County Increases Gathering Size Limits For Sporting Events

Hawaiʻi County has expanded outdoor gathering limits to 25 for organized sports at all outdoor county recreational facilities under the Big Island Mayor’s COVID-19 Emergency Rule No. 18, which was signed by Mayor Roth in concurrence with Governor Ige Monday, Oct. 4.

The rule also creates a mechanism for sporting organizers to apply for special event exemptions to allow for gathering sizes above the limit of 25 for organized sports, which includes spectators, pending proper COVID-19 mitigation protocols.

To be granted an event exemption, organizers must have the following:

• Reasonable means and methods to limit and enforce restrictions on the gathering including realistic, sufficient resources to implement such.
• Reasonable means to inform, and methods to ensure and enforce, physical distancing requirements for all persons present.
• Reasonable strategies for disinfection/sanitization of all common and high-touch surfaces.

“We are excited to get our keiki back onto the fields and into our open-air gyms safely,” said Mayor Mitch Roth. “Because of the work that everyone has been doing to slow the spread of COVID-19 in our communities, our numbers have seen a steady decline, and because of it, we believe that we can now make this transition in a way that is safest for our keiki and their families.”

The mayor’s COVID-19 Emergency Rule No. 18 went into effect Monday and will continue until Dec. 3, 2021, unless terminated or superseded by a separate proclamation, whichever occusr first. In addition, restaurants are reminded to follow all COVID-19 protocols, including ensuring that masks are worn at all times when not actively eating or drinking.

To submit formal requests for event exemptions at county recreational facilities, visit https://bit.ly/3oMmcRt.

The Department of Parks and Recreation will review all requests. The department will also help sporting organizers create COVID-19 mitigation plans on a case-by-case basis if needed. For any questions, contact the department at 808-961-8311.