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COVID-19 Update: What Atlanta’s stay-at-home order means

Just recently, more cities across the country are issuing guidelines and measures to prevent the coronavirus outbreak from worsening. That includes Atlanta’s stay-at-home order. But, what does it exactly mean? Continue reading to better understand Atlanta’s stay-at-home order.

What is the stay-at-home order?

The stay-at-home order was issued by Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms not long ago. Under this Executive Order (read the entire document here), individuals living in the City of Atlanta must stay at home until April 7, 2020. Only frontliners and people working in essential businesses are allowed to go out.

As coronavirus cases continue to rise, the following businesses and establishments within the City of Atlanta must remain closed:

  • Bars and nightclubs that don’t offer food
  • Gyms and other fitness facilities
  • Entertainment venues (i.e. movie theaters, live performance venues, arcades, etc.)
  • Private social clubs

Meanwhile, food and beverage establishments are allowed to continue their operations provided they don’t offer dine-in services. Delivery, drive-through, and take-out are fine. 

At the same time, the Centers of Hope Afterschool program will continue to provide free meals to their students.

What are the services and businesses that are considered essential?

Aside from utilities, first responders (emergency responders and dispatchers, firemen, and the police), food and beverage establishments, and medical care providers, the following are considered essential:

  • Food and supplies stores (Groceries, supermarkets, food banks, farmers markets, hardware stores, and convenience stores)
  • Farming
  • Establishments that provide food, shelter, and social services for the less fortunate and economically disadvantaged
  • Media establishments
  • Banks and credit unions
  • Hotels
  • Laundromats and dry cleaners
  • Legal, accounting, and other professional services
  • Home-based care, residential facilities, and shelters
  • Post office and couriers that provide shipping services

Schools and universities are also considered essential. But for the duration of the stay-at-home order, they’ll remain closed to students. They can, however, continue their operations if they’re going to provide online learning. 

Are we allowed to purchase and consume wine and alcoholic beverages?

Yes, you are allowed. So far, there is no alcohol ban in place in the City of Atlanta. You can buy from a store licensed to sell these beverages and consume it within the comforts of your own home.

Am I affected if I live outside the City of Atlanta?

If you live in the Atlanta metro area, your community will most likely have their own public health measures and guidelines in place. They might also be similar to the ones included in the City of Atlanta’s stay-at-home order. To be safe, follow your own city or county’s regulations. 

Can I hang out with my neighbors?

No. For the meantime, non-essential gatherings are prohibited. If you live in a condo or an apartment complex with common areas, make sure to keep your distance (at least six feet away) from other people. This is part of the social distancing measures which is also highly recommended to be practiced at home. 

Is MARTA still open for the remainder of the stay-at-home order?

Yes, MARTA is still operating. Just remember to maintain a distance of at least six feet from other pedestrians and passengers. It won’t also hurt to take extra precautionary measures such as wearing a face mask and keeping a bottle of sanitizer in your bag.

Are we still allowed to go out?

For now, yes. It is, however, highly discouraged. As much as possible, only go out if you need to get supplies from the grocery, take your pet to the veterinarian, you need to get money from the bank, or you must see a healthcare provider. 

If you’re required to work from home by your employer and you’ve yet to set up your work space, you can also go out and get what you need provided these stores are open.

Is there a website where I can stay up to date with the latest news in the City of Atlanta?

Yes! The City of Atlanta recently launched the website #ATLSTRONG, which is to be the city’s main resource hub for COVID-19 matters. You can find other frequently asked questions (and their respective answers) here, as well as other relevant information.

Atlanta Beats COVID is another helpful resource, especially if you would like to volunteer or donate supplies to our hospitals and front liners. 

If you’d like to receive regular updates on your phone, you can also sign up for mobile alerts. Simply text “ALTCOVID19” and send it to 888777. Data fees may apply. 

Let’s all stay at home and keep everyone safe

Follow CDC safety guidelines. If you’d like to continue with your search for homes for sale in Atlanta, browse my website for our property listings. When it’s safe for everyone, we can resume with your home buying or home selling experience. Keep in touch with me for Atlanta real estate updates at 404.550.5113 or Natalie(dotted)Gregory(at)Compass(dotted)com.

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