On Feb. 3 Region 8 (Kane and DuPage Counties) moved into Phase 4 of the "Restore Illinois" plan. Phase 4 safety guidelines allow indoor service for restaurants and bars for parties of up to 10 people. Tables must be 6 feet apart and standing areas are limited to 25% of capacity. Retail, service, and personal care businesses have a capacity limit of no more than 50% occupancy. Social distancing, the use of face coverings, and frequent hand-washing are still required to reduce the spread of the virus. A metrics-based approach will be followed to move gradually towards Phase 5. Information about the reopening timeframe follows.
Last Updated: April 21, 2021

On April 27 CDC released new guidelines regarding when face coverings will be required. Fully vaccinated people are now allowed to participate in various outdoor activities without wearing face coverings and other indoor activities while wearing a mask without social distancing. Governor Pritzker has updated the State's current face covering requirements accordingly.  
Last Updated: May 3, 2021

Region 8 returned to Phase 4 of the Governor’s "Restore Illinois" plan on Feb. 3. Governor JB Pritzker signed a new Gubernational Disaster Proclamation extending the statewide declaration through May 29, 2021. On Mar. 18 the state announced new metrics for the Bridge to Phase 5 transition period. Once the metrics are reached, the Bridge Phase will allow higher capacity limits and increased business operations advancing the State closer to Phase 5. Barring any significant increases in COVID-19 metrics, the State will move into the Bridge transition period on May 14 and into Phase 5 as early as June 11.
Last Updated: May 7, 2021

To prepare businesses and employers to implement the Phase 4 safety guidelines, the State of Illinois has developed industry-specific guidance and a Business Toolkit to ensure business and activities are conducted under the latest public health recommendations. In Phase 4 businesses are expected to operate with reduced capacity, social distancing, and face coverings. Regular cleanings and employee health screenings are also included in the safety guidance. Effective August 26, face coverings must be worn by patrons in both indoor and outdoor dining settings during any interaction with employees. Masks covering the nose and mouth will be required when employees take patrons orders, deliver food and beverages, and service tables.
Last Updated: Sept. 16, 2020

Effective August 7, 2020, new IDPH COVID-19 emergency rules require any business, service, facility or organization to direct employees, customers and other individuals to cover their nose and mouth with a face covering when they are in a public place and unable to maintain a six-foot distance, whether indoors or outdoors. The emergency rule also prohibits gatherings of more than 50 people, or 50% or more of a buildings maximum occupancy. The rules provide a new enforcement and penalty process with opportunities for compliance before a penalty is issued.
Last Updated: Aug. 11, 2020

The Kane County Health Department has published a toolkit to support employers in preventing the spread of COVID-19 at the workplace. The Illinois Department of Public Health has published Guidance on the Use of Face Masks and FAQs for Businesses Concerning Use of Face Coverings to help with compliance. IDPH has also provided strategies for preventing workplace exposure for non-healthcare settings.
Last Updated: Nov. 12, 2020