Washoe County bars given green light to reopen with tight restrictions

RENO, Nev. (News 4 & Fox 11) — The Nevada COVID-19 Task Force voted Thursday to allow Washoe County bars to reopen with strict guidelines.

Bars, taverns, wineries, distilleries and other establishments will be able to open no later than 11:59 p.m. on September 16. According to a health district spokesman, county officials could move to allow bars to reopen sooner.

The approval came after around 30 local bar owners came together to form the Washoe County Bar/Taproom Coalition and agreed to a set of operating standards.

Employees will be screened for coronavirus before work and required to wear masks at all times. Bars will be at 50% maximum capacity with 6 feet of social distancing between tables.

Customers will not be allowed inside bars without a fave covering. The agreement includes dozens of other health and safety measures aimed at limiting coronavirus spread.

One week ago, several local bar owners were lefter frustrated after Washoe County officials did not push to reopen bars.

Health officials clarified over the weekend they didn't ask to reopen bars during last week's meeting because task members informed them that reopenings were 'highly unlikely to be approved.'

Governor Steve Sisolak ordered to close bars in six Nevada counties, including Washoe County back on July 11.

READ the full operating standards for Washoe County bars: