Effective Friday, March 12 at 5 p.m., capacity limits will be lifted on outdoor and indoor dining at restaurants and food service establishments. Bars and restaurants will continue to be open for seated and distanced service only. Capacity limits will also be lifted on retail businesses, religious facilities, fitness centers, casinos, personal services, and indoor recreational establishments. Larger outdoor and indoor venues, including theaters; concert, convention, and wedding venues; racing facilities, and outdoor entertainment and sporting venues may begin operating at 50% capacity.

Maryland’s statewide masking order remains in full force and effect. It applies in the public spaces of all businesses and indoor facilities across the state, on public transportation, and in all outdoor public areas whenever it is not possible to maintain physical distancing.

These steps are made possible because of Marylanders wearing masks, washing their hands, keeping their distance, and following the public health advice, and because our businesses have carefully followed safe reopening practices and public health guidelines.