In light of new information regarding the presence of community spread of COVID – 19 in North Carolina, the Moore County Health Department will enforce the more stringent Order of Abatement of Imminent Hazard issued by the Secretary of the NC Department of Health and Human Services, which states that “seating areas of restaurants and bars constitute an imminent hazard for the spread of COVID – 19. ” Restaurants shall close all seating areas immediately and bars are directed to close immediately. Restaurants are restricted to carry – out, drive – through, and delivery to ensure food is available while maintaining social distancing. Restaurant staff are not permitted to serve patrons indoors or in outdoor seating areas. If a restaurant has outdoor seating, onsite consumption in the outdoor seating area is not permitted pursuant to the Order of Abatement. Furthermore, all areas of North Carolina are subject to mass gathering restrictions and social distancing guidelines.
Local law enforcement and district attorneys are generally responsible for enforcement of the Order (N. C. Gen. Stat. 166A – 19.30(a)(2 )) and the Order of Abatement. Failure to comply with the Order of Abatement issued by the Secretary of the NC Department of Health and Human Services may result in injunctive relief against the establishment in question or prosecution for a misdemeanor offense. Violations of the Order a resubject to prosecution pursuant to N.C. Gen. Stat. 166A – 19.30(d) and are punishable as a Class 2 misdemeanor in accordance with N.C. G en. Stat. 14 – 288.20A.
For more information about coronavirus and Moore County’s response, visit www.moorecountync.gov/health
