COVID-19 Update: Seated Dining Restricted in Halifax

In response to a recent surge of COVID-19 cases, Nova Scotia’s Premiere, Ian Rankin, and chief medical officer of health, Dr. Robert Strang, announced today that pandemic restrictions will be reinstated in the Halifax area for at least four weeks. As of 8 a.m on Friday, April 23, all restaurants and licensed establishments will be closed to seated service in the Halifax Regional Municipality and to the entire communities of Hubbards, Milford, Lantz, Elmsdale, Enfield, South Uniacke, Ecum Secum and Trafalgar. These restrictions ban both indoor and patio dining while take-out, delivery, or curbside pick-up will be permitted.

“We understand this is disruptive, but it is necessary to regain control of the virus,” Dr. Strang said as he urged Nova Scotians to avoid travelling in and out of these areas unless absolutely necessary. These restrictions will remain in effect until at least May 20.

In addition to the restrictions placed on restaurants, other changes include:

• limiting both indoor and outdoor gatherings to five
• restricting establishments from hosting activities such as darts, cards, pool and bowling
• banning social events, festivals, arts/cultural events, sports events, faith gatherings, wedding receptions, and funeral visitation/receptions
• limiting wedding and funeral ceremonies hosted by a recognized business or organization to five, plus officiants
• capping capacity at 25 percent for retail businesses and malls

People who do not follow the gathering limit or host illegal gatherings will be fined.

The Canadian Institute of Food Safety will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on changing restrictions as they occur.