COVID-19 Updates
Confirmed Cases in Addison
View a list of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Addison here.
Updates
January 18
The federal government launched a website on Tuesday, January 18 where people can order COVID-19 test kits for their families. The test kits, which include four individual rapid antigen tests, are being distributed by the U.S. Postal Service and are limited to one kit per residential address. Tests are scheduled to begin shipping in late January.
Residents can request their tests online at www.covidtests.gov.
December 27
On Monday, December 27, the CDC announced an adjusted recommended time for isolation from 10 days for people with COVID-19 to 5 days, if they are asymptomatic. The five-day isolation should be followed by 5 days of wearing a mask when around others.
The change is motivated by science demonstrating that the majority of SARS-CoV-2 transmission occurs early in the course of illness, generally in the 1-2 days before the onset of symptoms and the 2-3 days after.
Learn more about the updated guidelines at the link below.
July 27 Update
On Tuesday, July 27, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended that Americans wear masks indoors again, particularly in crowded indoor settings. The new indoor mask recommendations apply to vaccinated and unvaccinated people who live in areas where the CDC has classified Covid-19 transmission as “high” or “substantial,” a category that includes Dallas, Tarrant, Denton, and Collin counties.
Citing new information about the ability of the delta variant to spread among vaccinated people, the CDC also recommended indoor masks for teachers, staff, students, and visitors to schools, regardless of vaccination status. Masks prevent infected individuals from exposing others to the virus and protect uninfected people by forming a protective barrier to large respiratory droplets.
March 11 Update
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) announced on Wednesday, March 10 that beginning March 15 people 50 years and older will be eligible to be vaccinated. More than 93 percent of the Texas fatalities directly caused by the coronavirus have been in people 50 and older, with those ages 50 to 64 accounting for 20 percent of all fatalities. More than half of all Texas seniors have received at least one dose of vaccine, and 30 percent are now fully vaccinated. The number of COVID-19 positive patients in Texas hospitals has fallen by two-thirds from its peak in mid-January. There are about 5 million Texans between the ages of 50 and 64; more than 1 million of them are already vaccinated.
March 10 Update
As permitted by the Governor’s latest executive order, Town employees will continue to follow COVID-19 safety protocols, including sanitization practices, physical distancing, and wearing face masks in Town facilities to protect our employees and residents. At this time, Town facilities will continue to operate as they have been for the past several months; this includes the Athletic Club (face masks in common areas, same operating days and times, special times for face masks only). Staff will evaluate the ability to safely resume normal operations at the Athletic Club and other Town facilities in the near future and as circumstances dictate (wider availability of the COVID-19 vaccine, etc.).
In the meantime, Town staff remains ready and committed to continue to provide services to our customers. The use of our virtual service offerings continues to be strongly encouraged. If an in-person appointment is necessary, we will work to safely accommodate the request as we have since the beginning of the pandemic. While we anxiously await the day when we can welcome residents back with a great big smile, we ask that all visitors to Town facilities continue to wear masks for your safety and ours.
March 2 Update
Governor Greg Abbott announced that he will be rescinding most of his COVID-19-related statewide mandates on Wednesday, March 10. This will include expanding capacities at all Texas businesses to 100%, and allowing his statewide mask order to expire.
The governor cited positive trends in active cases, positivity rates and hospitalizations — as well as the ramp-up in vaccine distribution to as many as 1 million shots administered per week — as the basis for his decision. While the statewide mandates are set to expire, Gov. Abbott urged Texans to continue taking precautions to keep themselves and others safe.
The Governor's latest order also allows for county-level restrictions. Specifically, if a Trauma Service Area sees COVID-19-related hospitalizations above 15% for seven consecutive days, county judges will have the ability to issue limited orders of their own to fight back against the spike. As a reminder, our own Trauma Service Area that covers much of North Texas hit that milestone in early December 2020, but was able to roll back enhanced restrictions on Tuesday, Feb. 16.
February 16 Update
Trauma Service Area E (TSA E), which includes Dallas County and the greater Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, reached seven consecutive days where the percentage of COVID-19 confirmed patients in regional hospitals, as a percentage of available hospital beds, was at or below 15 percent. According to Governor Abbott’s Executive Order GA-32 (GA-32), TSA E is no longer an area with high hospitalizations and certain occupancy reductions are automatically rescinded by reaching this threshold. Businesses, including restaurants, currently at 50% occupancy can now resume 75% occupancy rates. For additional information, please visit the Dallas County Website and www.addisontexas.net/covid.
January 15 Update
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January 8 Update
Due to the limited supply, the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine is being prioritized to people who qualify as Phase 1A which includes health-care workers and residents of long-term care facilities, and Phase 1B which includes people over 65 years old and those with underlying health conditions. Dallas County has established a pre-screening form for county residents to determine their eligibility. Residents can go to dallascounty.org/covid-19/covid-19-vaccination.php to register and will be notified of the next steps as the vaccine becomes available.
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) website indicates that beginning next week, Texas will direct most COVID-19 vaccines received to large sites or hubs around the state. They will publish the complete list of vaccine hub providers, once vaccine allocation is finalized.
Dallas County announced Thursday it plans to launch a “mega” public COVID-19 vaccination site at Fair Park next week, where thousands of people can be inoculated each day. Shots will be available by appointment only to those who have pre-registered online.
If you are in Phase 1 and eligible to receive the vaccine, you can also check the websites of vaccine providers listed on the Texas COVID‑19 Vaccine Provider Locations map to see if they have enough vaccine supply at this time:
- Do not show up at a hospital or clinic looking for a vaccine.
- Instead please check their website for information about vaccine availability.
- Call only if the website doesn’t answer your questions.
For more COVID-19 related information, please visit the Dallas County Website.
December 4 Update
Dallas County reported last night that Trauma Service Area E (TSA E), which includes Dallas County and the greater Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, reached seven consecutive days where the percentage of COVID-19 confirmed patients in regional hospitals, as a percentage of available hospital beds, exceeded 15 percent. According to Governor Abbott’s Executive Order GA-32 (GA-32), this makes TSA E an area with high hospitalizations and certain occupancy reductions are automatically triggered by reaching this threshold.
Businesses whose occupancy rates were increased to 75% in October through GA-32 are immediately reduced back to 50%. This includes all restaurants, retail stores, office buildings, manufacturing facilities, gyms and exercise facilities and classes, museums, and libraries in Dallas County and the other counties comprising TSAE. A full list of affected businesses can be located at https://open.texas.gov/. These capacity reductions do not affect businesses listed under the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) guidance or covered by other exemptions contained in GA-32.
TSA E will remain under these restrictions until there are seven consecutive days where the percentage of COVID-19 confirmed patients in regional hospitals as a percentage of available hospital beds is at 15 percent or less. The Texas Department of State Health Services provides additional information on GA-32 and a list of all affected counties at https://www.dshs.texas.gov/ga32/.
October 7 Update
Governor Abbott issued an Executive Order on October 7 to open bars and similar establishments at up to 50% capacity in conjunction with county officials. In hospital regions where COVID-19 hospitalizations are less than 15% of hospital capacity, County Judges will be able to opt their county into opening bars beginning October 14, provided they assist in enforcing health protocols. If a County Judge authorizes the opening of these establishments, certain protocols must be followed. The Governor's Executive Order also increases the occupancy levels for all business establishments other than bars to 75%.
September 17 Update
Governor Abbott announced in a press conference on September 17 that capacity in many Texas businesses will be allowed to expand next week thanks to steady and significant improvements in COVID-19 trends statewide since their peaks in July.
Here are the highlights:
- Retail, restaurants, office buildings, manufacturing facilities, gyms, museums and libraries may expand to 75% capacity beginning Monday, Sept. 21
- Bars will remain closed
- Nursing homes, assisted living, and other long-term care facilities that do not have an active COVID-19 outbreak may reopen to visitation on Thursday, Sept. 24
- Hospitals in regions with COVID-19-related hospitalizations under 15% will be allowed to resume ordinary, elective surgical procedures
Several other business types will remain at 50% capacity for now, including wedding reception venues, movie theaters, amusement parks and waterparks, bowling alleys, fine arts performance halls, video game facilities, zoos, aquariums, natural caverns and more.
Gov. Abbott shared that wearing masks, social distancing, and other CDC-recommended sanitation protocols were responsible for the state’s downtrends in hospitalization and positivity rates and encouraged Texans to continue these important preventative measures.
For a complete list of current restrictions and protocols, visit https://open.texas.gov/. You can view Gov. Abbott's Executive Order 30 here.
September 3 Update
On Wednesday, September 1, Dallas County lowered its COVID Risk Level from red, "Stay Home Stay Safe" to orange, "Extreme Caution" for the first time since May. This decision follows a decrease in hospital and ICU admissions over the past two weeks. People over 65 or in a high-risk group should still avoid in-person activities.
Dallas County Health and Human Services Director Dr. Philip Huang also said people should continue to observe the precautions that have helped lower the infection rate in the county and that lowering the risk level wasn't a cue to relax precautions. You can read more in this Dallas Morning News story.
August 4 Update
As of August 4, Dallas County Health and Human Services is reporting 641 additional confirmed cases of COVID-19, bringing the total confirmed case count in Dallas County to 52,131 confirmed cases, including 722 confirmed deaths. Addison has a total of 186 positive COVID-19 reported cases since the end of March and no deaths. The Dallas County COVID-19 dashboard, which is updated each Tuesday and Friday, allows you to filter cases by zip code and city.
July 17 Update
For 14 straight days, Dallas County has reported 1,000+ positive COVID-19 cases a day. As of July 14, Addison has had a total of 139 positive COVID-19 reported cases since the end of March and no deaths. The Dallas County COVID-19 dashboard, which is updated each Tuesday and Friday, allows you to filter cases by zip code and city.
On Thursday, July 16, Dallas County announced that public and private K-12 schools must push back their in-person start dates to after September 7. Before September 8, schools can hold classes online. Teachers and school administrators can conduct their classes on campus as long as they wear face coverings and maintain social distancing while in their buildings, school-sponsored events including clubs, sports and academic competitions, cannot take place until on-campus classes are allowed.
July 10 Update
The CDC is reminding people to self-quarantine if you might have been exposed to COVID-19. Quarantine is used to keep someone who might have been exposed to COVID-19 away from others and helps prevent the spread of disease that can occur before a person knows they are sick or if they are infected with the virus without feeling symptoms. People in quarantine should stay home, separate themselves from others, monitor their health, and follow directions from their state or local health department.
Anyone who has been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19 should quarantine. This includes people who previously had COVID-19 and people who have taken a serologic (antibody) test and have antibodies to the virus. What counts as close contact?
- You were within 6 feet of someone who has COVID-19 for at least 15 minutes.
- You provided care at home to someone who is sick with COVID-19.
- You had direct physical contact with the person (touched, hugged, or kissed them).
- You shared eating or drinking utensils.
- They sneezed, coughed, or somehow got respiratory droplets on you
Get more quarantine information here.
July 2 Update
Governor Greg Abbott today issued an Executive Order requiring all Texans to wear a face covering over the nose and mouth in public spaces in counties with 20 or more positive COVID-19 cases, with few exceptions. The Governor also issued a proclamation giving mayors and county judges the ability to impose restrictions on some outdoor gatherings of over 10 people, and making it mandatory that, with certain exceptions, people cannot be in groups larger than ten and must maintain six feet of social distancing from others.
June 26 Update
Governor Greg Abbott today issued an Executive Order limiting certain businesses and services as part of the state’s efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19. This decision comes as the number of people testing positive for COVID-19 and the number of hospitalizations have increased and the positivity rate in Texas increased above 10%, which the Governor previously stated would lead to further preventative action. The targeted, measured directives in the executive order are based on links between certain types of businesses and services and the recent rise in positive cases throughout the state.
The order includes the following:
- All bars and similar establishments that receive more than 51% of their gross receipts from the sale of alcoholic beverages are required to close at 12:00 PM today. These businesses may remain open for delivery and take-out, including for alcoholic beverages, as authorized by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission.
- Restaurants may remain open for dine-in service, but at a capacity not to exceed 50% of total listed indoor occupancy, beginning Monday, June 29, 2020.
- Outdoor gatherings of 100 or more people must be approved by local governments, with certain exceptions.
June 25 Update
On June 25, Governor Greg Abbott issued an Executive Order to ensure hospital bed availability for COVID-19 patients as Texas faces an increase in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. The Governor’s order suspends elective surgeries at hospitals in Bexar, Dallas, Harris, and Travis counties. Under this order, the Governor directed all hospitals in these counties to postpone all surgeries and procedures that are not immediately, medically necessary to correct a serious medical condition or to preserve the life of a patient who without an immediate performance of the surgery or procedure would be at risk for serious adverse medical consequences or death, as determined by the patient’s physician.
He also announced that the State of Texas will pause any further phases to open Texas as the state responds to the recent increase in positive COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. Businesses that are permitted to open under the previous phases can continue to operate at the designated occupancy levels and under the minimum standard health protocols provided by the Texas Department of State Health Services.
June 23 Update
Governor Abbott issued a proclamation expanded the ability of mayors and county judges to impose restrictions on outdoor gatherings of over 100 people. Previously, this applied only to outdoor gatherings over 500 people. The Governor also directed the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to enact emergency rules that provide strict health and safety standards and procedures related to COVID-19 for child care centers in Texas. These two actions are based on data showing an increase in COVID-19 transmission stemming from large gatherings and child care centers.
June 22 Update
Governor Greg Abbott held a press conference on Monday, June 22 to provide an update on Texas' continued response to COVID-19. The Governor discussed several steps the state is taking to mitigate the spread of the virus in the recent week including increasing enforcement of health and safety regulations, rapidly increasing testing in hot spots, and working with hospitals throughout the state to ensure they have the ability to treat Texans who test positive for COVID-19.
The Governor urged Texans and Texas businesses to follow the Minimum Standard Health Protocols established by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 as Texas continues to safely and strategically open the economy.
He reminded Texans to follow the safety protocols developed by his team of medical experts, including staying home if you are sick or at risk, sanitizing your hands, social distancing, and wearing face coverings or masks.
June 19 Update
On June 19 Dallas County announced that effective June 19, 2020 at 11:59pm, all commercial entities in Dallas County providing goods or services directly to the public must develop and implement a health and safety policy. The Health and Safety Policy must require, at a minimum, that all employees or visitors to the commercial entity’s business premises or other facilities wear face coverings. Commercial entities must post the Health and Safety Policy required by the Executive Order, which was approved by Dallas County Commissioners at a Special Meeting today, in a conspicuous location sufficient to provide notice to employees and visitors of all health and safety requirements.
Failure to develop and implement the Health and Safety Policy required by the order within five calendar days following the Effective Date may result in a fine not to exceed $500 for each violation.
June 16 Update
On Tuesday, June 16, Governor Greg Abbott and Executive Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs of the University of Texas (UT) System John Zerwas, MD, provided an update on Texas' hospital capacity. The Governor noted that despite an uptick in positive cases, there continues to be abundant hospital capacity. He also urged all Texans to continue to do their part to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and look out for the health of themselves and those around them.
Gov. Abbott reminded Texans that the best way to contain the spread of the virus is by following simple safety precautions including wearing a mask, washing hands, and socially distancing in public. He also encouraged people 65 years and old to remain at home.
Doctor Zerwas presented an in-depth update on hospital capacity in Texas. Doctor Zerwas' presentation can be viewed here.
June 3 Update
Governor Greg Abbott announced on Wednesday, June 3 the third phase of the State of Texas’ plan to safely open the economy while containing the spread of COVID-19. Under Phase III, effective immediately, all businesses in Texas will be able to operate at up to 50% capacity, with very limited exceptions. Businesses that previously have been able to operate at 100% capacity may continue to do so, and most outdoor areas are not subject to capacity limits. All businesses and customers should continue to follow minimum standard health protocols laid out by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).
Effective June 3:
- All businesses currently operating at 25% capacity can expand their occupancy to 50% with certain exceptions.
- Bars and similar establishments may increase their capacity to 50% as long as patrons are seated.
- Amusement parks and carnivals in counties with less than 1,000 confirmed positive cases may open at 50% capacity.
- Restaurants may expand their maximum table size from 6 to 10 persons.
Effective June 12:
- Restaurants may expand their occupancy levels to 75%.
- Counties with 10 or less active COVID-19 cases may expand their occupancy limits to 75%. Counties that fit this category but have not previously filed an attestation with DSHS will need to do so.
Effective June 19:
- Amusement parks and carnivals in counties with more than 1,000 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 may open at 50% capacity.
Additional Openings:
Special provisions have been made for outdoor gatherings, such as Fourth of July celebrations.
Further Protocols:
All businesses should continue to follow the minimum standard health protocols from DSHS. For details and a full list of guidelines, openings, and relevant dates, visit http://open.texas.gov.
Reminders for those going out:
- Individuals are encouraged to wear appropriate face coverings.
- People should not be in groups greater than ten when possible.
- People over the age of 65 are encouraged to stay at home as much as possible.
- People are still asked to avoid nursing homes, state-supported living centers, assisted living facilities, or long-term care facilities.
According to Dallas County, there have been 33 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Addison since March.
May 26 Update
Governor Greg Abbott issued a proclamation on May 26 expanding additional services and activities that can open under Phase II of the state's plan to safely and strategically open. With this proclamation, water parks, recreational sport programs for adults, driver education programs, and food-court dining areas within shopping malls can begin operations with limited occupancy or regulations to protect the health and safety of Texans.
Beginning Friday, May 29, water parks can open but must limit their occupancy to 25% of normal operating limits. Components of these water parks that have video arcades must remain closed. Starting Sunday, May 31st, recreational sports programs for adults can resume, but games and similar competitions may not begin until June 15th. Driver education programs can resume operations immediately.
Food-court dining areas within shopping malls can also immediately resume operations, but malls are encouraged to designate one or more individuals who are responsible for ensuring health and safety practices are followed, including: limiting tables to six individuals; maintaining a six-feet distance between individuals sitting at different tables; cleaning and disinfecting tables between uses; and ensuring no condiments or other items are left on tables between customer uses.
Minimum standard health protocols outlined by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) are recommended and located on the Open Texas webpage.
May 18 Update
Monday, May 18, Governor Abbott announced the second phase of Reopen Texas and provided an updated list of what types of businesses and activities can resume and when:
May 18
- Gyms, exercise facilities (previously announced May 5)
- Hair salons, barbershops (previously announced May 5)
- Non-essential manufacturers and other offices (previously announced May 5)
- NEW - Massage and personal care businesses (includes tattoo and piercing studios, laser hair removal, and hair loss treatment)
- NEW – Child care centers
- NEW – Youth clubs (YMCA, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, etc.)
May 22
- Restaurants at 50% capacity
- Bars, tasting rooms, and similar establishments at 25% capacity
- Bowling alleys, bingo halls, skating rinks, and simulcast racing at 25% capacity
- Rodeo and equestrian events at 25% capacity
- Aquariums, natural caverns, and similar facilities at 25% capacity
May 29
- Outdoor areas of zoos at 25% capacity
May 31
- Professional basketball, baseball, softball, golf, tennis, football, and car racing events without in-person spectators
- Day/overnight youth camps
- Youth sports
June 1
- School districts can hold summer school if following social distancing guidelines
For complete guidelines and information about upcoming reopening announcements, please visit www.gov.texas.gov/organization/opentexas.
May 6 Update
On Tuesday, May 5, Gov. Abbott issued Executive Order GA-21 that expanded the reopening of services as part of the safe, strategic plan to Open Texas in response to the COVID-19 disaster. Some of the highlights of the order include:
- Effective Friday, May 8: Cosmetology salons, hair salons, nail salons, tanning salons and barber shops will be allowed to open with restrictions, including one customer per stylist and appropriate social distancing. The governor also strongly recommended masks for both stylists and customers, and using a reservation system to avoid grouping of walk-ins in waiting areas.
- Effective Monday, May 18: Gyms and exercise facilities will be able to reopen with 25% capacity. Initial restrictions will include showers and locker rooms remaining closed, requirements for customers to wear gloves covering their whole hand, and the disinfection of all equipment after each use. Social distancing will be required as well, and any equipment brought in (such as a yoga mat), must be disinfected before and after use.
- Non-essential manufacturing and other offices will be welcome to reopen Monday, May 18 as long as they operate at up to the greater of either five employees or 25% of their workforce, provided employees maintain appropriate social distancing.
- Guidelines are still being worked out for bars, and the governor has requested that owners reach out to provide feedback.
- The 25% capacity for restaurants does not apply to patios, but you still must maintain social distancing.
- Weddings, funerals, memorials, and burials may now take place with the same regulations as religious services for seating arrangements, with receptions following the regulations of restaurants.
- Rules that apply to public parks also apply to beaches, lakes, and rivers – must maintain six feet of separation and limited to a household or no more than 5 in a group.
You can find the Open Texas Checklists for minimum health protocols here.
People over the age of 65 are strongly encouraged to stay at home as much as possible; to maintain appropriate distance from any member of the household who has been out of the residence in the previous 14 days; and, if leaving the home, to implement social distancing and to practice good hygiene, environmental cleanliness, and sanitation per CDC recommendations.
All individuals are encouraged to wear appropriate face coverings, but no jurisdiction can impose a civil or criminal penalty for failure to wear a face covering.
April 30 Update
In accordance with Gov. Abbott's April 27 Executive Order, Addison Town facilities will remain closed through May 15. The Governor's new order continues to require every person in Texas, except where necessary to provide or obtain essential services or reopened services, to minimize social gatherings, and minimize in-person contact with people who are not in the same household. It also requires people to continue practicing social distancing, work from home if possible, and practice good hygiene, environmental cleanliness, and sanitation. You can find the Texas Department of State Health Service (DSHS) minimum health protocols at www.dshs.texas.gov/coronavirus.
While Phase One of Gov. Abbott's Open Texas Plan begins on May 1, people over the age of 65 are strongly encouraged to stay at home as much as possible; to maintain appropriate distance from any member of the household who has been out of the residence in the previous 14 days; and, if leaving the home, to implement social distancing and to practice good hygiene, environmental cleanliness, and sanitation per CDC recommendations.
All individuals are encouraged to wear appropriate face coverings, but no jurisdiction can impose a civil or criminal penalty for failure to wear a face covering.
Town Offices will remain staffed, but closed to public traffic so the community should contact facilities/departments directly to conduct business virtually. The Addison Athletic Club and dog parks, as well as volleyball and recreational courts (including tennis courts) will also remain closed. The trails will remain open, but everyone is strongly encouraged to practice social distancing while using them. Even though playgrounds are open, the Addison Parks and Recreation staff recommends residents refrain from using them until after the COVID-19 pandemic subsides. While staff does periodically disinfect them, it is not feasible to clean them between each child's use. Reservations for any Town facilities are currently not being taken.
Emergency services will not be interrupted. The Addison Police, Animal Control, Fire, and Public Works Departments are fully staffed and have protocols in place to protect first responders so they can continue to serve the Addison community. Parks crews are still working in the field to maintain green spaces.
While Addison's friendly employees would usually love to connect with residents when they are working in your neighborhoods, they are doing their best to practice social distancing. Rather than approaching crew members, please contact the departments by email or phone or by using the FixIT app.
April 27 Update
At a press conference on April 27, Gov. Abbott unveiled a phased plan to open businesses. He shared that he will allow the Stay-at-Home order to expire on April 30 and that restaurants, retail stores, malls, and movie theaters can reopen on May 1 with a 25% capacity. Abbott also said non-contact sports like golf and tennis will be allowed to resume for groups of four or less, and that libraries and museums could open at 25% capacity (hands-on demonstrations must remain closed).
If there has not been a spike in COVID-19 cases after two weeks, Phase 2 could expand capacity to 50%.
Barbershops, salons, bars, and gyms were not included as part of the Phase 1 openings.
People over the age of 65, however, are strongly encouraged to stay at home as much as possible; to maintain appropriate distance from any member of the household who has been out of the residence in the previous 14 days; and, if leaving the home, to implement social distancing and to practice good hygiene, environmental cleanliness, and sanitation.
In providing or obtaining essential services or reopened services, people and businesses should follow the minimum standard health protocols recommended by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), found at www.dshs.texas.gov/coronavirus, and should implement social distancing, work from home if possible, and practice good hygiene, environmental cleanliness, and sanitation. This includes also following, to the extent not inconsistent with the DSHS minimum standards, the Guidelines from the President and the CDC, as well as other CDC recommendations. Individuals are encouraged to wear appropriate face coverings, but no jurisdiction can impose a civil or criminal penalty for failure to wear a face covering.
Abbott said his new guidelines supersede any local orders, but still encourages Texans to abide by CDC safe distancing measures.
April 23, Update
Dallas County's April 23 Revised Stay-at-Home Order makes the following changes:
- Extends the Order until May 15, 2020.
- Removes elective surgery language to be consistent with Governor Abbott's recent GA-15 Order.
- Adds language on “Reopened Services” to be consistent with Governor Abbott's recent GA-16 Order and includes visiting “reopened services” as an allowable activity under the relevant sections of Dallas County's Order. The social distancing and hygiene requirements for Reopened Services were issued by the Texas Department of State Health Services and this Order incorporates the State’s requirements.
- Updates language on religious and worship services to be consistent with the Governor’s Order.
- Allows auto dealers showrooms to be open.
- Requires schools to be closed for the remainder of the 2019 – 2020 school year to be consistent with the Governor’s Order.
- Exempts CARE Act Payments from garnishment, except for garnishment for child support payments.
The latest report from the Dallas County Health and Human Services indicates that the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Addison remains at 15.
April 18, 2020 Update
Dallas County has issued an amended Stay-At-Home order. The changes are as follows:
- Allows stores that sell fabric to operate for the sole purpose of selling school supplies and fabric and other supplies needed to make cloth coverings and masks (page 6).
- Adds language stating that the failure to wear a cloth covering cannot result in any civil or criminal fines or penalties (page 8).
A new report from the Dallas County Health and Human Services indicates that the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Addison is now 15.
April 16, 2020 Update
Dallas County issued an amended Stay-At-Home order today that requires people over the age of two to wear some form of covering over their nose and mouth, such as a homemade mask, scarf, bandana or handkerchief, when patronizing an essential business or using public transportation.
The order also requires that, to the greatest extent possible, all non-medical employees who work at an essential business or perform services that are exempt under the Stay at Home Order wear face coverings over their noses and mouths while performing their work. An owner or operator of an essential business may refuse admission or service to any individual who fails to wear a face covering.
The order goes into effect on Saturday, April 18.
Dallas County has shared some FAQs on cloth face coverings, but also reminds the public that wearing a face covering is not a substitute for maintaining social distancing and hand washing.
April 9, 2020 Update
Dallas County has amended the Stay at Home Order to include the following changes:
- Places restrictions on short-term rentals
- Prohibits door-to-door solicitation
April 7, 2020 Update
Dallas County has amended the Stay at Home Order to add the following:
- Establishes rules for financial institutions and realtors to follow when conducting business in Dallas County, including safety standards.
- Establishes safety rules for common carriers, motor carriers, private carriers, shippers, delivery services, moving companies and contract carriers that load or unload cargo, supplies, equipment or goods at any point located in Dallas County.
Dallas County Health and Human Services is reporting that the Town of Addison currently has 13 confirmed cases of COVID-19. You can get more details on their website.
April 3, 2020 Update
At the April 3 Dallas County Commissioners Court meeting, the commissioners voted to extend the current declaration of local Public Health Emergency until May 20. A Public Health Emergency declaration authorizes the county judge to issue a Stay at Home Order. The original Stay at Home Order issued by Dallas County was set to expire on Friday, April 3. They have extended the order until April 30.
According to Dallas County Health and Human Services, there are nine cases of COVID-19 in Addison.
April 2, 2020 Update
Another Dallas County amended Public Health Emergency order went into effect on April 2. This order does the following:
- Adds safety rules for manufacturers and distributors.
- Caps late fees for rent at $15/month.
- Requires employees of essential businesses to telecommute when possible
- Prohibits employers from requiring a negative COVID test or physician note before recovered an employee can go back to work. This provision is to prevent placing an additional burden on healthcare systems.
- Clarifies that limits on purchases of toilet paper and other essential items do not apply to Essential Businesses and Government Offices.
March 31, 2020 Update
Dallas County's latest amended order does the following:
- Added Laboratory Reporting Language: all public, private, and commercial laboratories operating within Dallas County and performing CVID-19 testing shall report by 5:00 p.m. each day for the prior 24-hour period: the number of COVID-19 tests performed and the number of positive COVID-19 tests.
- Added Safety Rules for Essential Retailers: all essential retail establishments, including grocery stores, gas stations, and pet supplies stores must follow the safety rules set out in Exhibit A
- Added language clarifying that COVID-19 causes property loss or damage. a. This clarification helps trigger business interruption insurance.
March 29, 2020 Update
Dallas County recently issued another amended Public Health Emergency Order effective March 29 at 11:59pm that addresses price gouging, safety provisions for contractors and travel restrictions, among others.
To date, the Town of Addison's orders have mirrored those of Dallas County. Because of the rapidly changing environment, Addison will no longer create its own amended orders and will rely on the Dallas County orders from this point forward.
You can report violations to the public safety non-emergency number at 972-450-7156. Please be aware that the Addison Police Department will prioritize its enforcement efforts.
Below is a summary of the changes:
Added “Minimum Basic Operations” language that allows non-essential businesses to do the following:
- The minimum necessary activities to maintain the value of the business's inventory, ensure security, process payroll and employee benefits, or for related functions.
- The minimum necessary activities to facilitate employees of the business being able to continue to work remotely from their residences.
Added “Essential Travel” language that includes travel for any of the following purposes:
- Travel related to the provision of or access to Essential Activities, Essential Governmental Functions, Essential Businesses, Essential Critical Infrastructure, and Minimum Basic Operation;
- Travel to care for elderly, minors, dependents, persons with disabilities, or other vulnerable persons;
- Travel to or from educational institutions for purposes of receiving materials for distance learning, for receiving meals, and any other related services;
- Travel to return to a place of residence from outside the jurisdiction;
- Travel required by law enforcement or court order;
- Travel by church staff or clergy for the purpose of production of remote delivery of religious services and other ministries requiring travel;
- Travel related to attending a funeral service; or
- Travel required for non-residents to return to their place of residence outside the County.
Added Safety Provisions for Contractors:
- The Order classified construction for public works, residential, commercial, and schools as critical infrastructure. Elective additions and maintenance are prohibited.
- All employers involved in construction activity must follow the requirements set forth in the COVID-19 Safety Recommendations issued by the Construction Industry Safety Coalition.
Added Prohibition on Price Gouging. No person shall sell any of the following goods or services for more than the regular retail price the person charged for the goods or services on March 16, 2020:
- Groceries, beverages, toilet articles, and ice;
- Restaurant, cafeteria, and boarding-house meals; and
- Medicine, pharmaceutical and medical equipment, and supplies.
Dallas County Commissioners Court has a special meeting scheduled for Friday, April 3 at 9am to discuss the extension of the current order. You can watch the meeting on the Dallas County website.
March 25, 2020 Update
Dallas County has issued an amended order that went into effect at 9pm on Tuesday, March 24 that clarifies some langage related to essential businesses, but also adds enforcement language that will allow the Dallas County Sheriff’s Office, the Dallas County Fire Marshal’s Office, and other peace officers to enforce the order.
Here is a summary of the changes:
Added an enforcement provision: The Dallas County Sheriff’s Office, the Dallas County Fire Marshal’s Office, and other peace officers are authorized to enforce Dallas County's order. A violation of the order may be punishable through criminal or civil enforcement and is considered a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed $1,000 and/or confinement in jail for a term not to exceed 180 days.
Clarified that the following businesses are essential and exempt from the order:
- Payroll, accounting, and insurance companies
- Firearm and ammunition suppliers and retailers for purposes of safety and security
- Real estate and inspection services, but only for the purpose of title work and closing; open houses and showings are prohibited
Clarified the process for applying for an exemption: Any manufacturer who retools their business for the purpose of manufacturing and producing ventilators, masks, personal protective equipment, or any supply necessary for Essential Healthcare Operations may apply for an “essential business” exemption under this Order. Submit requests for an exemption to BusinessCOVID19@dallascounty.org
Mayor Chow has signed a Town order incorporating the County’s changes that took effect at 9pm on Tuesday, March 24 and will continue until terminated by law or further action by the Mayor or City Council.
March 24, 2020 Update
Dallas County has reported that there are 2 cases of COVID-19 in Addison. Dallas County does not share where these residents live, but this reinforces the need for our community to follow the shelter in place order. You can find out more details local coronavirus cases on the Dallas County Health and Human Services website at : https://www.dallascounty.org/departments/dchhs/2019-novel-coronavirus.php.
March 22, 2020 Update
Dallas County Orders Residents to Shelter in Place
Dallas County has issued an amended order effective at 11:59 pm on Monday, March 23 until Friday, April 3 that requires all individuals anywhere in Dallas County to shelter in place – that is, stay at home – except for certain essential activities and work to provide essential business and government services or perform essential public infrastructure construction, including housing.
To the extent individuals are using shared or outdoor spaces, they must maintain social distancing of at least six feet from any other person when they are outside their residence. Residents may leave their residences only for essential activities, or to provide or perform essential governmental functions or operate essential businesses. Non-essential businesses may continue operations as long as employees and contractors are working from home.
Restaurants will still be allowed to offer drive thru, takeout and delivery.
The order defines essential businesses as:
- Essential health care services
- Essential government functions
- Essential infrastructure
- Essential retail (including grocery stores)
- Providers of basic necessities to economically disadvantaged population
- Essential services necessary to maintain operations of residences or other essential businesses
- News media
- Financial operations
Please read the order carefully to see how your business will be impacted.
Mayor Chow has signed a Town order incorporating the County’s changes that will take effect on 11:59 pm on Monday, March 23 and continue until terminated by law or further action by the Mayor or City Council.
March 21, 2020 Update
Dallas County has issued an amended order with new restrictions effective 11:59 pm on Saturday, 3/21 until Friday, 4/3 at 11:59 pm. In addition to the restrictions already in place, the following is a summary of the new restrictions in the amender order:
The following businesses are required to close immediately:
- Nail salons;
- Hair salons;
- Barber shops;
- Beauty salons;
- Hair removal services;
- Spas;
- Tattoo and piercing parlors; and
- All other non-medical, personal care services that cannot be provided while maintaining appropriate social distance
The amended order also prohibits all elective medical, surgical, and dental procedures anywhere in Dallas County. Hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, dental offices, and other medical facilities are directed to identify procedures that are deemed "elective" by assessing which procedures can be postponed or canceled based on patient risk considering the emergency need for redirection of resources to COVID-19 response.
It places a limit on the sale of toilet paper. All sales of toilet paper occurring in Dallas County are limited to the greater of: (a) twelve rolls per purchase or (b) one package per purchase.
The order requires individuals using shared outdoor spaces, such as public parks or trails, to maintain at least six feet of space from any other person at all times.
Mayor Chow has signed a Town order incorporating the County’s changes that will take effect on 11:59 pm on Saturday, 3/21 and continue until terminated by law or further action by the Mayor or City Council.
March 20, 2020 Update
Addison Closes Town Offices to the Public as of 5pm on Friday, March 20
In a continuing effort to stop the spread of the coronavirus pandemic, all Town of Addison facilities, including Town Hall, the Finance Department, Municipal Court, the Service Center, and the Addison TreeHouse will close to in-person services at 5 p.m. Friday, March 20.
For now, offices will remain staffed, but closed to public traffic until at least Monday, April 6. This date could be extended, depending on developments with the COVID-19 outbreak. Residents should call facilities / departments directly to conduct business
Emergency services will not be interrupted. The Addison Police, Animal Control, Fire, and Public Works Departments are fully staffed and have protocols in place to protect first responders so they can continue to serve the Addison Community.
Find a list closures and changes here.
Find a list closures and changes here.
Addison City Council Holds Emergency Special Meeting
At an Emergency Special Meeting on Friday, March 20, the Addison City Council extended Mayor Joe Chow's March 13 Public Health Emergency Declaration Order until it is terminated by law or by action of the Mayor or Council in response to the growing concerns about the spread of COVID-19. Mayor Chow has amended the order twice this week in response to changes by Dallas County. Since this is a rapidly changing situation, Council plans to revisit the situation as needed.
March 19, 2020 Update
Today, Gov. Abbott announced state-wide restaurant restrictions similar to those imposed by Dallas County on March 16. All restaurants throughout the state of Texas will be limited to take-out and delivery beginning Saturday morning. The State’s order will remain in place until April 3.
Dallas County commissioner’s have also extended their current Public Health Emergency order until 11:59pm on April 3. They plan to revisit the situation as needed, so this is subject to change.
The Addison City Council has scheduled an emergency meeting for 5pm on Friday, March 20 to discuss extending its Public Health Emergency Declaration. In accordance with CDC social distancing guidelines, the community is encouraged to watch the meeting online here. Opportunities for public comment will still take place at the beginning of the meeting. Members of the public who would like to participate remotely can call this toll-free dial-in number: 877.853.5247; Enter Meeting ID: 409.327.0683#, and select # when prompted to enter a participant ID.
March 18, 2020 Update
Dallas County Limits Community and Recreational Gatherings
Dallas County announced tonight that it has issued another amendment to its March 12 Public Health Emergency Declaration Order that prohibits any social gatherings such as parties, backyard barbecues, social events, sporting events, and other gatherings. Private facilities, such as county clubs, may still operate their outdoor facilities, such as golf or tennis courts, but must limit indoor activities, such as their card rooms and similar amenities to 10 people or less. The order also limits community gatherings, including weddings, religious services, funerals, to less than 50 people.
You can view Addison’s amended order here.
Dallas County commissioners have a meeting scheduled for Thursday, March 19 at 4:25 pm to vote on whether to extend this order. Once that decision has been made, we will share the information with the community. To stay informed, you can follow us on social media:
Town of Addison Facebook
Visit Addison Facebook
Town of Addison Twitter
Visit Addison Twitter
Please continue to practice social distancing and follow CDC prevention guidelines.
March 16, 2020 Update
Dallas County Limits Restaurants, Including Those in Addison, to Take Out and Delivery
Today, Dallas County announced that restaurants (with or without drive-in or drive-through services) and microbreweries, micro-distilleries, or wineries may only provide take out, delivery, or drive-through services as allowed by law. What this means is that restaurants will not be able to allow patrons to dine in their establishments. The County is also requiring that bars, lounges, taverns, or arcades and private clubs close until the order expires. Lastly it is reducing the threshold for community gatherings from 500 to 50.
This amended order goes into effect at 11:59 pm on March 16 and will remain in effect until 11am on March 20.
Because Addison is in Dallas County, this order extends to all Addison gatherings and establishments. The Town of Addison is deeply concerned about the global spreading of illness caused by COVID-19. As a good community partner, we want to do what we can to help prevent and control this contagious illness. You can read Addison's amended order here.
If you have any specific questions, please email environmentalhealth@addisontx.gov or contact Dallas County
March 13 Update
Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins declared a local public health emergency in Dallas County for seven days beginning on Friday, March 13 at 11am and ending on March 20 at 11am (unless otherwise extended) prescribed by state law.
This decision was made because at least one of the presumptive positive coronavirus cases in Dallas County is believed to be the result of “community spread.” Most initial cases are linked to someone who has traveled to an area where the virus has infected people, or it is known that a person has been in contact with someone that has traveled from an area of infection. Community spread cases are cases of infection that have no known link to people that have been in an area with infected people.
In response to Judge Jenkins’ declaration, Addison Mayor Joe Chow declared a local disaster for public health emergency. Even though there are no confirmed cases in Addison, the Town is deeply concerned about the global spreading of the illness and is desirous to be good community partners to do what we can to help prevent and control COVID-19. In addition to the emergency declaration, the Town and County have issued an order regulating community gatherings.
In summary, the order:
- Prohibits community gatherings of 500 persons or more anywhere in Dallas County;
- Strongly recommends that people not attend events with more than 250 persons and that those events either be canceled or rescheduled; and
- Strongly urges high-risk individuals, as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cancel, reschedule, or not attend events that will likely have 10 or more people.
The order provides definitions and exceptions to help people understand the proper application of the order. You can view the full order here.
In response to the order, the Town is taking the following actions:
- Athletic Club: The Athletic Club will be closed from Saturday, March 14 – Saturday, March 28. All Athletic Club camps and classes will be canceled. As of now, we anticipate that the Club will reopen on Sunday, March 29 (subject to change).
- Outdoor exercise programs: Third-party outside exercise programs will be held at the discretion of the vendor. Please contact them directly.
- Addison Conference and Theatre Centre (ACTC): ACTC will be closed from Saturday, March 14 - Saturday, March 28. Please contact ACTC staff to reschedule programs.
- Special Events: We will continue to monitor the situation, but no changes have been made at this point.
You will continue to see Parks and Public Works crews out in the community maintaining the Town’s assets.
The Town of Addison is taking action to prevent the spread of COVID-19. We would like to encourage everyone to join us.
