COVID-19: Many Changes in State COVID Rules as Phase Two Reopening Occurs

Published on June 24, 2020

Sports, Graduations, Casinos, Playgrounds, Motor Vehicle Offices and More Affected

Gov. Phil Murphy's multi-stage approach to a "responsible and strategic economic restart'' to put New Jersey on the road to recovery from COVID-19 has entered Phase Two, with many relaxations of original COVID restrictions now in effect or set to start in the coming days and weeks.(PNG, 54KB)

The Governor has stressed that the state will continue to relax COVID-19 rules based on data that demonstrates improvements in public health and the ability to safeguard residents.

Since the restart is being phased-in within each stage, rather than opening all businesses and activities at once, we offer you a guide to key Stage Two dates, with links to specific information, to help ease any confusion.

Stage Two

In Stage Two, moderate-risk activities are restarting. As part of this effort, residents are being asked to face coverings and practice social distancing.

• June 15: Child care centers reopen their doors to all clients.
• June 15: Outdoor dining reopens.
• June 15: Non-essential retail stores reopen for indoor shopping.
• June 15: Motor Vehicle Commission agencies reopen for pick-up and drop-off services.
• June 15: Libraries reopen for curbside pickup.
• June 22: Organized sports activities resume.
• June 22: Personal care businesses, including barber shops and hair salons, reopen.
• June 22: Swimming pools reopen.
• June 22: Limit on outdoor gatherings increases to 250 people.
• June 29: Motor Vehicle Commission agencies begin to offer behind-the-wheel road tests and resume issuing new licenses and permits.
• June 29: Indoor portions of retail shopping malls reopen. However, indoor entertainment businesses, like movie theaters or arcades, will remain closed.
• July 2: Casinos reopen.
• July 2: Indoor dining reopens.
• July 2: Libraries reopening at 25 percent capacity
• July 2: Museums reopen at 25 percent capacity
• July 2: Aquariums reopen at 25 percent capacity
• July 2: Indoor recreation reopens at 25 percent capacity (batting cages, bowling alleys, shooting ranges and others)
• July 2: Gyms/fitness centers: appointment only individual training
• July 2: Outdoor playgrounds, outdoor amusement parks, and outdoor water parks reopen.
• July 3: Limit on outdoor gatherings increases to 500 people (anticipated).
• July 6: Youth day camps and summer programs can operate.
• July 6: Modified outdoor graduation ceremonies begin.
• July 6: Resumption of Moderate Risk Sports