Safer-At-Home Order FAQ
This Safer at Home order is no longer in effect. Return to the Covid-19 Information homepage for relevant and up-to-date announcements.
State of Florida Executive Order 20-91
When did the Governor's Executive Order take effect and how long will it last?
The Governor's Executive Order took effect Friday, April 3, 2020, at 12:01 a.m. and will last until 12:01 a.m. on Monday, May 4.
What does the Governor's Executive Order mean for me and my family?
You must stay at home except for obtaining or providing essential services or participating in essential activities.
Questions for Businesses & Faith Based Organizations
How do I know what qualifies as an essential service?
The complete list of essential services is located online on the Florida Disaster Website.
If my business if not an essential service, must I close the physical location to customers?
Yes, your business must close to customers if you are not an essential service.
May my business and its employees operate remotely and provide delivery of our product?
Yes, all businesses are encouraged to provide delivery or pickup and to take orders online or by telephone.
Does my business need a permit or other documentation to remain open?
No, you do not need a special permit or other documentation to remain open.
Are restaurants or other sellers of food or beverage permitted to continue takeout and delivery services?
Yes, you may continue to provide takeout and delivery services as long as you follow the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) guidance.
May churches, synagogues or other houses of worship hold services?
Yes, but the Center for Disease Control (CDC) encourages you to follow the special guidance for faith based organizations.
May childcare center remain open?
Yes, for employees working at businesses or operations that are essential services, to the extent those childcare centers are social distancing.
Questions for Residents
How do I know what qualifies as an essential service?
The complete list of essential services is located online on the Florida Disaster Website.
How do I know what qualifies as an essential activity?
The Governor's Executive Order lists the following as essential activities:
- Attending religious services conducted in churches, synagogues, and houses of worship.
- Participating in recreational activities (consistent with social distancing guidelines) such as walking, biking, hiking, fishing, hunting, running, or swimming.
- Taking care of pets.
- Caring for or otherwise assisting a loved one or friend.
The complete list can be found on the Florida Disaster Website.
May senior citizens and individuals with significant medical conditions leave their homes to go to the grocery store or pharmacy, or go for a walk, or go to work at an essential service?
Yes - they may leave their homes when necessary to obtain or provide essential services or conduct essential activities.
May I exercise outside or participate in recreational activities?
Yes, if your activities are consistent with social distancing guidelines.
Can I visit or travel to a family member?
Yes, if you are caring for or otherwise assisting them.
Local Governance & Enforcement
How is the Governor's Executive Order enforced?
Law Enforcement has been tasked with enforcing the Executive Order. Violating the Executive Order is a second-degree misdemeanor.
Do I need a special permit to leave my house if I am going to an essential services or essential activity?
No, a special permit is not required. Some businesses may provide letters to employees to clarify that their business is essential; however, it's not required.
Where can I report a business that violates the Governor's Executive Order?
You may report violations within the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office at 407-348-2222.