Parks Access Expanded Coastal beaches to reopen - Please Follow Rules So they Stay Open
• The amended parks order allows individuals or household groups to drive to coastal parks
for lower-risk recreation, including hiking, walking, running, fishing, surfing and other water
sports, as well as for sunbathing and relaxing on beaches.
• “Visiting beaches for our physical and mental health is possible if we stay diligent about
social distancing, wearing face coverings when we come near other park users and staying
home if we have any Covid-19 symptoms,” Mase said. “We must continue to slow the
virus’ spread to protect our vulnerable residents and our healthcare resources.”
• The order continues to require that all park visitors practice physical distancing and wear
face coverings when they come within 6 feet of people who are not members of their
household. Park facilities that encourage social gatherings or that feature frequently
touched surfaces remain closed. These include picnic areas, barbecues, playgrounds, dog
parks, outdoor gym equipment, drinking fountains and recreational campgrounds.
While the order allows driving to parks and beaches within the county, it also urges visitors
to limit their time and interactions with others in public.
What is social distancing—and why are we doing it?
• “We’re so pleased residents can take a break from sheltering near home by visiting the
coast for exercise and fresh air,” said Susan Gorin, chair of the Sonoma County Board of
Supervisors. “As we enjoy the coast again, let’s continue to do our part to keep each other
safe: Carry a face covering, don’t socialize in groups, and avoid busy beaches if social
distancing will be challenging.”
video Url: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nlyxz2X97Do
The health order applies to all parks, trails and recreation areas in Sonoma County, including those managed by private organizations.
How to Wear a Face Covering Correctly
• “Reopening the beaches is a milestone for our community – we know many people have
waited patiently for this day,” said Bert Whitaker, director of Sonoma County Regional
Parks. “We’re committed to keeping coastal parks open this summer, and we appreciate
the public’s support for health guidelines that are meant to protect us all.”
https://socoemergency.org/june-2-amendment-to-health-order-no-c19-13
Video URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DNtF8NLUkPA
FAQs
Draft FAQs for 06-02 Parks Order
Is the health order allowing limited access to Sonoma County parks?
Sonoma County’s public health officer has amended a parks closure order to allow access to coastal parks beginning June 3, 2020. The order allows residents to drive, bike or walk to all open Sonoma County parks and beaches for basic exercise and recreation. The order is effective until further notice and is the latest modification to a full parks closure ordered at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.
How can I access and use the parks?
The parks health order allows you to walk, bike or drive to parks, trails and beaches for basic exercise and outdoor recreation while you continue to shelter near home. You must stay at least 6 feet from other parks users who are not members of your household. You must carry a face covering and wear the covering when you cannot maintain that distance.
Park managers may allow for an individual or a household group to use sports courts and playing fields. Playgrounds, picnic areas, dog parks, barbecue areas, drinking fountains, recreational campgrounds and other gathering or high-touch areas remain closed. Check with your local park agency for more information about the status of park amenities.
Can I drive to parks outside of my community?
The county is under a shelter in place order that restricts unnecessary travel. While driving to parks for basic exercise is allowed, park users are encouraged to stay close to home, limit their time and interactions with others in public, and if possible, initiate their park visits from their homes by walking, hiking or biking. If crowded parks make social distancing difficult, park managers can close parking areas, limit trail access or close parks.
Are park restrooms open?
The parks health order allows park agencies to reopen restrooms. However, some restrooms may remain closed due to maintenance issues. Please check with your parks department to learn about individual park facilities. Some parks might have temporary, portable restrooms available and no hand-washing stations. Please carry your own hand sanitizer.
Am I required to wear a face covering in a park?
You must carry a face covering when you are in a park, and you must wear the covering when you come within 6 feet of other visitors (who are not members of your household.) This rule applies all users, whether walking, hiking, jogging, biking or fishing. For more information, see the Sonoma County health officer’s order regarding face coverings.
