MAY 15, 2020 PHASE 1: TEMPORARY OUTDOOR SEATING IN STAFFORD

On Friday, May 15, 2020, Governor Northam’s Executive Order 61 takes effect. This order allows for easing some of the restrictions in place due to COVID-19. Order 61 allows for “restaurants, dining establishments, food courts, breweries, microbreweries, distilleries, wineries, and tasting rooms to operate delivery, take-out, and outdoor dining and beverage services only, provided such businesses comply with the Guidelines”. Please refer and read Order 61 in detail.

If your business would like to expand your outdoor seating, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has provided an expedited method to gain approval with a VDH permit, a requirement of the VDH permit is approval from the locality.  In order to meet this requirement, Stafford County has developed an approval process using an online fillable application at zero cost to the business. If you would prefer, you can download and fill out a PDF version of the Temporary Outdoor Seating Registration. You can submit the form via email to Melody Musante.

If your restaurant already has a permit for outdoor seating, you may expand your seating area if you fill out this form. If you are not expanding your outdoor seating beyond your existing permitted area, you need not fill out this form—but do follow Order 61.

More information can be found at the Stafford County Planning and Zoning website.

Support our Local Restaurants and Businesses

Stafford County Tourism has put together a website featuring Stafford’s restaurants, bistros, bakeries, and other food services that are still open during these challenging times. Check out the interactive map of where to eat on www.ToGoStafford.com. Many restaurants and businesses are offering services such as take-out, delivery, or both. With the Governor’s new Executive Order 61, we continue to encourage all businesses and residents to call or check local establishment’s websites and social media for meal options. Visit the website for a list of participating Stafford restaurants. #StaffordEatsLocal #TourStaffordVA

Click here to view full newsletter >>