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St Paul (KROC AM News) - Just in time for the Valentine’s Day weekend - Minnesota restaurants can increase their capacity, beginning Saturday.

Gov. Tim Walz Friday announced a loosening of the Covid-related restrictions placed on bars and restaurants last year.

Bars and restaurants will be allowed to increase the number of indoor customers to 250 or no more than 50-percent capacity and they can remain open until 11 pm. Under the current order, capacity has been limited to 125 people and the businesses had to close at 10 pm.

The new restrictions begin at noon Saturday.

Social distancing of 6 feet must still be maintained and party/table size must be limited to no more than six people. Patrons are required to wear masks indoors, except when eating or drinking and must be seated in all areas, except for limited, separated activities.

Other changes:

  • Private parties, events, receptions, or other gatherings in private, separate space (ballroom or other private room) are allowed up to 50 people (increased from two households indoors, max. 10; and three households outdoors, max. 15), subject to the requirements in the guidance for safe celebrations.
  • Capacity for these private events is further limited to 25%, and these events must be separated from all other dining areas if the facility hosts a private party and also serves members of the public. Occupants of a private event count towards overall maximum capacity caps.

Read the entire order here.

 

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