On April 18, San Bernardino County issued an updated health order, which clarifies several items contained within the order. The new order encompasses the original order and most of the subsequent orders and clarifications that have followed. The new order supersedes most previous orders relating to the COVID-19 pandemic.

While face coverings are required when out in public or working in essential business, they are not required for drivers traveling alone or with members of their households, unless they must lower their windows to interact with someone who is not a member of their household. Additionally, face coverings are not required for solitary outdoor activity or for members of the same household engaging in outdoor activity. If others are present, regardless of social distancing, a face cover is required. And businesses may refuse service to those without face coverings.

The order also states that there are no public gatherings allowed of two or more people. Though clarifies that individual cities and park operators have jurisdiction in managing parking areas, deciding whether they remain open, and ensuring safe social distancing. The order also clarifies that per the state’s declaration, drive-in worship services are allowed “as long as the individuals engaged in such services abide by physical distancing guidelines and refrain from direct and indirect physical touching of others.” San Bernardino County reversed their prior order banning drive-in services after the state declared them to be allowed. The decision may have also stemmed from lawsuits filed by local Riverside and San Bernardino County Churches naming Governor Newsom, Attorney General Xavier Becerra, and officials from San Bernadino County and Riverside County. Indoor religious gatherings are still not allowed.

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