Business and Restaurant Requirements During COVID-19
The Department of Finance and Administrative Services (FAS) has issued a permanent Director’s Rule reinforcing public health measures that have been in effect since mid-July and require businesses to follow state-mandated business requirements, including use of protective face coverings, social distancing and adhering to capacity limits.
FAS initially issued a temporary measure in July following a dramatic increase in COVID-19 cases. The measure was developed in partnership with King County and created through use of an Emergency Director’s Rule. Under Seattle Municipal Code, the Director of FAS is authorized to adopt, publish and enforce all rules necessary to implement, interpret, administer and enforce city code for the purpose of licensing and regulating businesses.
As COVID-19 cases continue to increase throughout the state, the department sought to make the rule a permanent rule and sought public feedback over a two-week period. Responses to public comments have been compiled and are available here. Responses to public comments have been compiled and are available in English, Amharic, Arabic, Korean, Somali, Spanish, Vietnamese, Simplified Chinese and Traditional Chinese.