City of Independence updates health guidelines for residents, businesses
February 19, 2021

City of Independence Mayor Eileen Weir, in consultation with Acting Health Director Christina Heinen, today issued updated health orders which will go into effect tonight at 12 a.m. on Feb. 20, 2021.

“Thanks to the consistent actions of our businesses and citizens, we have seen a decline in regional cases and hospitalizations related to COVID-19,” Mayor Weir said. “It is important to note we are not yet out of the woods and must continue to wear masks, social distance, wash our hands and stay home if we are sick. We are today taking steps to relax capacity limitations on religious gatherings, weddings, funerals and dining. We are carefully monitoring the situation and will provide further updates as needed.”

The City of Independence Health Department was recognized by the State of Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services as a Local Public Health Authority in early December.

Please find below an overview of the updated guidelines from the City of Independence:

• - Indoor and outdoor dining is limited to 50% capacity, however there is no limit on the size of parties of patrons.
• - Bars, restaurants and taverns may now remain open as permitted by their liquor license.
• - All gathering limits on faith services have been relaxed. Faith organizations are no longer required to submit a gathering protocol form but are asked to continue voluntarily wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and regularly washing their hands and shared surfaces.
• - Entertainment and recreational venues are no longer required to submit gathering protocol forms but must maintain the 50 percent capacity at their given venue. These venues can submit gathering protocol forms for proposed events with capacity greater than 50 percent for review.

Under these orders, businesses are responsible for the monitoring and compliance of Physical Distancing Requirements as defined in the order. Businesses found to be in violation of this order may be placed under a curfew restriction of 9 p.m., have their business license and any permits suspended or revoked, have charges filed against them, and/or have utilities terminated. The Health Director retains the right to respond to all complaints of non-compliance in any venue in order to provide education on the purpose, function, and importance of the Order.

You can read the full orders here.

Additionally, Independence residents can find updated information on regional vaccine registration and the State’s vaccine distribution plan at indep.us/vaccines. Residents are encouraged to register on every available list as they are eligible for vaccination under the State’s phases and tier guidelines.