiencing symptoms of respiratory illness, including fever or cough; and (4) adhere to other general communicable disease control recommendations by public health authorities.
  • Hayes County, Texas issued an order, requiring all commercial entities in Hays County providing goods or services directly the public must develop and implement a health and safety policy (“Health and Safety Policy”). The policy must require, at a minimum, that all employees or visitors to the commercial entity’s business premises or other facilities wear face coverings when in an area or performing an activity which will necessarily involve close contact or proximity to co-workers or the public where six feet of separation is not feasible.
  • Lubbock, Texas issued an order, closing specifically several businesses including hair salons, and shopping malls.  The order also outlines several essential businesses that are permitted to remain open. Further, the order states any business which is permitted to remain open and which does not specifically meet one of the categories described above is hereby required to adhere to federal and CDC guidelines, including affirmative steps to ensure that social distancing of 6 feet is maintained, including for anyone waiting to enter the premises, and at no time are more than ten persons permitted to be inside the premises, inclusive of employees and customers. This appears to cover self storage operations.
  • San Antonio and Bexar County, Texas issued a stay at home order, requiring all residents to stay at home except for limited activities such as to obtain food or go to work at certain essential businesses. The order permits residents to work at exempted businesses, which include those (such as self storage) in this CISA document. Only businesses and organizations that are providing these necessary products or services to the public during this public health crisis will be allowed to continue to operate. All other businesses shall close but may allow employees to work from home.
  • Tarrant County, Texas has issued an order, limiting the size of gatherings to no more than 10 people and mandates the cancellation of all such gatherings of more than 10 people until further notice. However, it does not prohibit gatherings of people in multiple, separate enclosed spaces (including separate cubicles or storage units) in a single building such as different floors of a multi-level office so long as not more than 10 people are present in any single space at the same time. This Declaration also does not prohibit the use of enclosed spaces where more than 10 people may be present at different times during the day, so long as more than 10 people are not present in the space at the same time. The order also expressly mandates that closure of several businesses like theatres, gyms, and bars, but does not require closure of self storage facilities.
  • Travis County, Texas issued a Stay Home, Stay Safe order, requiring all residents to stay home except for limited permissible reasons, including traveling to and working at essential businesses.  The order includes as essential workers and businesses in the following categories, all of which describe self storage: (1) service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation or residences, businesses and buildings; (2) commercial real estate services; (3) last-mile delivery; (4) workers who support the supply chain of building materials; (5) employees who provide services that enable repair materials and equipment for essential functions; and (6) employees of firms providing services that enable operations, including storing products for whole or retail sale or use. The order allows self storage facilities to remain open.
  • Essential businesses must implement face covering requirements: Because an infected person can transmit the COVID19 virus to others before showing any symptoms, the covering of a person's nose and mouth necessary to help slow the spread of the virus When leaving one's residence, all persons over the age of ten (10) shall wear some form of covering over their nose and mouth, such as a homemade mask, scarf, bandana, handkerchief, except when Alone ma separate single space, whether indoor or outdoor, In the presence only of other members of one's household or residence whether inside or outside the residence, When doing so poses a greater mental or physical health, safety or security mask, When engaged in Outdoor Activity, or for consumption purposes.
  • Essential businesses must also implement social distancing requirements. All persons shall practice Social Distancing except when m the presence of only members of one's own household or residence, or when otherwise exempted by this Order Parents and Guardians of children under the age of ten (10) shall be responsible for maintaining social distance between child members of their household and others’ households For purposes of this Order, and as outlined from the CDC and Austin/Travis County Health Authority, Social Distancing Requirements include maintaining at least a six-foot distance from other individuals, washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds as frequently as possible or using hand sanitizer with at least 600/o alcohol, covering coughs or sneeze, regularly cleaning high-touch surfaces, and not shaking hands.

Utah:

 

  • Utah Governor Gary Herbert issued an order that requires businesses, including storage facilities, to mandate usage of masks by employees and patrons while on site as well as to implement additional preventive measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. More specifically, storage owners and operators must: require each employee and contractor to wear a face mask while at work; require each patron that enters the premises of the business to wear a face mask, including in an area of ingress or egress; require at least six feet of physical distance, including in an area of ingress or egress, between each separate household group at a business. Further, each business must: post conspicuous signage at each entrance to the business that lists COVID-19 symptoms; ask employees and customers experiencing COVID-19 symptoms to stay home; and provide notice of face mask and physical distancing requirements. The order is in effect from November 9, 2020 until November 23, 2020, unless otherwise extended, modified, or rescinded.
  • Governor extended the state of emergency.
  • On April 29, Governor issued an order that places the state under “moderate risk” protocols.
  • Under “moderate risk,” Utahns are still encouraged to stay home as much as possible, but may see small groups of family and friends who have been following recommendations on distancing and hygiene. Some establishments that have been closed by public health orders, including gyms, salons, and other personal care establishments, are permitted to resume operations under very strict guidelines. Dine-in options are once again permitted, where eating establishments exercise extreme precautions detailed in the plan
  • Governor has issued an order, closing restaurants and bars. The order also limits gatherings to groups of 10 or fewer.
  • Check back here for additional updates.  

Vermont:

  • Governor extended state of emergency until November 15, 2020. 
  • On June 15, Governor issued an order, encouraging all residents to stay home as much as possible and to wear a mask whenever in public. 
  • Governor extended the state of emergency until July 15. It encourages businesses to implement a number of measures but they are not required to do so.
  • On May 15, Governor extended the “stay home, stay safe” and the state of emergency until June 15. 
  • Governor issued an order to “stay home, stay safe”. The Governor issued a subsequent order extending the “stay home, stay safe” requirements until May 15. Citizens are directed to stay at home except for certain limited activities such as obtaining food or going to work at certain essential businesses. Essential businesses include other building and property services for the safety, sanitation and operations of residences or other businesses – such as self storage.
  • All businesses, governmental entities and not-for-profit entities shall develop strategies, procedures and practices designed for strict adherence to CDC and VDH guidance to ensure recommended social distancing, including, to the extent possible: maintaining a distance of 6 feet between persons; requiring employees to practice appropriate hygiene measures, including regular, thorough handwashing; requiring employees who are sick remain home; and regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces.
  • Check back here for additional updates.

 

Virginia:

  • Governor issued an order, requiring continued use of masks as well as other requirements for businesses. 
  • Virginia Occupational Safety and Health Program has issued a temporary, emergency standard for infectious disease prevention for COVID 19. Click here [please link] to read a memorandum that outlines the requirements of the new standard. 
  • Governor announced that the state would enter Phase 3 of the reopening plan, commencing on July 1.
  • Governor announced that the northern VA regions outlined below and Richmond would join the rest of state in Stage 2 on June 12.
  • Governor announced that parts of the state would enter Stage 2 of reopening, starting on  June 5. However, it does not include the counties of Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William, and the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas, Manassas Park, Richmond as well as the Towns of Dumfries, Herndon, Leesburg, and Vienna. Those areas will remain in Stage 1.
  • On May 28, Governor issued an order, permitting certain businesses to reopen that were previously required to close.  It also includes a best practices guide for all businesses to follow and implement.
  • On May 26, Governor issued an order that requires all employees of essential retail businesses to wear a face covering whenever working in customer facing areas.
  • On May 12, Governor issued an order, delaying the planned, partial reopening of the Northern Virginia region of the state, including the counties of Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William, and the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas, Manassas Park, as well as the Towns of Dumfries, Herndon, Leesburg, and Vienna. The order requires certain businesses, such as gyms and bars, to remain closed there. Northern Virginia will now not enter “Phase I” of reopening until May 28.
  • Businesses that may remain open, including self storage, are required to utilize teleworking as much as possible. Where telework is not feasible, such business must adhere to physical distancing recommendations, enhanced sanitizing practices on common surfaces, and apply the relevant workplace guidance from state and federal authorities.
  • All public and private in-person gatherings of more than 10 individuals are prohibited. Guidelines for all business sectors can be viewed here
  • The rest of the state will start the phased reopening, starting on May 15.
  • Governor issued an order on March 30, instructing all Virginians to stay at home. Residents are to remain at home except for limited, permissible reasons, including traveling to work at certain businesses, including self storage.
  • Any retail establishment that is not instructed to close is required to limit in-person interaction to no more than 10 patrons per establishment. Professional service operations are instructed to permit teleworking operations to the extent feasible.
  • Governor has issued an order, requiring closure of all public access to recreational and entertainment businesses as well as nonessential retail businesses. Self storage is not a retail business and is not required to close.
  • The order mandates closure of all dining and congregation areas in restaurants, dining establishments, food courts, breweries, microbreweries, distilleries, wineries, tasting rooms, and farmers markets. Take out is permissible though.
  • All businesses shall, to the extent possible, adhere to social distancing recommendations, enhanced sanitizing practices on common surfaces, and other appropriate workplace guidance from state and federal authorities while in operation. Although business operations offering professional rather than retail services may remain open, they should utilize teleworking as much as possible. Where telework is not feasible, such business must adhere to social distancing recommendations, enhanced sanitizing practices on common surfaces, and apply the relevant workplace guidance from state and federal authorities.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

Washington:

  • Governor issued order, requiring that citizens wear masks. More specifically, it imposes a requirement for employers to provide appropriate face coverings or masks to all employees who don’t work alone. A Department of Health statewide order directing all individuals to wear a face covering in any indoor public setting or when outdoors and unable to maintain 6 feet of physical distance from others. (effective June 26). A governor’s order directing businesses to require and enforce the use of face coverings by all customers or visitors. (The order will be effective July 7 - guidance for businesses is here).
  • On June 1, Governor issued an order that proclaims that a State of Emergency continues to exist in all counties of Washington State, to extend all of the prohibitions and each expiration date therein to. on July 1, 2020, and are renamed (Safe Start – Stay Healthy), and that except as otherwise provided in this order or the Safe Start Washington Phased Reopening County-by-County Plan found here
  • The Governor also  ordered that, beginning on June 1, 2020, the Safe Start Washington Phased Reopening Plan will be applied on a county-by-county basis, and will allow any county that has been in Phase 1 or 2 for three weeks to apply to the Secretary of Health to move in whole or in part to the next phase; and further, the application process will include target metrics (intended to be applied as “targets” and not hard-line measures) set by the Secretary of Health, and the application must be submitted by the County Executive, or, in the absence of a County Executive, with the approval of the County Council or Commission, in accordance with the instructions provided by the Secretary of Health
  • In addition to other requirements detailed in the Safe Start Washington Phased Reopening Plan, that, beginning on June 8, 2020, when on the job, all employees must wear a facial covering except when working alone or when the job has no in-person interaction as detailed in the Safe Start Washington Phased Reopening Plan; and, further, that employers must provide cloth facial coverings to employees, unless their exposure dictates a higher level of protection.
  • On May 1, the Governor announced that the stay home order would remain in effect until at least May 31.
  • Governor issued an order on March 23, directing all residents to immediately cease leaving their home or place of residence except: (1) to conduct or participate in essential activities, and/or (2) for employment in essential business services. A list of essential businesses can be viewed here. The list includes employees of firms providing services that enable logistics operations, including cooling, storing, packaging, and distributing products for wholesale or retail sale or use. This covers self storage. This email confirms that self storage is an essential business and may remain open subject to certain social distancing and sanitation requirements.
  • In addition, nonessential businesses are permitted to maintain basic minimum operations. For purposes of the order, minimum basic operations are the minimum activities necessary to maintain the value of the business’ inventory, preserve the condition of the business’ physical plant and equipment, ensure security, process payroll and employee benefits, facilitate employees of the business being able to continue to work remotely from their residences, and related functions.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

West Virginia:

  • On July 6, Governor issued an order that requires that all citizens (with few exceptions) are required to wear face coverings when in a confined, indoor space (other than their home). 
  • On April 27, Governor issued West Virginia’s plan for partial reopening, including stages for relaxed restrictions on different business types and sizes. Self storage may remain open.
  • Governor issued an order, directing all residents to remain at home unless performing an essential activity such as obtaining food or going to work at an essential business. Storage facilities are listed as an essential business. An essential business also includes those entities that supply other essential businesses and those that supply products needed for individuals to work from home. This covers self storage.
  • The order also forbids gatherings of 10 or more and requires that businesses practice social distancing.
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

Wisconsin:

  • Governor issued an order, encouraging all residents to stay at home as much as possible.  All businesses are strongly encouraged to take the following measures to limit exposure to COVID-19 to staff, customers, and the public: require masks, limit the number of people on the premises to no more than is strictly necessary to perform the business operation. Even if staff are physically present at the business premises, use online or phone meeting to avoid staff congregating in offices, conference rooms, or shared spaces. To the greatest extent possible, comply with social distancing of 6 feet between all individuals on the premises, including but not limited to employees, customers, and members of the public. Businesses may have to rearrange office space, workspace, or the flow of business in order to provide for social distancing. To the extent possible, increase airflow in work areas and conduct in-person meetings outside or in large open spaces. Adopt policies to prevent staff from entering the premises or worksite if they display respiratory symptoms or have had contact with a person with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID19. Employers may not penalize staff for isolating or quarantining because of symptoms or exposure to COVID-19. Increase standards of facility cleaning and disinfection of all areas. This should include an emphasis on high-touch areas such as door handles, railings, restrooms, buttons, touch screens, office equipment, tools, shared vehicles, payment devices or cash registers, and counters. Businesses must adopt protocols to clean and disinfect the premises in the event of a positive COVID-19 case in the workplace. Post signage in languages understood by your employees and customers reminding staff and customers of safe business practices, social distancing requirements, hand hygiene, and cough/ sneeze etiquette. Where possible, offer curbside pick-up, curbside drop-off, delivery of goods and services. Where possible, offer online or phone payments, appointments, and reservations. Cease door-to-door solicitation. Review and adopt measures in the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation guidelines on safe business practices.
  • Governor issued an order on occupancy limitations. 
  • On May 13, the Wisconsin Supreme Court struck down the state’s stay at home order. 
  • Check back here for additional updates. 

Wyoming:

  • Governor issued an order, limiting gatherings to ten or fewer individuals.
  • Governor issued an order, closing certain types of businesses such as bars, restaurants, and gyms. The order does not appear to cover self storage. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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