DC limits indoor dining, gatherings

Washington, D.C., will limit indoor dining to 25 percent capacity and cap other indoor gatherings at 10 people in response to rising COVID-19 cases in the district.

Mayor Muriel Bowser announced Monday a series of tweaks to existing COVID-19 restrictions aimed at slowing the spread of the virus. 

“These changes are meant to flatten the curve, help us reserve hospital beds for the most in need of care and keep our community safe during this nationwide surge,” Bowser said during a press conference.

As cases surge in Washington, D.C., and across the country, the limit for outdoor gatherings will be reduced from 50 to 25 and indoor gatherings may not exceed 10 people, effective Wednesday. 

Houses of worship must reduce capacity for indoor activities from 100 people to 50 people or 50 percent capacity, whichever is lower.

Gyms, private trainers and other businesses and recreation centers must suspend indoor and outdoor group exercise classes of 25 or more people. 

Restaurants must reduce capacity for indoor dining from 50 percent to 25 percent by Dec. 14. 

Restaurants can stay open until midnight but alcohol sales must end by 10 p.m.

Washington, D.C., is averaging about 170 new COVID-19 cases per day, an 86 percent increase from the average two weeks ago, with deaths and hospitalizations also increasing.