Outdoor Recreation Sector (including Mini-golf) Added to Business Reopening

Let the mini-golf begin.

As I noted in an earlier post, Executive Order 7PP allows for outdoor recreation businesses to reopen subject to rules that were to be promulgated by the DECD.

Those rules have now been released and overall, they’re pretty consistent with the rules we’ve seen for offices, outdoor museums/zoos, and outdoor dining at restaurants.

You can download the rules here.

Importantly, the DECD has finally defined what is “outdoor recreation”.  It includes, for example, 1 on 1 training outside, so long as social distancing is maintained.  (Classes are not yet allowed.)

Beyond that, here’s the list of other outdoor recreational businesses that are allowed to reopen on May 20th:

• Equestrian (subject to Dept. of Agriculture guidance)


• Mountain Biking


• Camping


• Boat Tours (subject to 5 passengers)


• Charter Fishing (subject to 5 passengers)


• Sport Fishing


• Go Kart Racing (bring your own, no rentals)


• Golf


• Driving Ranges


• Tennis


• 1:1 Training, outdoors maintain 6 feet


• Race Tracks (practice only, no spectators)


• Campgrounds (subject to DPH guidance)


• Outdoor Shooting Range


• Kayaking


• Dirt Biking (practice only)


• Mini Golf

As spring has finally blossomed here in state, this is welcome news.

First off  – a caveat: These rules are in addition to any industry guidelines that are also in play. For golf courses, for example, the rules provided by the CSGA should continue to be followed.  Golf courses have been operating for a few months now with rules such as “No touching the flagsticks”; don’t expect those to change anytime soon.

What are some of the other applicable rules?

• The maximum gathering size is still limited to 5 people


• Clear signage must be used to reinforce new policies


• Social distancing markers must be used


• Touchless appliances installed


• Employees should not use shared equipment or, if they must, it needs to be cleaned after each use


• All employees and customers must wear a mask or other face covering at all times


• Training must be instituted


• Cleaning and disinfection protocols must also be followed

Employers in these areas should review the sector rules in detail.  And as with other business reopenings, employers are required to self-certify that they are following these rules prior to reopening.

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