June 4, 2020
Media Contact:
Scott Peterson, Director of Communications, Office of Public Information, 202-277-9412
Coronavirus Updates: Outdoor Seating Permit, What’s Open and Closed in Howard County, Library System Updates, Blood Drives
ELLICOTT CITY, MD – Howard County Executive Calvin Ball announced today a new Temporary Use Permit for Outdoor Table Service for restaurants and bars that do not currently have outdoor table service or need to expand existing outdoor table service. Beginning today, June 4th, businesses can apply by visiting: https://accela1.howardcountymd.gov/citizenaccess/. If the proposed outdoor seating is located on private property, businesses may provisionally set up and begin using the outdoor seating; however Howard County may suspend, revoke, or require modifications to the arrangement should conditions that conflict with Howard County guidelines or safe operations arise. If the proposed outdoor seating is located on county property, businesses must wait for their permit to be issued before setting up new seating.
“We recognize the unique challenges of our restaurants and bars and created this expedited process to allow more businesses to reopen under current conditions,” said Ball. “Howard County has a robust restaurant industry, and we’re committed to creating systems throughout this crisis that support their ability to serve their customers and remain safe and healthy.”
Businesses must follow all requirements of applicable Executive Orders, and requirements and guidance issued by local, state and federal authorities. Continued outdoor table service requires approval of your application and the issuance of all applicable permits. Permits are temporary and applicable during the state of emergency. If you have any questions, please call 410-313-2455, option #4, or email permits@howardcountymd.gov.
What’s Open and Closed in Howard County
Following the Governor’s Executive Order yesterday, Howard County is aligning its reopening status with the State of Maryland. A non-exhaustive list of what is open in Howard County, and what continues to remain closed:
Opening as of Friday, June 5th at 5: p.m.:
• Businesses (50% capacity)
o Construction
o Wholesalers
o Warehouses
o Offices
o Financial Institutions
o Auto dealerships
• All personal services (appointment only, 50% capacity)
o Esthetician services
o Massage and facial services
o Nail salons
o Tattoo parlors
o Tanning salons
• Religious institutions (50% indoor capacity)
• Howard County Parks Restrooms
Previously Opened:
• Barber shops and hair salons
• Car washes (50% capacity)
• Howard County Parks
o Tennis Courts
o Recreational fishing
o Disc Golf
o Pickleball Courts
o Sports fields (Opening June 6th)
o Timbers at Troy Golf Course
o Worthington Dog Park (by appointment only)
• Restaurants (outdoor dining, carryout, delivery)
• Golf Courses
• Marinas and watercraft rental businesses
• Outdoor archery and shooting ranges
• Outdoor pools
• Photographers (10 persons or less)
• Youth Camps
• Recreation and Parks camps open June 29th
• Retail (50% capacity)
• Drive-in Movie theaters
• The Mall in Columbia (curbside pick-up)
• The Shops at Savage (curbside pick-up)
Remaining Closed Until Further Notice:
• Bowling Alleys
• County and Community playgrounds
• Gyms and fitness centers
• Indoor aquatic centers
• Miniature golf
• Movie theaters
• Senior Centers
All businesses should follow public health guidance and safety protocols:
• Wear face coverings
• Employers should conduct daily screenings
• Re-evaluate shifts, schedules, and office configuration
• Telework when possible
Library System
Howard County Library System will begin contactless pickup at all six branches beginning Monday, June 29. Hours will be 10 am to 6 pm, Monday through Saturday. Details on how to use contactless pickup will be shared in the coming days. In the meantime, please continue to keep your materials at home and check out our wide variety of eBooks, eAudiobooks, movies, virtual classes, and more.
Blood Drives
The American Red Cross is experiencing a blood shortage, below are a list of upcoming blood drives:
Harper’s Choice Community Association at Kahler Hall - Community Blood Drive
June 11, 2020 & Thursday, June 25, 2020 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
5440 Old Tucker Row, Columbia MD
Schedule an appointment.
St. Andrews Episcopal Church
June 17, 2020 1p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
2892 MD-97, Glenwood MD 21738
Schedule an appointment.
Howard County General Blood Drive
July 6, 2020, 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. & July 7, 2020, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Howard County General Hospital Medical Pavilion
Suite 100 10710 Charter Drive, Columbia MD 21044
Schedule an appointment.