Due to the stabilization of COVID-19 cases on Big Island, Mayor Mitch Roth signed the Mayor’s COVID-19 First Amended Emergency Rule No.18.  The amended emergency rule allows for outdoor gatherings of up to a capacity of 25  for the general public and 50 for organized recreational activities at county facilities.  Indoor gatherings remain limited to 10 persons.

In addition, the use of all county pavilions is granted pending proper permits for use. The use of tents and canopies at all county parks and beaches is also acceptable once again. An additional mechanism for gatherings beyond the specified limits pending adequate COVID-19 mitigation measures remains in place and can be used by any business or entity wishing to host more significant events. Special event requests are vetted and approved or denied by the County of Hawaiʻi Civil Defense Administration and the Office of the Mayor.

“Because of the diligent work of everyone throughout our communities to slow the spread and keep our numbers down, we can now safely welcome our keiki and their families back to our fields and open-air gymnasiums once again,” said Mayor Mitch Roth in a press release. “We’re encouraging every team and league on the island to work with us so that we can not only allow for practice and games but also for spectators so that our keiki can have the support systems they need for their success. That said, we’d like to mahalo the parents, fans, coaches, and especially the keiki for their patience and understanding as we continue to battle this pandemic together.”

The County of Hawaiʻi is encouraging organized recreational programs to apply for special events permits to allow for spectators. Representatives from the Department of Parks and Recreation are available and willing to assist teams and organizations in the COVID-19 mitigation planning process to ensure the health and safety of all athletes and spectators. For more information, please visit hawaiicounty.gov/coronavirus.