Governor’s Office Daily COVID-19 Q & A
May 12, 2020
Restore Illinois
Q: Is the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) preparing guidelines for when
restaurants and bars can safely re-open (i.e. distancing requirements between tables,
disposable menus, types of table settings, PPE requirements) so restaurants can start ordering
supplies and making adjustments to their establishments?
A: Every region of the state is currently in Phase 2. According to the Restore Illinois plan, IDPH
will issue guidance when restaurants are permitted to reopen in Phase 4. For restaurants who
wish to engage in delivery, pickup, and drive through only as permitted in Phases 1 through 3,
IDPH has posted guidance https://www.dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/diseases-and-conditions/diseases-a-z-list/coronavirus/business-guidance/food-establishments. IDPH has also posted the National Restaurant Association’s
guidance https://www.dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/diseases-and-conditions/diseases-a-z-list/coronavirus/business-guidance/food-establishments. Please continue to check the IDPH website to determine which phase your region is
in https://www.dph.illinois.gov/restore.
Q: What about gatherings in large rooms, such as a church sanctuary that fits 200 people. Could
they have more than 10 people if they are socially distanced? If so, what guidance does the
IDPH offer?
A: No. According to the Restore Illinois plan, gatherings of over 10 people will not be allowed
until Phase 4. In Phase 4, gatherings of 50 people or fewer are allowed with this limit subject to
change based on latest data and public health guidance. Please continue to check the
IDPH website to determine which phase your region is in https://www.dph.illinois.gov/restore.
Q: What about gatherings outside? Could an organization have more than 10 people if they are
socially distanced? If so, what guidance does IDPH offer?
A: Every region of the state is currently in Phase 2. During Phase 2 non-essential gatherings are
not permitted. However, Illinoisans are permitted to enjoy additional outdoor activities like
golf, boating and fishing while practicing social distancing while wearing a face covering. Visit
the IDPH FAQ website for more guidance on outdoor activities https://www.dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/diseases-and-conditions/diseases-a-z-list/coronavirus/faq. Please continue to check the
IDPH website to determine which phase your region is in https://www.dph.illinois.gov/restore.