Changes to Sector-Specific Capacity, Effective February 8, 2021

Given recent improvements in state COVID-19, some of the recent temporary occupancy restrictions in sectors listed below are being lifted. Governor Baker announced these changes during his February 4, 2021 press conference. These changes are effective Monday, February 8, 2021, at 5:00 am. 

Lifting 25% Capacity Restriction

1. All businesses in the list below, currently limited to 25% capacity, will return to 40% capacity, as previously allowed. (The sector-specific industry standards dated in December 2020 will apply.)
   • Arcades and Recreational Businesses
   • Driving and Flight Schools
   • Gyms/Health Clubs
   • Libraries
   • Museums
   • Retail
   • Offices
   • Places of Worship
   • Lodging (common areas)
   • Golf (indoor areas)
   • Movie theaters (no more than 50 people per theater)
2. Restaurants will now be limited to 40% of their seated capacity and, as under the 25% capacity rule, employees will not count toward the limit
3. Close Contact Personal Services will now be limited to 40% capacity and, as under the 25% capacity rule, employees will be not counted toward the limit
   • A limit of 5 people per 1000 sq. feet applies for smaller businesses without an available fire occupancy capacity
4. There continue to be no capacity limits on manufacturing, construction, and laboratories — these sectors have never had capacity limits

Gatherings Order

1. The gatherings limit will stay at 10 indoors, 25 outdoors

The Commonwealth remains in Phase 3 Step 1 of Reopening (Order No. 58)

1. indoor performance venues and indoor recreation businesses like roller rinks and trampoline parks remain closed

Additional Resources

• Read the updated gatherings order.
• Read the full February 4, 2021 press release: Baker-Polito Administration Awards Nearly $174 Million in Grants to 4,043 Additional Small Businesses for COVID Relief, Increases Capacity Limits for Businesses and Other Activities Press Release