Huntington Beach launches HB Reopens website to provide

clear guidance on proposed reopening plan

County Seeks State Approval To Reopen Additional Workplaces

This past week, the State provided that certain counties may meet “readiness criteria” to transition more quickly into a Later Stage 2 opening of their local economies.  Given the updated criteria, the County of Orange has submitted an application to the State to facilitate an accelerated Later Stage 2 reopening of local businesses.

“We support the County’s efforts to move forward with a safe re-opening of our Huntington Beach economy, as expeditiously as possible,” says Mayor Lyn Semeta.  “Our local business community has communicated their intent to put measures in place to safeguard the public.   We look forward to more businesses opening their doors, reemploying individuals, and providing the great services and products they have always provided.”

City Launches HB Reopens to Provide Clearer Guidelines

Given the numerous conflicting reports that currently exist regarding business reopening regulations, Huntington Beach has launched the HB Reopens webpage (www.HBReady.com/reopen).  This site provides an explanation for all of the State’s reopening Stages, when our local businesses can reopen, and how to do so safely. 

Currently, the State has provided that all Orange County cities are required to abide by the State’s Early Stage 2 rules, which permit the following lower risk businesses to reopen now, with modifications for their specific industry:

  • Curbside retail, including but not limited to:
    • Bookstores
    • Jewelry stores
    • Toy stores
    • Clothing stores
    • Shoe stores
    • Home and furnishing stores
    • Sporting goods stores
    • Antique stores
    • Music stores
    • Florists

(list continued on next page)

  • Supply chains for the businesses above, in manufacturing, logistics and warehousing
    • Select services, including car washes, pet grooming, landscape gardening,
    • Office-based businesses (telework is still strongly encouraged)
    • Outdoor museums, open gallery spaces, and other public spaces
    • Childcare
    • All Stage 1 essential workplaces

Given that Orange County has applied for an accelerated Later Stage 2 reopening, it is anticipated that within the next 1-2 weeks, additional businesses will be allowed to reopen in-store operations. 

In advance of the Later Stage 2 reopening decision, please visit www.HBready.com/reopen to access industry-specific guidance to prepare your businesses for reopening ahead of time.

When we do get to Later Stage 2, current regulations (which may be subject to change) allow for the following business operations:

  • Dine-in restaurants (bars and gaming areas are not permitted)
  • Destination retail, including shopping malls and swap meets
  • Schools with modifications
  • Some personal services (salons and barber shops)
  • Live sports without audiences

For more detailed information about the Governor’s Plan to Reopen, visit www.HBReady.com/reopen or the State’s site at https://covid19.ca.gov/industry-guidance/.

Link to Press Release PDF Here