Coastal Beaches, Parking Areas to Reopen as Parks Access Expanded in New Health Order
Santa Rosa, CA – June 2, 2020 – Sonoma County’s health officer on Tuesday further eased restrictions on outdoor recreation during the Covid-19 pandemic by issuing an order that allows park agencies to reopen coastal parking lots and restore daytime visiting hours at beaches.
The order means residents can drive to Sonoma Coast parks and trails beginning Wednesday, June 3. The order replaces a May 12 order that allowed only walk-in coastal access and closed beaches between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.
The order continues to require that all park visitors practice physical distancing and wear face coverings when they come within 6 feet of people who are not members of their household. Park facilities that encourage social gatherings or that feature frequently touched surfaces remain closed. These include picnic areas, barbecues, playgrounds, dog parks, outdoor gym equipment, drinking fountains and recreational campgrounds.
While the order allows driving to parks and beaches within the county, it also urges visitors to limit their time and interactions with others in public.
The health order applies to all parks, trails and recreation areas in Sonoma County, including those managed by private organizations.