BALTIMORE, MD.  — Mayor Bernard C. “Jack” Young and Baltimore Police Commissioner Michael S. Harrison are reminding residents that starting today, at 5:00 p.m., all restaurants, bars, movie theaters and gyms will be closed to the public.

Restaurants may continue delivery and carryout services. Establishments are prohibited from gathering more than 50 people and are banned from dining-in. Drive-thru service at restaurants may continue.

“This is a global health emergency and I need everyone in Baltimore City to adjust to this new reality,” Mayor Bernard C. “Jack” Young said. “Our residents are now, literally, our public health officers and we need them all to protect each other by following best practices around social distancing to limit the spread of this virus. The best thing Baltimoreans can do today is to stay home and not expose themselves or their families to any unnecessary risk. Not all superheroes wear capes, some stay at home.”

The Baltimore Police Department in conjunction with the Baltimore City Health Department, the Baltimore City Fire Department and Board of Liquor License Commissioners will begin inspections and enforcement across Baltimore City tonight.

“The Baltimore Police Department is working in collaboration with the Social Club Task Force in supporting the Governor's Executive Order,” Commissioner Michael S. Harrison said. “We encourage residents to call 311 with any non-emergency related calls related to businesses or gatherings of crowds. We remain focused on keeping residents safe and will continue to work closely with our local partners to serve the residents to decrease the spread of COVID-19.”

If residents see a business operating in violation of the Governor’s Executive Order, they should report that to 311.