City Council Passes Ordinance Restricting Gatherings and Promoting Social Distancing

City Council Passes Ordinance Restricting Gatherings and Promoting Social Distancing

On April 8, the City Council passed "An Emergency Ordinance to Prevent Contagion of the COVID-19 Virus in Public Places under the Jurisdiction of the City of Newburyport".  The main points of the ordinance:

  • All permits and licenses for public events on city property are suspended 
  • Playgrounds, courts, and athletic fields are closed except for passive recreation (walking, running, biking, hiking)
  • No gatherings of 10 or more people on public property and public ways
  • For gatherings of any size, individuals must maintain 6 feet distance

Police has the authority to enforce restrictions on gatherings and social distancing through ticketing and fines.

The Ordinance will remain in effect until May 4th, unless terminated earlier by the Newburyport Board of Health.