The state health department approved Denver’s application to allow businesses that follow extra COVID-19 precautions to host more customers, but you won’t see a change immediately.
The Five Star Program allows certified businesses to host customers at a less-restrictive level than their county’s COVID-19 metrics would indicate. Denver is at “level orange” on the state’s dial framework, with most businesses limited to 25% of capacity. Under the program, those that complete the certification process can operate at 50% of capacity.
As of Thursday afternoon, 319 businesses have applied for certification under the Five Star Program, according to a news release from the city. Of those, 31 have undergone the required inspection to ensure their infection-control practices are rigorous enough, and 19 are on track for approval. It isn’t clear when they may receive it.
The program is most frequently discussed as a way to sustain restaurants, but it also is open to gyms, personal service businesses, indoor events and “general business.” Businesses that apply must agree to perform extra cleaning, get contact information to notify customers in case of an outbreak and take other precautions. Facilities previously cited for breaking public health rules aren’t eligible.
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