City of Charleston Coronavirus Updates

UPDATE: January 14, 2022

Due to the continued high number of Covid-19 cases statewide, the city of Charleston will continue to ask all visitors to city offices and buildings to wear masks while inside, regardless of vaccination status. All city employees are also required to wear masks in indoor common areas and when unable to socially distance from others.


UPDATE: January 3, 2022

Due to the current rise of Covid-19 cases across the state, beginning Tuesday, January 4, 2022 all visitors to city offices and buildings will be asked to wear masks while inside, regardless of vaccination status. All city employees will also be required to wear masks in indoor common areas and when unable to socially distance from others.

City of Charleston officials continue to encourage everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated. The Omicron variant is proving to be highly transmissible, but recent lab studies show that boosters are affective against serious illness. Citizens who received their primary series at least six months ago should consider getting a booster if they have not already done so. The SCDHEC vaccine locator, https://vaxlocator.dhec.sc.gov/, is a useful tool for scheduling vaccine appointments.


UPDATE: September 3, 2021

Today, Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg sent the attached email to all city staff regarding the new COVID-19 vaccination policy for city employees and released the following statement:

“With new COVID-19 cases surging and the highly contagious delta variant now pervasive in our area, the city has implemented a new policy requiring its employees to get fully vaccinated against COVID-19. This is a critical step to protect the health and safety of those who serve our community and to ensure that we remain capable of providing essential city services.

“The CDC, DHEC and our local medical professionals have all been clear – these vaccines are safe and effective, and it’s incumbent upon us as public servants to lead by example and do everything in our power to protect our community. Put simply, widespread vaccination is the only way we can end this pandemic for good, and we’re proud to stand by other local governments who share that same goal.”


UPDATE: August 12, 2021

Last night at an emergency meeting, Charleston City Council passed a resolution strongly encouraging citizens and visitors to follow CDC guidance regarding the masking of children under the age of 12 and encouraging all citizens and visitors over the age of 12 to get vaccinated and heed guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the city of Charleston to reduce the risk and exposure to Covid-19 during the public health emergency and recovery.

View the full resolution, here: https://www.charleston-sc.gov/DocumentCenter/View/29854/Resolution-Encouraging-Masking-of-Children---August-11-2021.


UPDATE: August 10, 2021

Due to the rise in COVID-19 cases throughout the Charleston region and in consultation with the city’s COVID-19 Task Force, effective Wednesday, August 11, 2021, the city of Charleston will move back to Phase 3 of its Reopening Plan and reintroduce a range of protective measures designed to keep its citizens, employees and visitors safe. 

Among additional measures, face coverings will once again be required in all city buildings and facilities, and occupancy limits will be posted for all common areas until further notice. 

A full outline of Phase 3 and its corresponding protocols can be found here: http://innovate.charleston-sc.gov/covid/reignite/matrix.htm 

Additionally, with schools set to open next week, City Council will hold a special meeting tomorrow at 5 p.m. to discuss the current surge in COVID-19 cases, and to consider a resolution strongly encouraging citizens to follow all current CDC guidance regarding the masking of children under the age of twelve, and encouraging all citizens and visitors over the age of twelve to get vaccinated in order to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The agenda for the meeting, which includes a copy of the resolution in full, can be viewed here: https://www.charleston-sc.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08112021-6763 

The meeting will be livestreamed via the city’s YouTube channel.


UPDATE: April 14, 2021

Last night, Charleston City Council passed an Executive Order Continuing the Declaration of State of Emergency in Response to the COVID-19 Virus Outbreak through May 13, 2021 and voted to Extend Certain Emergency Ordinances Related to COVID-19 until May 14, 2021 unless terminated or replaced prior to the expiration. The ordinances that were extended are the following:


UPDATE: March 10, 2021

Last night, Charleston City Council passed an Executive Order Continuing the Declaration of State of Emergency in Response to the COVID-19 Virus Outbreak through April 14, 2021 and voted to Extend Certain Emergency Ordinances Related to COVID-19 until April 14, 2021 unless terminated or replaced prior to the expiration. The ordinances that were extended are the following:


UPDATE: March 6, 2021

Consistent with Gov. McMaster's Order, City Mask Ordinance Remains in Effect in Bars and Restaurants

In response to inquiries, city of Charleston attorney Susan Herdina today issued the following statement:

"As Gov. McMaster's latest order makes clear, local mask ordinances continue to apply in local jurisdictions. Therefore, the city of Charleston's mask requirement remains in effect, including in our bars and restaurants." 


UPDATE: January 12, 2021

Tonight, Charleston City Council passed an Executive Order Continuing the Declaration of State of Emergency in Response to the COVID-19 Virus Outbreak through March 12, 2021 and voted to Extend Certain Emergency Ordinances Related to COVID-19 until March 12, 2021 unless terminated or replaced prior to the expiration. The ordinances that were extended are the following:


UPDATE: January 11, 2021


UPDATE: January 11, 2021

City of Charleston to Co-Host Stimulus Webinar for Small Businesses

 The city of Charleston Business Services Division has partnered with the U.S. Small Business Administration and Small Business Development Center to host a free webinar, The Stimulus Round 2: What Small Businesses Need to Know, to provide important information regarding the second round of stimulus funding for small businesses in the Charleston area. The webinar will be hosted via Zoom on Wednesday, January 27, 2021 from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. 

Why it matters: On December 20, 2020, Congress approved a new $900 billion COVID relief package, which includes an additional $284 billion for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for small businesses. This new package provides additional funding for those businesses that did not receive PPP money in the first round, particularly minority and women-owned businesses. 

This webinar will provide details on who can apply for stimulus funding, how much businesses are eligible for, how to apply for forgiveness, important deadlines and available local resources, as well as an opportunity for attendees to ask questions. 

Learn more: For more information, please contact the city’s Business Services Division at (843) 697-5273 or authc@charleston-sc.gov.


UPDATE: January 8, 2021

In-Person Court Proceedings Suspended Statewide Due to Rise in COVID-19 Cases

 Due to the rise in COVID-19 cases throughout the state, the Supreme Court of South Carolina has announced that all in-person court proceedings statewide are suspended until further notice, beginning Monday, January 11, 2021.

This suspension is subject to limited exceptions, including bond hearings and emergency matters like restraining orders, orders of protection and vacating of bench warrants. 

Whenever possible during this suspension, hearings and non-jury trials will be conducted virtually. 

Citizens whose cases are impacted by this change can call Court Operations at 843-724-7460 for further information.


UPDATE: December 30, 2020

Today, Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg released the following statement with regard to New Year’s Eve celebrations:

“Thanks to continued responsible practices by our citizens, Charleston has so far been spared the worst of this second COVID-19 wave. But now is not the time to let our guards down. While we’re all anxious to ring in 2021 after a historically difficult year, it’s critically important that we continue to practice good judgment by washing our hands, wearing our masks and avoiding large social gatherings. The time for celebrations will come, but right now our focus must remain on keeping our citizens healthy, and the best way to do that this New Year’s Eve is to celebrate responsibly at home.”

Mayor Tecklenburg’s remarks came on the same day that South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) Epidemiologist Dr. Linda Bell also asked citizens to celebrate at home to prevent an additional surge. 

Earlier today, DHEC reported 2,323 new confirmed COVID-19 cases and 42 new confirmed COVID-19 deaths statewide. To date, there have been 280,024 confirmed cases and 4,846 confirmed deaths due to COVID-19 in the state of South Carolina. 

For more from DHEC, please visit https://scdhec.gov/covid19.


UPDATE: December 23, 2020:


UPDATE: November 23, 2020:



UPDATE: October 28, 2020:

With coronavirus cases on the rise and Halloween approaching, the city of Charleston is asking citizens to stay safe by following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines while celebrating the holiday this year. 

First and most important, trick or treaters should practice the three "W"s: wash your hands, watch your distance and wear a mask. 

In addition, when wearing a costume, please remember that a costume mask is not a substitute for a cloth mask. According to the CDC, “a costume mask should not be used unless it is made of two or more layers of breathable fabric that covers the mouth and nose and doesn’t leave gaps around the face.”

And, of course, anyone who may have COVID-19 or may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 should not participate in activities or give candy out to trick-or-treaters.

This year, the CDC also recommends a number of low-risk alternatives to trick-or-treating, such as carving pumpkins and displaying them, decorating the house, doing a scavenger hunt where children look for Halloween themed items while walking outdoors at a safe distance and more.

For more ideas on how to safely celebrate the holiday, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays.html?fbclid=IwAR1Z3zmqrUoF3pe-eqphl7oIfy_3SgeUsYsFo-d9RV8aBipnmjveUZ7RY-I#halloween..


UPDATE: October 6, 2020:

This morning, as part of the city of Charleston’s flu shot program for city employees, Mayor John Tecklenburg received his flu shot and encouraged citizens throughout the Lowcountry to do the same.  Mayor Tecklenburg Flu Shot

Why flu shots matter, especially this year: With the likelihood of both influenza and COVID-19 viruses spreading this year, receiving the annual flu vaccine is more important than ever to protect against co-infection and what experts are calling a “twindemic.”

Not only will receiving this year’s flu vaccine help to protect against the virus itself, but it will also help to reduce the burden on healthcare systems that continue to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and preserve medical resources for the care of COVID-19 patients. 

Quick facts:

  • The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older receive their annual flu vaccine by the end of October, before flu season begins. 
  • According to DHEC and the CDC, flu vaccination is particularly important for those at increased risk of complications from the flu, including young children, adults 50 years and older, pregnant women and those with certain chronic medical conditions.
  • Social distancing, hand washing and mask wearing remain critical in mitigating the risk of infection.

By the numbers:

Bottom line:

  • Mayor John Tecklenburg said, “There’s no question that the best way to protect yourself against the flu is to receive your vaccination every year. This year, with both viruses out there, it’s even more critical that we receive our vaccinations and do everything we can to keep ourselves, our loved ones and our communities healthy as we head into flu season.”


UPDATE: September 30, 2020:

City of Charleston, Charleston LDC to Announce COVID-19 Small Business Relief Fund



UPDATE: August 5, 2020, 10:30 a.m.:

Due to the ongoing situation related to COVID-19 in South Carolina, City Gallery will re-open with adjusted hours and new safety precautions on Thursday, August 6, 2020. 

Exhibition viewing will be offered Thursdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Guests will be required to reserve free tickets for admission prior to their visit. Tickets can be reserved by calling the City Gallery at 843-958-6484 during normal business hours or by visiting the City Gallery website: http://citygalleryatwaterfrontpark.com/about-us/

All guests and staff members will be required to wear face coverings, and staff will monitor circulation through exhibition areas to ensure safe social distancing and adherence to all other CDC protocols related to COVID-19. 

Sanitizer stations will be available to patrons throughout the gallery, and enhanced cleaning protocols will be implemented by staff hourly in all City Gallery spaces each day. 

The following protocols will apply to all City Gallery visitors:

  • In order to allow for safe social distancing, City Gallery is limiting both the number of tickets offered each hour and the number of guests that may enter at the same time.
  • Online reservations are limited to groups of 6 or less. When entering, no more than 3 guests may check in at one time. 
  • Visitors without a reservation may request the next available entry time at the door.
  • Once inside the gallery, visitors may take as much time as they desire to browse the exhibit, provided all protocols are followed.

Together at a Distance, the current exhibition hosted by City Gallery and on view through August 29, presents new works by 31 local professional artists. These artists, all of whom have previously exhibited in group settings in Charleston, have assembled a body of 88 works in a variety of media and styles, with the exhibition highlighting the work of each individual artist in dialogue with that of their peers.

Exhibiting artists include: Sabine Avcalade, Tommy Beaver, Elaine Berlin, Sherry Browne, Christine Crosby, Tom Curtis, Diane Dean, Alvin Glen, Bob Graham, Stephanie Shuler Hamlet, Scott Henderson, Katherine Hester, Peggy Howe, Kellie Jacobs, Carla Johannesmeyer, Daryl Knox, Jennifer Koach, Madison Latimer, Gerardo Leccese, Alicia Leeke, Thomas Michael Meddaugh, John Michiels, Dianne Munkittrick, Tate Nation, Michael Nocher, Chris Rutigliano, Amelia Whaley, Colleen Wiessman, Keith Wilkie, Lisa Willits, and Cat Wondergem.


UPDATE: July 16, 2020, 1:30 p.m.:

The city of Charleston, in partnership with the Shifa Clinic and Lab 24, will offer free COVID-19 testing to members of the Charleston community from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Monday, July 20, 2020 at St. Julian Devine Community Center, located at 1 Cooper Street.

Testing will be conducted by appointment only and those receiving testing must turn in a completed intake form upon arrival. To make an appointment and complete the required intake form, please visit: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60b0d45aba72ba7fa7-free.

Face coverings will be required at the testing site.


UPDATE: July 14, 2020, 7:30 p.m.:

At their meeting tonight, Charleston City Council passed a set of additional emergency measures (here) to protect the community against the spread of COVID-19, which will go into effect citywide on July 15, 2020. 

These include:
• Amended mask requirement clarifying that it applies to all areas of the city
• Increased penalties for noncompliance
• 50% capacity in bars and restaurants
• No amplified music after 9 p.m.
• Provision allowing businesses to refuse to serve customers who fail to wear mask after being informed of the ordinance and provided a copy 
• Businesses will be subject to penalties for failure to comply with capacity and music restrictions
• Added enforcement by the Fire Marshal, Charleston Police Department and Building Inspections Division, in addition to Livability Code Enforcement Officers

The following regulations will remain in effect throughout the city of Charleston:
• No alcohol service after 11 p.m.
• Restrictions on senior and correctional facilities
• Movie theaters and public venues closed
• Authority granted to law enforcement to dispense gatherings of 3 or more
• Masks are required in all public indoor spaces and within 6 feet of others outdoors
• No social gatherings of 10 or more on city property
• Retail businesses are required to post social distancing signage and one-way aisle markings



UPDATE: July 14, 2020,  12:30 p.m.:

Tonight, Charleston City Council will consider additional emergency measures to protect the community against the spread of COVID-19.

If passed, the following added regulations would go into effect citywide, beginning July 15, 2020:

  • Amended mask requirement clarifying that it applies to all areas of the city
  • Increased penalties for noncompliance
  • 50% capacity in bars and restaurants
  • No amplified music after 9 p.m.
  • Provision allowing businesses to refuse to serve customers who fail to wear mask after being informed of the ordinance and provided a copy
  • Businesses will be subject to penalties for failure to comply with capacity and music restrictions
  • Added enforcement by the Fire Marshal, Charleston Police Department and Building Inspections Division, in addition to Livability Code Enforcement Officers

The following regulations will remain in effect throughout the city of Charleston:

  • No alcohol service after 11 p.m.
  • Restrictions on senior and correctional facilities
  • Movie theaters and public venues closed
  • Authority granted to law enforcement to dispense gatherings of 3 or more
  • Masks are required in all public indoor spaces and within 6 feet of others outdoors
  • No social gatherings of 10 or more on city property
  • Retail businesses are required to post social distancing signage and one-way aisle markings

Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg said, "With COVID-19 cases continuing to rise at an alarming rate, we need to do everything in our power to flatten this curve before our hospitals are overwhelmed and another shutdown becomes unavoidable. And the only way to do that is if we keep working together and keep following the three ’W’s: wash your hands, watch your distance and wear a mask."

City Council will meet at 5 p.m. via Zoom. To attend virtually, dial 1 (929) 205-6099 and enter access code 912096416 when prompted. The meeting will also be streamed live on the city’s YouTube page, linked here.


UPDATE: July 10, 2020, 12:30 p.m.:

Due to the ongoing situation related to COVID-19 in South Carolina, the Charleston Farmers Market will open as an essentials only market on Wednesday, July 15, 2020 from 4 to 7 p.m. in the VIP parking lot adjacent to Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park, located at 360 Fishburne Street.

Free parking will be available in the lot across the street from the market.

Vendors and patrons will be required to wear masks and maintain social distancing throughout the event, and to follow all other CDC protocols related to COVID-19.

Similar to the West Ashley Farmers Market, this essentials-only format will feature farmer and grower vendors exclusively, including R. Fields Farm, O. Freeman Farm, R & R Acres and Simmons Farm. No prepared food vendors, entertainment or other activities will be included.

Sanitation stations will be set up throughout the market, as well as signage designed to guide customers safely from vendor to vendor.

Future market dates will be announced via the Charleston Farmers Market Facebook (@CharlestonFarmersMarket), Twitter (@charlestonfarms) and Instagram (@charlestonfarms) pages as they are set.

The West Ashley Essentials Market is set to return to Ackerman Park (55 Sycamore Avenue) on Saturday, July 11, 2020 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Additional details can be found on the West Ashley Farmers Market Facebook (@WestAshleyFarmersMarket), Twitter (@WAshleyFarms) and Instagram (@washleyfarmersmarket) pages.


UPDATE: June 30, 2020, 5:00 p.m.:

The emergency ordinance requiring face coverings in public areas throughout the city of Charleston to reduce risk of exposure to COVID-19 goes into effect at 12 a.m., Wednesday, July 1, 2020.

Answers to many frequently asked questions regarding the ordinance can be found in the FAQ linked here.

Free 8.5 x 11 informational flyers regarding proper use of face coverings and other COVID-19 related precautions are available for download here to be displayed in local businesses.

As a reminder, the ordinance is a fine-only offense and will be enforced primarily via educational efforts by civilian officers with the city’s Livability Department. It will remain in effect for a period of 60 days, unless otherwise terminated.


UPDATE: June 28, 2020, 4:15 p.m.:

Earlier today, the city of Charleston Recreation Department learned of one employee at Bees Landing Recreation Center who has tested positive for COVID-19. While the employee has not been in the workplace since Tuesday of last week, the facility has closed and will remain closed throughout the coming week to allow for thorough disinfecting.

The employee has self-quarantined, and the city is conducting a thorough contact tracing effort to determine if additional employees will require testing before being allowed to return to work.

The city of Charleston’s other pools and summer day camps are not affected by this temporary closure and will continue to operate normally.


UPDATE: June 26, 2020, 4:00 p.m.:

Earlier today, the city of Charleston Recreation Department learned of one employee at Hazel Parker Playground who has tested positive for COVID-19. While the employee has not been in the workplace since Friday of last week, the facility has closed and will remain closed through the weekend to allow for thorough disinfecting.

Normal operations are expected to resume on Monday, July 6, 2020.

The affected employee has self-quarantined, and the city is conducting a thorough contact tracing effort to determine if additional employees will require testing before being allowed to return to work.

The city of Charleston’s other pools and summer day camps are not affected by this temporary closure and will continue to operate normally.


UPDATE: June 25, 2020, 7:00 p.m.:

On Thursday, June 25, 2020, the city of Charleston Recreation Department was notified of two employees at the James Island Recreation Complex (JIRC) who had tested positive for COVID-19. These employees have not been in the workplace since Friday of last week, but as a precaution, the JIRC has closed and will remain closed for the remainder of the week to allow for thorough disinfecting.

Due to this closure, all summer day camps, swimming pool sessions and gymnastics lessons at JIRC are canceled through the weekend. Operations are expected to resume on Monday, June 29, 2020.

The affected employees have self-quarantined, and the city is in the process of conducting a thorough contact tracing effort to determine if additional employees will require testing before being allowed to return to work.

The city of Charleston’s other pools and summer day camps are not affected by this temporary closure and will continue to operate normally.

City of Charleston Recreation Director Laurie Yarborough said, “As always, the safety and wellbeing of those who use our recreation facilities is our number one priority. We will continue to implement all DHEC and CDC guidelines on proper cleaning protocols and preventative measures to protect our patrons and staff members at recreation sites citywide.”


UPDATE: June 25, 2020, 6:30 p.m.:

At their meeting this evening, Charleston City Council approved an emergency ordinance requiring face coverings in public areas throughout the city of Charleston to reduce risk of exposure to COVID-19, effective July 1, 2020.

The ordinance is a fine-only offense and will be enforced primarily via educational efforts by civilian officers with the city’s Livability Department. It will remain in effect for a period of 60 days, unless otherwise terminated.

Also during tonight’s meeting, City Council voted to extend the COVID-19 state of emergency currently in effect in the city of Charleston until July 15, 2020.

Additionally, several other emergency ordinances related to COVID-19 have been extended, including the temporary suspension of business license penalties.

The city’s temporary suspension of plastic bag ban enforcement has not been extended, and enforcement will resume on July 1, 2020.


UPDATE: June 25, 2020, 4:30 p.m.:

Due to the ongoing situation related to COVID-19 in South Carolina, the West Ashley Farmers Market will open as an essentials only market on Saturday, June 27, 2020 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Ackerman Park, located at 55 Sycamore Avenue.

Vendors and patrons will be required to wear masks and maintain social distancing throughout the event, and to follow all other CDC protocols related to COVID-19.

This new, essentials-only format will feature farmer and grower vendors exclusively, including Gruber Farms, Robert Fields Farm and Oliver Freeman Farm. No prepared food vendors, entertainment or other activities will be included.

Sanitation stations will be set up throughout the park, as well as signage designed to guide customers safely from vendor to vendor.

Future market dates will be announced via the West Ashley Farmers Market Facebook (@WestAshleyFarmersMarket), Twitter (@WAshleyFarms) and Instagram (@washleyfarmersmarket) pages once finalized.


UPDATE: June 5, 2020, 2:30 p.m.:

The city of Charleston Municipal Court will return to its regular schedule of conducting traffic and criminal bench trials on Monday, June 8, 2020. No jury trial cases are being scheduled at this time.

Due to the social distancing guidelines in place related to COVID-19, the Municipal Court has implemented the following courtroom procedures:

  • No one who is coughing, feverish or ill may enter the courtroom.
  • Defendants must wear a mask or face covering during court proceedings, unless the Judge allows them to remove it.
  • A limited supply of masks will be available on-site. If a defendant does not have a mask, their case will be continued (one time) and they will receive written notice of their new court date prior to leaving the courthouse.
  • Defendants must check in with a bailiff at the designated table located in the former DMV space, providing their name and cellphone number, and may only enter the courtroom at their designated time for court.
  • Cases will be grouped together per officer.
  • Unless someone is instructed to enter the courtroom, they will remain in the designated area until courtroom personnel either call or text them in reference to their case.
  • Witnesses/Victims should remain outside the courtroom until called in by courtroom personnel.
  • The courtroom will be opened to those with ongoing judicial proceedings only. If individuals are not a party to a case, they must remain outside the courtroom building.
  • Defendants with children will be instructed to see court personnel for further instructions. The judge will be informed of these cases and they will be handled first.
  • All defendants and/or parties to a case will be instructed to sit on the benches marked X. Courtroom personnel will ensure defendants are seated in designated areas.
  • Defendants will sit at the table or stand closest to the podium near the jury box, and plaintiffs/prosecution will sit at the table farthest from the jury box.
  • Defendants will not approach the bench or move beyond counsel tables without permission from the court.
  • Door props will be used for hallway doors that lead to courtrooms on each floor to reduce unnecessary door handling.
  • Violators of these procedures will be asked to leave and may be held in contempt of court.


UPDATE: May 29, 2020, 5:00 p.m.:

In order to support local businesses and safely stimulate economic recovery, effective Monday, June 1, 2020 and for the remainder of the year, metered parking enforcement will cease after 6 p.m. citywide. In conjunction with this change, regular parking meter enforcement will resume between the hours of 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Additionally, to support food and beverage employees returning to work, parking in CARTA’s park-and-ride HOP lot, located at 995 Morrison Drive, will be offered for free for the remainder of the year.

Mayor John Tecklenburg said, "It’s critical that we continue to do everything we can to support our small and locally-owned businesses as they work to reopen safely. These free parking initiatives are a small but important part of our larger effort to keep Charleston healthy and strong throughout this unprecedented time."


UPDATE: May 19, 2020, 3:30 p.m.:

In consultation with area medical professionals, city of Charleston summer day camps provided by the Recreation Department are scheduled to begin on June 15th and run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Drop-off hours will be from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., and pick-up will take place from 5:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Drop-off and pick-up will occur outside of each facility and each camp will have a site-specific drop-off and pick-up routine in place.

In order to maintain proper social distancing and keep all camp participants and staff members safe, all city day camps will adhere to the following protocols:

  • Camp facilities will be closed to the public during camp hours, with only city staff and participants allowed inside during this time.
  • Camp participants will be placed in smaller daily groups of six to eight children and one staff member, and will remain together for the duration of each day.
  • Each group will be assigned to a specific area within the facility, which will include all needed supplies, table and chairs, and equipment.
  • Field trips and visits to other camps have been cancelled for the summer session.
  • All activities will be restructured to incorporate proper social distancing, with no large group games or interactions with other groups occurring.
  • Camp participants will be required to bring their own water bottles and lunches daily. Concessions (where applicable) will include prepackaged items only. No sharing of food will be permitted.
  • Participants must bring hand sanitizer.
  • Temperatures of all children and staff will be taken daily, and staff members working with children will be required to wear masks.
  • Thorough hand washing and sanitation will be built into camp rotations and required multiple times daily. Staff will be trained on proper hand washing techniques. Parents are asked to review handwashing techniques with their children prior to the start of the summer session.

Additionally, day camp staff will be required to:

  • Wear masks at all times.
  • Wear gloves when appropriate.
  • Sanitize any equipment used, such as balls, pens, markers, chairs, tables, etc.
  • Clean and disinfect areas of use once activities are completed.
  • Actively observe any sickness within the group and intervene if warranted.
  • Clean and sanitize each facility each evening in preparation for the next day of camp.

Families that have registered for day camp and wish to withdraw can receive a credit or refund of deposits and fees paid by contacting the Recreation Department at charleston-recreation@charleston-sc.gov or 843-724-7327 by Tuesday, May 26.


UPDATE: May 19, 2020, 1:30 p.m.: 

The city of Charleston, in partnership with Trident United Way, today announced the availability of $132,099 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) and provided by the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The funding is available to nonprofit organizations who provide rental, mortgage and utility assistance to households in the city of Charleston that have been affected by COVID-19. The remaining funds will be used to assist individuals experiencing homelessness who have been affected by the current pandemic.

Nonprofit agencies can request an application for the available CDBG CARES Act funding by contacting funding@tuw.org. Applications will be due to Trident United Way on June 1, 2020, and award notifications will be sent out mid-June.


UPDATE: May 15, 2020, 5:00 p.m.:

At a press conference this afternoon with local restaurant industry representatives, Mayor Tecklenburg announced the city’s plan to allow temporary outdoor dining on private property and public sidewalks.

The emergency ordinance, passed by City Council on Tuesday, May 12, allows local restaurant owners to apply for temporary use of additional areas, such as private property and public sidewalks, for outdoor dining. Restaurant owners can access an overview of the ordinance’s requirements, terms and conditions here and can apply for this use here.

Both the application and permit for temporary outdoor dining are offered free of charge.

Businesses with questions regarding this ordinance can contact the city here.

Also at the press conference, Mayor Tecklenburg announced that, for the remainder of the year, parking in the park-and-ride HOP lot, located at 995 Morrison Drive, will be offered for free and that metered parking enforcement will cease after 6 p.m. citywide.

Beginning on Monday, May 18, the James Island Recreation Center and Herbert Hassel swimming pools will re-open to the public. The hours of operation will be from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.

The pools will be open for exercise and lap swimming only with no group classes or pool equipment being offered at this time. In accordance with DHEC recommendations, pools will be limited to 20 percent capacity and, as such, only one swimmer will be allowed per lane with a 45-minute time limit.

Temperature checks will be conducted with all patrons prior to their entering the pool area.

Locker rooms will be open for restroom use only and patrons are asked to arrive in their swim attire.

Reservations will be required for pool use and can be made on Monday, May 18 beginning at 7:00 a.m. by calling 843-708-4104 (James Island) or 843-724-7344 (Herbert Hassel).

Operating hours will be expanded in the coming weeks as additional staff are added.


UPDATE: May 15, 2020, 4:00 p.m.:

Today, Mayors John Tecklenburg and Will Haynie released the following statement announcing that the 2020 Cooper River Bridge Run would not move forward:

“Given the current circumstances related to COVID-19, we feel that it is time to cancel this year’s Cooper River Bridge Run. These are truly unprecedented times and, as the situation is constantly evolving, we believe that this decision is in the best interest of all our citizens and visitors. We are grateful to Cooper River Bridge Run leadership and staff for their partnership and guidance as we reached this tough decision and we look forward to working with them to make next year’s race the best one yet.”


UPDATE: April 30, 2020, 7:10 p.m.:

Tonight, during an emergency meeting of Charleston City Council, Mayor John Tecklenburg announced that most city parks will reopen this weekend to allow for exercise and movement. No group activities--such as picnics or exercise classes--or close contact court and field sports are allowed.

Citizens must maintain proper social distancing and should consider wearing face masks while using city parks.  

Demetre Park on James Island will continue to be closed, and the Municipal Golf Course will also remain closed to the public due to the ongoing renovations.  

Staff from Recreation, Livability, Traffic and Transportation and Charleston Police Departments will be working to ensure that all citizens abide by the rules of safety and social distancing. The city will continue to use signage to ensure public compliance.  

Restrooms, stationary playground and exercise equipment, dog runs, docks, piers and areas that encourage close contact sports will remain closed until health officials determine that those areas can be safely used.

No permits will be issued for reserved park usage at this time. All indoor recreation facilities will continue to be closed to the public. All recreation programs and activities are still postponed at this time. 

Mary Murray Drive in Hampton Park will be closed to all vehicular traffic from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily as a temporary measure intended to allow more flexibility for social distances for exercise and recreation purposes. 

City of Charleston director of Parks Jason Kronsberg said, “City staff will be out in parks acting as ambassadors and ensuring that everyone is following rules of social distancing.  There will be no large groups allowed to gather and socialize. Citizens using the parks will need to continue to move along and not stay in one area.” 

Below is a graphic regarding social distancing in public parks provided by the National Recreation and Park Association:

parks social distance graphic


UPDATE: April 22, 2020, 7:20 p.m.:

This evening, in response to Governor Henry McMaster’s Executive Order reopening some retail businesses previously determined to be non-essential, Charleston City Council passed an emergency ordinance on decreasing the risk of exposure to COVID- 19 in retail businesses.

The ordinance imposes a rigorous set of health and safety requirements on all retail businesses that are open to the general public during the COVID-19 state of emergency, including strict occupancy limits, social distancing policies, employee monitoring and protection, deep cleaning protocols, appropriate use of masks and gloves, and more. The full ordinance can be viewed here: https://www.charleston-sc.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04222020-5434.

The city’s new One Charleston initiative, announced last week to raise spirits in the community during this time of social distancing and staying at home, has already reached nearly 13,000 users on Facebook, with more utilizing the resources provided on the One Charleston website.

The website and social media pages contain resources and information designed to entertain, educate and provide health and wellness opportunities that can be enjoyed by citizens while at home.

For more information on the One Charleston initiative, and to see how to get involved, visit charleston-sc.gov/one-charleston or search for @OneCharlestonSC on Facebook or Twitter.


UPDATE: April 17, 2020, 4:20 p.m.:

At a press conference this afternoon, Mayor John Tecklenburg elaborated on the city’s COVID-19 response and recovery strategy, which was presented to City Council for their feedback last night.

The plan calls for three steps: first, shutdown to stop the spread (the current step); then, a strategic reopening to prevent future outbreaks; and finally, fully restoring the economy with added resilience. To view a slideshow of the plan, click here: https://www.charleston-sc.gov/DocumentCenter/View/26444/City-of-Charleston-Preliminary-COVID-19-Plan

To see the mayor’s presentation to Council in its entirety, click here: https://youtu.be/_DSVRvtI9NA?t=1105


UPDATE: April 9, 2020, 5:30 p.m.:

The city of Charleston remains at OPCON 1, while today, at a press conference, Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg was joined by Reverend Dr. Krystal Sears, Senior Pastor at Greater St. Luke AME Church, and Imam Bourouis El-Idrissi of the Islamic Council of Charleston and discussed the city’s continued response to COVID-19 and ways area faith leaders are celebrating their respective holidays while avoiding in-person gatherings. Though not able to attend due to the religious holiday, Judi Corsaro, Chief Executive Officer of the Charleston Jewish Federation, provided a written statement that was read on her behalf.

Mayor Tecklenburg said, “I’d like to thank not just our guests here today, but all our area houses of worship for the extraordinary work they’re doing to bring our citizens together spiritually, even in this time of distancing. Through a remarkable combination of modern technology and old fashioned determination, they are continuing to work wonders throughout our community each and every day of this crisis."

In other COVID-19 related news, City of Charleston director of Emergency Management, Shannon Scaff, has created a COVID-19 Hurricane Task Force composed of city officials who are beginning a comprehensive review of the city’s processes and procedures for hurricane preparation and response and how those may be affected by proper safety protocols related to COVID-19.

Also, the city’s department of Traffic and Transportation has now automated pedestrian crossing signals near essential service areas citywide to prevent the potential spread of COVID-19 via crossing signal push buttons. Signage was installed today at the automated intersections informing pedestrians of the change and directing them to not touch the push buttons.


UPDATE: April 7, 2020, 5:45 p.m.:

The city of Charleston remains at OPCON 1, while today, at a press conference, Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg stressed the importance of complying with Governor Henry McMaster’s “Home or Work” order.

Mayor Tecklenburg said, “As the governor made clear yesterday, this is a critical moment for our state. Cases are rising, but we still have the power to save lives, to flatten the curve, if we just follow three simple rules: stay home, stay distanced and stay smart.”

At the same press conference, City of Charleston Emergency Management Director Shannon Scaff reported that his team is working in concert with the city’s safety and risk management group to monitor the city’s inventory and dissemination of personal protective equipment. The city’s allotment of facemasks from the national stockpile will be picked up from Columbia tomorrow and an additional order of 22,000 masks will be delivered on Friday.

Director Scaff said, “The safety of our employees, especially our first responders and other city workers on the front line, is our number one goal. Our safety and risk management team is working diligently to ensure our employees have the proper personal protective equipment to do their jobs safely.”


UPDATE: April 6, 2020, 8:30 p.m.:

The city of Charleston remains at OPCON 1 and continues to enforce the Stay at Home ordinance citywide. In compliance with the ordinance, citizens are asked to continue to heed the stay at home orders and make only essential trips.

Tonight, Charleston City Council passed a temporary ordinance to move forward with virtual public meetings during the state of emergency, while continuing to allow for robust public participation in the process. The ordinance follows an order today by SC Gov. Henry McMaster that called on state or local governments to "utilize any available technology or other reasonable procedures to conduct such [public] meetings and accommodate public participation via virtual or other remote or alternate means."

The City ordinance allows for public input to take place during virtual meetings of Council, boards and commissions. Meetings will be conducted using Zoom Webinars, with board members on camera and able to speak freely or as allowed by normal board operating rules. Members of the public may attend by logging into any computer with an internet connection, by any mobile device, or by audio with any telephone.

For those who do not have an internet connection at home, a computer with a camera and microphone linked to the Zoom webinar will be set up in a public building with proper social distancing precautions in place, for use during the public input period.

In addition, public comments will be taken in writing and during the public input period of hearings, during the times allocated under normal procedures. During the hearing, administrators may open public input to individuals who will have their microphone enabled by the administrator, and participants will state their name and give input just as a regular in-person hearing. All public input will be recorded live.

Hearings will also be broadcast live on other platforms such as the city’s YouTube channel or other media.

Submissions and exhibits that city staff or the applicant will reference will be posted to the city’s website at least seven days in advance of the hearing.

All meetings will be noticed in the same manner and time frame they are normally noticed, and will include the proper information for virtual attendance.


UPDATE: April 3, 2020, 6 p.m.:

At a press conference today, Mayor John Tecklenburg and city leaders once again stressed the importance of complying with the city’s Stay at Home ordinance and reviewed the city’s activities with regard to the coronavirus. To recap:

  • All city offices and facilities, including recreation centers, are closed to the public.
  • All in-person public meetings have been canceled until further notice. Essential meetings are being rescheduled as needed with technology to protect participants and the general public.
  • The city’s Permit Center is closed to the general public. Many permits can be submitted online through the Citizen Access Portal (CAP), https://www.charleston-sc.gov/cap. For permit types not yet configured in CAP, permit applications can be submitted digitally to permits@charleston-sc.gov.
  • Municipal Court jury and bench trials have been postponed. For details, please visit the Municipal Court website here: https://www.charleston-sc.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=819
  • All city parks and playgrounds have been closed.
  • The 2020 seasons of the Charleston Farmers Market in Marion Square and West Ashley Farmers Market in Ackerman Park, both scheduled to begin in April, are suspended until further notice.
  • All instructor led Recreation Department programs and classes, including youth and adult sports programs, have been suspended.
  • The city’s Recreation Department is offering daily virtual recreation activities for all ages that can be done at home. They are providing ideas, crafts, videos, educational opportunities, virtual tours, activities, fitness classes, games and much more. Activities can be viewed on their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/chsrecreation or on the website, here: https://www.charleston-sc.gov/2406/Virtual-Recreation-Activities.
  • City senior centers are closed.
  • Public performances and gallery showings have been canceled in all city facilities until further notice.
  • The Piccolo Spoleto program of ticketed events planned for May 22 to June 7 will not proceed as planned. Once updated venue and artist availability can be assessed, select performances might be rescheduled for presentation later in 2020, or for inclusion in the 2021 Piccolo Spoleto Festival. Updates will be posted at www.piccolospoleto.com and on the Piccolo Spoleto Facebook Page. The 2021 Piccolo Spoleto Festival is scheduled for May 28 – June 13, 2021.
  • All city permitted tours are suspended until further notice.
  • City inspections of occupied structures have been suspended.
  • City Police, Fire and Sanitation have implemented enhanced safety protocols and prepared continuity of operations plans in case they are forced to maintain operations with a reduced workforce.
  • Many city staff members have transitioned to working remotely
  • Departments unable to telecommute have divided crews into A and B teams that alternate workweeks, so as to reduce contact with other city staff.
  • The city has implemented temporary curbside parking relief zones to provide support for local businesses that are fulfilling curbside pickup and delivery orders in lieu of dine-in service. A map of the zone locations is available here: www.charleston-sc.gov/curbside-parking-relief. Feedback about zone locations, including requests to add or move temporary curbside pickup zones, can be submitted to curbside@charleston-sc.gov.
  • The city has established an on-call magistrate to intervene should any illegal evictions be attempted, in order to ensure that SC Chief Justice Don Beatty’s order halting evictions statewide is followed locally.
  • The city is working with the Small Business Administration and City Council to make low-interest disaster loans available to help small businesses overcome this temporary loss of revenue. Applicants can apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at disasterloan.sba.gov. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on available SBA disaster assistance. The deadline to apply is Dec. 21, 2020.
  • City staff members from the Legal and Emergency Management departments have formed an Essential Business Review Committee that meets daily to review applications received from local businesses that would like to be considered essential services. An updated list of essential businesses exempt from the stay at home ordinance is available on the city’s website, here: https://www.charleston-sc.gov/DocumentCenter/View/26251/Emergency-Ordinance-Stay-at-Home
  • The city’s Business and Neighborhood Services division created a website to connect citizens and businesses with local resources: charleston-sc.gov/covid19resourcelist. It features information on essential resources, business support services, recreation and educational resources as well as ways that citizens and businesses can help others in need.
  • The city has created a dashboard that shows the latest DHEC test result numbers and features a map of area hospitals and testing sites. The dashboard can be viewed here: https://gis.charleston-sc.gov/covid-19.
  • In an effort to resume trash service (yard debris and bulk items such as furniture, appliances, bedding and other large objects) while maintaining proper safety protocols, the city’s Public Service department has put together a temporary plan to provide modified trash collection. That plan can be viewed here: https://www.charleston-sc.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=827
  • The city’s Livability Department, working with the Charleston Fire Department, has met with local grocery stores and big-box retailers to provide guidance on social distancing and protective measures that can be implemented. To lessen the chances of COVID-19 spread in these environments, the city has issued the following four recommendations to retailers:
  1. Limit occupancy to 50% of that allowed by code
  2. Mark areas for appropriate customer separation at checkout lanes
  3. Designate each aisle as one-way to lessen cross-traffic and enable social distancing
  4. Provide hand sanitizer and/or wipes to all patrons

In other news, the city of Charleston Public Service department will no longer pick up garbage, cardboard or other items that are not inside the green garbage cart for the safety of the employees. This change is consistent with Charleston County and other area municipalities in an effort to limit employees’ potential exposure to COVID-19. Any excess items that do not fit in the garbage cart can be taken to a Charleston County Convenience Center: https://www.charlestoncounty.org/departments/environmental-management/recycle-locations.php.


UPDATE: April 2, 2020, 7 p.m.:

The city of Charleston remains at OPCON 1 and continues to enforce the Stay at Home ordinance citywide. In compliance with the ordinance, citizens are asked to continue to heed the stay at home orders and make only essential trips.

The 2020 seasons of the Charleston Farmers Market in Marion Square and West Ashley Farmers Market in Ackerman Park, both scheduled to begin in April, are suspended until further notice.

The resource list compiled by the city’s Business and Neighborhood Services division has been updated to include a list of lenders in South Carolina approved by the Small Business Administration. The full resource list can be viewed here: https://www.charleston-sc.gov/covid19resourcelist.

The city’s Recreation Department is offering daily virtual recreation activities for all ages that can be done at home. They are providing ideas, crafts, videos, educational opportunities, virtual tours, activities, fitness classes, games and much more. Activities can be viewed on their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/chsrecreation or on the website, here: https://www.charleston-sc.gov/2406/Virtual-Recreation-Activities.

 Earlier today, the city sent out a notice regarding fake letters claiming that the city and MUSC are seeking college students for a COVID-19 vaccine trial. The full notice about the scam can be viewed here: https://www.charleston-sc.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=831.


UPDATE: April 2, 2020, 4 p.m.:

The city of Charleston learned today that scam letters are being sent to College of Charleston students claiming the City of Charleston Public Service Department and MUSC are seeking healthy students to participate in a vaccine trial for COVID-19. These letters are fake, and there is no such vaccine trial.

The letters instruct the recipient to show up in person at 180 Lockwood for a health screening. There is no health screening located at 180 Lockwood.

Citizens are to continue to follow the city’s “Stay at Home” ordinance. Anyone who believes they have symptoms of COVID-19 should go to MUSC’s telehealth website at musc.care to be screened for testing.

A copy of the letter is linked here.


UPDATE: April 1, 2020, 6:30 p.m.:

Tonight, during an emergency meeting, Charleston City Council amended the city’s “Stay at Home” Ordinance to add Governor Henry McMaster’s most recent orders regarding the closure of “non-essential” businesses, venues, facilities, services, and activities; the requirement that out-of-state visitors from coronavirus “hotspots” self-quarantine and the closure of all public beaches, piers, docks, wharfs, boat ramps, and boat landings.

Additionally, the amendment made clear that the ordinance does not preempt or overrule any court order regarding an individual’s conduct, such as a domestic violence protection order, a child custody order or similar orders limiting an individual’s access to a particular place. 

The ordinance will remain in effect for 60 days from when it was enacted on March 16, 2020, or until repealed.


UPDATE: March 31, 2020, 7 p.m.:

The city of Charleston remains at OPCON 1 and continues to enforce the Stay at Home ordinance citywide.

Since last Friday, the city’s Livability Department has been working with the Charleston Fire Department to meet with local grocery stores and big-box retailers to provide guidance on social distancing and various protective measures that can be implemented.

To lessen the chances of COVID-19 spread in these environments, the city is now issuing the following four recommendations to retailers:

  1. Limit occupancy to 50% of that allowed by code
  2. Mark areas for appropriate customer separation at checkout lanes
  3. Designate each aisle as one-way to lessen cross-traffic and enable social distancing
  4. Provide hand sanitizer and/or wipes to all patrons

The Charleston Police Department is working with its regional partners to enforce Governor Henry McMaster’s executive order regarding the closure of public boat landings and water access points and has dispatched its marine patrol boats to aid this effort.

The city continues actively working to provide assistance to vulnerable members of the community who are unsheltered during this time. Portable handwashing stations have been set up in areas with high pedestrian traffic, and with the help of Charleston’s medical community, the city has developed and implemented a plan to provide meals, transportation and safe spaces for these individuals to quarantine while awaiting testing or test results, and to subsequently isolate in the event of a positive result.

Additionally, the city is working with Fetter Health Care Network and MUSC to increase their testing capacity and accessibility to better meet the needs of individuals who are unsheltered and who may lack access to reliable transportation.

At their meeting on Monday, April 6, Charleston City Council will consider an emergency ordinance authorizing public hearings before city boards, commissions and committees to be conducted virtually for a period of 60 days or until otherwise terminated.

The emergency ordinance can be viewed here: https://www.charleston-sc.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04062020-5394

The April 6 meeting will also include a Citizens’ Participation Period. Citizens must provide comments by 4:00 p.m., Friday, April 3rd in one of the following forms:

  1. E-mail comments to publiccomments@charleston-sc.gov
  2. Leave a voice mail at 843-579-6313
  3. Mail comments to: Clerk of Council, 80 Broad Street, Charleston, SC 29401


UPDATE: March 30, 2020, 7:30 p.m.:

The city of Charleston continues to operate at OPCON 1 and the city’s Stay at Home ordinance remains in effect with non-essential businesses closed citywide.

In an effort to resume trash service (yard debris and bulk items such as furniture, appliances, bedding and other large objects) while maintaining proper safety protocols, the city’s Public Service department has put together a temporary plan to provide modified trash collection.

Beginning tomorrow, neighborhoods in outer West Ashley, serviced by Carolina Waste, will resume normal trash collection.

Next week, Johns Island and Daniel Island, which are serviced by Republic Waste, will resume normal trash collection.

Other areas of the city will transition back to normal trash collection after a special weekly pickup schedule in the month of April. During these weekly schedules, all citizens are asked to have their trash out on Monday, with the understanding that it will be collected at some point during the week as crews move throughout the area. The weekly schedules are as follows:

Over the week of April 5, city crews will collect in West Ashley, inside I-526. The following week of April 12, crews will collect on James Island. Then, during the week of April 19, crews will collect throughout the peninsula. Again, these schedules are weekly, so all citizens are asked to put their trash out on Monday of the appropriate week to ensure that it is collected.

In addition to these schedules, this week the one small truck that is currently available for trash collection is picking up excess debris where possible on the peninsula.

The City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs today formally announced that the Piccolo Spoleto program of ticketed events planned for May 22 to June 7 will not proceed as planned. Once updated venue and artist availability can be assessed, select performances might be rescheduled for presentation later in 2020, or for inclusion in the 2021 Piccolo Spoleto Festival.

Piccolo Spoleto’s outreach programming and free-to-attend series are being re-evaluated presently by Festival staff and its partners, including discussion of shifting some initiatives to digital platforms and possible rescheduling to future dates.

 Updates will be posted at www.piccolospoleto.com and on the Piccolo Spoleto Facebook Page. The 2021 Piccolo Spoleto Festival is scheduled for May 28 – June 13, 2021.


UPDATE: March 30, 2020, 11:45 a.m.:

The city of Charleston continues to operate at OPCON 1 and the city’s Stay at Home ordinance remains in effect with non-essential businesses closed citywide.

Over the weekend, Charleston Police Department continued their policy of measured enforcement of the stay at home ordinance, informing citizens about the law and reiterating that parks, public spaces and non-essential businesses are closed.

Charleston Police Chief Luther Reynolds said, “Our measured enforcement approach to the Stay at Home ordinance seems to be having the desired effect. This weekend, traffic was down by more than 75% on our major thoroughfares, and among those who are out for recreation, we’re seeing much smaller groups with better social distancing. So, based on what we’re seeing, I’d say we’re trending in the right direction."

In addition to CPD efforts, the city’s Livability Department began working last week to contact large grocery and big box stores in the area to review city social distancing requirements.

"So far, the response has generally been positive, with many stores implementing social distancing policies and procedures that really work," said Livability Director Dan Riccio. "We plan to continue this outreach until all our store owners and managers understand the goals and requirements of the ordinance."

 An emergency meeting of Charleston City Council will take place virtually this evening at 5 p.m. Citizens can listen in by calling 1-929-205-6099 and entering access code: 925302562. The agenda for tonight’s meeting can be found here: https://www.charleston-sc.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03302020-5389.


UPDATE: March 27, 2020, 5:15 p.m.:

The city of Charleston continues to operate at OPCON 1 with the stay at home ordinance in effect and non-essential businesses closed citywide.

Earlier today, Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg and Police Chief Luther Reynolds held a press conference to provide an update on the city’s continued efforts to flatten the curve of COVID-19 cases. To view video of the press conference on Facebook click here: https://www.facebook.com/CityCharleston/videos/148373079848031/.

Tonight, Charleston City Council will vote on an Emergency Ordinance to defer city hospitality taxes. The action would align with Gov. Henry McMaster’s tax deferral order of March 17, and provide more than a million dollars of immediate short-term relief to some of the hardest-hit small and locally-owned businesses in Charleston’s hospitality sector.

Next week, green garbage bins will continue to be collected on schedule, as collection of yard debris and bulk items such as furniture, appliances, bedding and other large objects remains temporarily suspended. Next week, the city expects to finalize and announce a plan to resume trash pickup while preserving the safety measures now in place.

The city of Charleston Business and Neighborhood Services division today released a website to connect citizens and businesses with local resources: charleston-sc.gov/covid19resourcelist. It features information on essential resources, business support services, recreation and educational resources as well as ways that citizens and businesses can help others in need.

The city has created a dashboard that shows the latest DHEC test result numbers and features a map of area hospitals and testing sites. The dashboard can be viewed here: https://maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/c3ecd3c3231a476390b9f07b82fd2619.


UPDATE: March 27, 2020, 2:30 p.m.:

Today, city of Charleston Corporation Counsel Susan Herdina released the following statement with regard to the SC Attorney General Office’s opinion on home rule and emergency authority:

"The city appreciates the strong support for the principle of Home Rule voiced in today’s AG Office’s opinion, and believes that principle extends to emergency ordinances to protect the health and safety of our citizens. In addition, city leaders and staff have worked diligently to ensure that our current emergency ordinances directly support and codify the orders issued by Governor McMaster during this crisis."


UPDATE: March 26, 2020, 7:15 p.m.:

The city of Charleston continues to operate at OPCON 1 with the stay at home ordinance in effect and non-essential businesses closed citywide.

The Community Development Committee and Charleston City Council met today and approved an emergency ordinance to reallocate $40,000 in Community Development Block Grant funding to provide public services and temporary living quarters for those who are homeless and/or vulnerable and are required to self-isolate or self-quarantine due to COVID-19.

The emergency ordinance can be viewed here: https://www.charleston-sc.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03262020-5386

The city of Charleston’s Essential Business Review Committee also met today to review applications received from local businesses that would like to be considered essential services. The committee, comprised of staff members from the city’s Legal and Emergency Management departments, will continue to meet daily.

An updated list of essential businesses exempt from the stay at home ordinance is available on the city’s website, here: https://www.charleston-sc.gov/DocumentCenter/View/26251/Emergency-Ordinance-Stay-at-Home

All businesses that would like to be considered for the essential services list must submit an application by 9 a.m., Monday, March 30. The application can be found here: https://www.charleston-sc.gov/FormCenter/Corporation-Counsel-7/Essential-Business-Review-Application-94.


UPDATE: March 25, 2020, 6:55 p.m.:

In response to the stay at home ordinance passed by Charleston City Council last night, the city has received a number of questions regarding the closure of non-essential businesses.

In order to provide guidance, the city’s Legal Department has released a sample list of businesses that would be considered nonessential under the emergency ordinance. The list includes, but is not limited to, the following:

  • Retail stores and shopping malls (except as exempted by the ordinance)
  • Fitness centers, including yoga, barre and cycling facilities
  • Entertainment facilities including, but not limited to:
    • Music venues
    • Theaters
    • Museums
    • Movie theaters
  • Arts and crafts businesses
  • Dance schools
  • Recreation and indoor sports facilities including, but not limited to:
    • Ice skating rinks
    • Bowling alleys
    • Trampoline parks
  • Sporting event venues, including golf courses
  • Barber shops and hair salons
  • Day spas
  • Tattoo and body piercing shops
  • Private clubs (except for the provision of food for take-out and/or delivery)

This list may be modified as necessary for the health, safety and welfare of the city of Charleston. 

In addition to defining essential services, the ordinance allows changes to the essential businesses list as appropriate.

The process for businesses to request to be included among the essential businesses list is as follows:

Businesses that believe they should be considered essential are asked to fill out the Essential Business Review Application on the city website. Applications will be reviewed daily by a committee made up of staff members from the city’s Legal and Emergency Management departments. The Review Committee will then forward recommendations to the mayor based on criteria established by the Department of Homeland Security.

To view the application, visit: https://www.charleston-sc.gov/FormCenter/Corporation-Counsel-7/Essential-Business-Review-Application-94.


UPDATE: March 24, 2020, 2:30 p.m.:

Today, at a 2:30 p.m. press conference, Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg gave the following remarks regarding the city’s continued efforts to mitigate the impacts of COVID-19:

Good afternoon.

For the past several weeks, governments and residents across our state have been working to slow the onset of the coronavirus pandemic here in South Carolina. 

Schools and city public buildings have been closed. Bars and restaurants have stopped serving onsite. Large gatherings have been banned, and citizens have been urged to stay home, stay distanced and stay smart.

But with yesterday’s announcement that the Covid-19 pandemic has officially reached the acceleration phase in our our state, we must now take even more dramatic action, while there’s still time to save thousands of lives right here in Charleston by flattening the curve.

That’s why, in light of the large gatherings we’ve seen in public spaces both here and around the country, I’ve today ordered the temporary closure of all city parks and playgrounds. 

And it’s why I will tonight introduce a citywide stay at home ordinance for emergency action by our City Council. 

Put simply, this ordinance would require the closure of non-essential businesses here in the city of Charleston, and direct our citizens to stay at home, except for necessary trips to the grocery store, the pharmacy, or for other essential services and activities. This action would last for a period of 14 days, and would be taken under the city’s broad emergency authority to protect public health and safety during times of emergency.

But before we take that step, I believe we owe our citizens and business owners a clear explanation of the facts that make this emergency action necessary.

 First, there’s the fact that our state public health agency, DHEC, has now officially told us that the coronavirus pandemic is in the acceleration phase in our state. This means that there is significant community spread, and that we’ve entered the period of maximum danger for our citizens, with infection rates and deaths due to this disease set to rise exponentially.

 Second, there’s the simple fact of population density. Three of the four largest cities in our state sit side by side here in the Lowcountry, with a total population in the hundreds of thousands. We cannot and must not allow this deadly, highly contagious disease to spread uncontrolled among our residents.

 And, finally, there are the numbers with regard to the disease itself. Modeling at both Columbia University and here locally shows that Charleston is facing thousands of deaths -- most of them unnecessary -- if we don’t stop the spread of this virus and prevent our local hospital system from being overwhelmed right now. This moment -- with the pandemic still in the earliest part of the acceleration phase -- is our last, best chance to keep that tragedy from happening here in our city.

 Fellow Charlestonians, yes, the days ahead may be long. They may call for a level of service to others that’s uncommon in our age.

 But if a lifetime in Charleston has taught me anything, it is this: There is no challenge that we cannot face together. There is no trial that can break our faith. There is no pathogen that can lessen our love for our families, our friends, or our fellow Charlestonians.

 We can and will bend the curve on this disease in our community. And we will do it the way we do everything here in Charleston: We’ll do it together.


UPDATE: March 23, 2020, 7:30 p.m.

The city of Charleston continues to operate at OPCON 1, with city buildings closed to the public and employees transitioning to working from home. Those who are unable to telecommute are now working in alternating A and B teams in order to protect the city’s ability to provide essential services, while reducing risk for the employees themselves.

While city parks remain open for responsible use, this week citizens will see an increased city presence to ensure proper social distancing is taking place.

The city has received a number of questions regarding the suspension of trash collection. To clarify, green garbage bins of household waste will be picked up as normal. Yard debris and bulk items such as furniture, appliances, bedding and other large objects will not be collected this week.

This temporary action is being taken in order to make trash collectors available to serve as alternate garbage collectors in the A/B scheduling system described above.

 As a reminder, the regularly scheduled meetings of the Ways and Means Committee and Charleston City Council will take place virtually, rather than at City Hall. Both meetings will be streamed live on the city’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxDws_o-1voXBNOAZ17gZxw/videos?view=2. Alternately, the public can call and listen to the meetings by dialing 1-929-205-6099; access code: 225906695. The meeting agendas can be viewed here: https://www.charleston-sc.gov/AgendaCenter.


UPDATE: March 22, 2020, 4 p.m.

Today, at a 4 p.m. press conference with representatives from Charleston County, the City of North Charleston and the Town of Mount Pleasant Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg gave the following remarks:

With the coronavirus now aggressively spreading across our state and region, we’re here today with a simple message for our citizens -- stay home, stay distanced and stay smart.

Doctors tell us that the uncontrolled spread of Covid-19 would be nothing less than a death sentence for thousands of our friends and family members right here in the Lowcountry. And the only way to avoid that tragedy is for all of us to start following those three simple rules right now. 

Number one, stay home -- and that means just what it says. If you don’t have an essential reason to go out, don’t go out. The life you save by avoiding that unnecessary trip could turn out to be yours or one of your loved ones. And as difficult as this is to say to our already suffering business owners, you as citizens have a critical role to play, too: If your business is not truly essential during this time, temporarily closing your doors or having your employees work from home now is a hard choice to make -- but it’s infinitely better than the economic and social devastation that you and the rest of us will suffer if this virus gets out of control in our area.

Number two, stay distanced. Practicing good social distancing when we have to go out for essential trips to the grocery store or the pharmacy is the best medicine we have to protect ourselves and each other.

And finally, number three, stay smart. Wash your hands. Don’t buy all the toilet paper at the grocery store. Don’t believe every crazy Facebook rumor that’s floating around. And whatever you do, don’t go out if you have a cough and fever. That’s when you have to self-quarantine immediately and go to MUSC’s telehealth website at musc.care to get into the system for testing.

The choice facing our community today is simple. 

If we follow these rules right now -- if we stay home, stay distanced and stay smart -- we can still avoid being a hotspot, like Italy or New York. 

And if we don’t follow these rules, we can spend the next few months watching funerals online -- literally, thousands of funerals -- because we won’t be able to gather together even to say goodbye to our loved ones. 

We’re here today to ask our citizens to follow these rules and choose life.

The power is in all of our hands.


UPDATE: March 20, 2020, 8 p.m.

Effective at 5 p.m. today, the city of Charleston shifted to OPCON-1 and closed all remaining offices and facilities, including recreation centers, to the public. 

Many city staff members will transition to working remotely effective Monday, with departments unable to telecommute dividing crews into A and B teams that will alternate workweeks, so as to reduce contact with other city staff. 

The Police and Fire Departments will continue to operate normally, with enhanced safety protocols, in order to preserve public safety.

Beginning on Monday, and for the duration of the week, trash collection will be suspended citywide, in order to make additional crews available to operate the A/B schedule for garbage collection. This suspension applies to the city of Charleston as whole, including areas serviced by contractors (Daniel Island, Cainhoy, Outer West Ashley and Johns Island). 

Citizens are asked to remove any existing curbside yard debris and bulk/miscellaneous items and to refrain from placing these materials at the curb until collection resumes.

While using public spaces, citizens are encouraged to observe the following National Recreation and Park Association recommendations:

  • Refrain from using parks or trails if exhibiting symptoms.
  • Follow CDC’s guidance on personal hygiene prior to and during use of parks or trails.
  • Prepare for limited access to public restrooms or water fountains.
  • While on trails, warn other users of their presence and as they pass, and step aside to let others pass.
  • Follow CDC guidance on the recommended size of social gatherings including outdoor picnicking, pick-up sports and other group hangouts, and maintain proper physical distance at all times.
  • Observe CDC’s minimum recommended social distancing of 6 feet from other individuals at all times. If this is not possible, users should find an alternate location or depart that space.

At an emergency meeting, Charleston City Council passed an emergency ordinance to suspend both the accrual of city business license late fees and the enforcement the city’s code pertaining to environmentally acceptable packaging and products (plastic bag ban) for 60 days. Additionally, the ordinance extends the expiration date for chauffer’s licenses issued between March 18, 2019 and April 1, 2019.

Today, the city began implementing temporary curbside parking relief zones to provide support for local businesses that are fulfilling curbside pickup and delivery orders in lieu of dine-in service. The temporary pickup zones will be clearly marked with “Temporary Curbside Parking” signs, which will be in place by tomorrow morning. 

Most of the zones are being implemented where there are currently loading zones, on-street metered parking or time-restricted parking. These spaces are free for use by restaurant employees, delivery drivers and curbside pickup patrons while fulfilling orders to enable an efficient flow of business. A map of the zone locations is available here: www.charleston-sc.gov/curbside-parking-relief.

Decision-making regarding the selection of these temporary zones is ongoing, based on the number of businesses providing these services, the physical restrictions that may exist, and the availability of city resources. Businesses and organizations are encouraged to provide feedback about zone locations, including requests to add or move temporary curbside pickup zones, at curbside@charleston-sc.gov. 

In order to ensure that SC Chief Justice Don Beatty’s order halting all evictions statewide is followed here in Charleston, the city has established an on-call magistrate to intervene should any illegal evictions be attempted.

The city is currently working with the Small Business Administration and City Council to make low-interest disaster loans available to help small businesses overcome this temporary loss of revenue and survive this extraordinarily difficult time. These loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that can’t be paid because of the disaster’s impact.

Applicants can apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at disasterloan.sba.gov. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on available SBA disaster assistance. The deadline to apply is Dec. 21, 2020.


UPDATE: March 20, 2020, 5:30 p.m.

At a press conference today, Mayor John Tecklenburg made the following statement on the city’s efforts related to COVID-19:

Since the threat of the coronavirus first became clear in China and later in Europe, the city of Charleston has taken a number of steps to prepare and to help keep our employees and citizens safe – our #1 priority.

A significant part of that effort has been closing down public facilities, including the City Market, Dock Street Theatre, Old Slave Mart Museum and more, postponing public meetings and limiting public gatherings in accordance with recommendations from our medical community and the CDC. 

In order to further reduce the risk of coronavirus transmission, we suspended all instructor-led Recreation Department programs and classes, including youth and adult sports, and closed the doors to our senior centers. Additionally, we suspended all city permitted tours until further notice.

Charleston City Council has begun holding daily emergency meetings by telephone to receive updates from Emergency Management on the city’s efforts to mitigate impacts and to ensure continued city operations in a safe environment.

I want to assure everyone that our Police and Fire Departments will continue to operate as normal, with enhanced safety protocols, in order to preserve public safety.

And, now, effective at 5 p.m. today, the city will close all remaining offices and indoor recreation facilities to the public. We will continue to provide services to citizens while taking every possible precaution with regard to public health and safety.

For many of our employees, as we continue to strongly urge everyone to practice social distancing, this next step will necessitate a transition to working from home. 

Some departments for which telecommuting is less feasible, such as Livability and Tourism, Parks, Public Service, and others, will divide crews into teams that will alternate workweeks, so as to reduce contact with other city staff and the public.

Beginning on Monday, for the duration of the week, bulk trash/debris collection will be suspended citywide, in order to make additional crews available to assist with garbage collection. This suspension applies to the city of Charleston as a whole, including areas serviced by contractors (Daniel Island, Cainhoy, Outer West Ashley and Johns Island).

Citizens are asked to remove any existing curbside yard debris and bulk/miscellaneous items and to refrain from placing these materials at the curb until collection resumes. So, green cans will be picked up next week, not bulk debris.

To ensure that essential city functions remain in operation during this unprecedented time, some employees may even be temporarily reassigned to positions and departments other than their own.

From an economic standpoint, our number one concern right now is for all our citizens who are suddenly losing their jobs and fighting to save their businesses as a result of this crisis.

To assist those who are feeling the economic effects most, the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce has created a new online hub (dew.sc.gov/covid-hub) where workers whose employment was affected by COVID-19 can go to have their questions answered, learn about ways they can help their employees, or find information on unemployment benefits.

Additionally, the city is currently working with the Small Business Administration and City Council to make low-interest disaster loans available to help small businesses overcome this temporary loss of revenue and survive this extraordinarily difficult time. These loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that can’t be paid because of the disaster’s impact.

Applicants can apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at disasterloan.sba.gov. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on available SBA disaster assistance. The deadline to apply is Dec. 21, 2020.

There’s no question that these are challenging times for us here in Charleston and for those around the world. As we continue working with our local partners to slow the spread of this virus and keep our community safe and healthy, what we need most are two things that, fortunately, our citizens have in abundance here in Charleston: common sense and the desire to be a good neighbor.

And with that in mind, I’d like to make three requests of our citizens today:

1. Stay home and limit trips to only those that are essential in order to reduce the spread of this virus.

2. If you develop the symptoms – cough and fever – self-quarantine immediately and go to MUSC’s telehealth website (musc.care) to register and get in their system for testing.

3. Under the heading of being a good neighbor, please, don’t hoard groceries and other household supplies. There is plenty to go around, as long as we buy only what we need and continue to look out for one another.

As always, the health and safety of the citizens of Charleston remains our number one priority. I ask that you all continue to be smart and do your part to help flatten the curve by staying home and helping to spread that message on social media by using the hashtag #FlattenTheCurveSC.

And finally, I must take a moment to commend the remarkable men and women in our community – the many healthcare workers, grocery store employees, cops, firefighters, and more – who continue going to work every day to protect our citizens and help our city through these unprecedented times. We owe you a great debt of gratitude and truly couldn’t do this without you. Thank you.


UPDATE: March 19, 2020, 7:15 p.m.

Tonight, at an emergency meeting, Charleston City Council voted to amend the city’s emergency ordinance regarding gatherings to align with Governor Henry McMaster’s guidelines for bars and restaurants and to limit social gatherings to no more than 10 people, in accordance with current CDC guidelines. View the ordinance here: https://www.charleston-sc.gov/DocumentCenter/View/26214/gathering-ordinance-final-proposed-amendments-final.


UPDATE: March 18, 2020, 6:45 p.m.

The city of Charleston remains at OPCON 2, with modified operations designed to limit in-person contact.

According to SC DHEC, there are now 60 positive cases of coronavirus in South Carolina, four of which tested positive in Charleston County. For the latest on testing and monitoring in South Carolina, visit https://www.scdhec.gov/monitoring-testing-covid-19.

In order to reduce the risk of Coronavirus transmission in the city of Charleston, at noon today, all city permitted tours were suspended until further notice. This action was taken to create more social distancing, and is consistent with the goal of limiting group size on city streets, sidewalks and other common public areas.

Beginning tomorrow, the Charleston City Market and all other city of Charleston special facilities--Angel Oak, Cannon Street Arts Center, Dock Street Theatre, Maritime Center, Old Exchange Building and Old Slave Mart Museum--will be closed to the public. 

Charleston City Council met at 5:30 p.m. this evening and received updates from Emergency Management on the city’s efforts to mitigate impacts and to ensure continued city operations in a safe environment. Council will continue to meet daily at 5:30 p.m. by phone for updates.


UPDATE: March 18, 2020, 11:30 a.m.

In order to reduce the risk of Coronavirus transmission in the city of Charleston, all city permitted tours will be suspended until further notice, beginning at noon today. This action is being taken to create more social distancing, and is consistent with the goal of limiting group size on city streets, sidewalks and other common public areas.


UPDATE: March 17, 2020, 8:30 p.m.

The city of Charleston remains at OPCON 2, with modified operations designed to limit in-person contact.

According to SC DHEC, there are now 47 positive cases of coronavirus in South Carolina, three of which tested positive in Charleston County. For the latest on testing and monitoring in South Carolina, visit https://www.scdhec.gov/monitoring-testing-covid-19.

Charleston City Council met at 5:30 p.m. this evening and received updates from Emergency Management on the city’s efforts to mitigate impacts and to ensure continued city operations in a safe environment. Council will continue to meet daily at 5:30 p.m. by phone for updates.

At a separate meeting earlier in the day, County and City officials agreed to defer collection of accommodations and hospitality taxes for 90 days.

Municipal Court jury and bench trials have been postponed. For details, please visit the Municipal Court website here: https://www.charleston-sc.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=807

There will be a telephonic emergency Public Safety Committee meeting tomorrow, March 18 at 2 p.m. to discuss the implementation of the Emergency Ordinances put into effect on March 16 related to COVID-19. The dial-in is: 1-800-747-5150; access code: 7243729#.


UPDATE: March 17, 2020, 5 a.m.

The city of Charleston continues to operate at OPCON 2, indicating a state of modified operations intended to limit person-to-person contact.

Charleston City Council met telephonically on March 16, 2020, to receive an update on the city’s response to the coronavirus. During the meeting, City Council approved a state of emergency declaration, as well as a set of three emergency ordinances with regard to COVID-19.

The first ordinance prohibits price gouging in the city of Charleston.

The second ordinance prohibits gatherings of 50 or more people in public, indoor, social gathering establishments. It does not apply to non-social public establishments, such as grocery stores or private offices, though the city still strongly recommends social distancing in those environments.

The third ordinance enables City Council, Ways and Means and Standing Committee meetings to be conducted telephonically, by video conference or other virtual means.

The emergency ordinances will remain in effect for 60 days, or until the state of emergency is terminated.


UPDATE: March 16, 2020, 9:45 a.m.

At an emergency telephonic City Council meeting at 2 p.m. today, Council will be briefed on city actions to date and consider a State of Emergency declaration. The call in number for the meeting is 1-800-747-5150; access code: 7243729#.

Following the meeting, at 3 p.m., Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg and MUSC President Dr. David Cole will hold a press conference at Washington Square, located behind City Hall at 80 Broad Street.

Currently, city officials and staff are taking the following additional steps to protect public safety and slow the spread of the coronavirus in our area.

All public meetings have been canceled through the end of the month. Essential meetings will be rescheduled as needed with technology and social distancing practices that protect participants and the general public.

Public performances and gallery showings have been canceled in all city facilities through March 31.

All instructor led Recreation Department programs and classes, including youth and adult sports programs, have been suspended. Consistent with CDC guidelines, citizens are discouraged from gathering in groups of 50 or more in city parks and playgrounds.

City senior centers are closed.

Beginning at noon today, the city’s Permit Center will be closed to the general public. Many permits can be submitted online through the Citizen Access Portal (CAP), https://www.charleston-sc.gov/cap. For permit types not yet configured in CAP, permit applications can be submitted digitally to permits@charleston-sc.gov. 

At this time, there will be no inspections of occupied structures. Inspections for unoccupied structures will continue as normal.

City departments are implementing work-from-home policies that allow city services to continue.

City Police, Fire and Sanitation have implemented enhanced safety protocols and prepared continuity of operations plans in case they are forced to maintain operations with a reduced workforce.

Mayor Tecklenburg said, “The health and public safety of our citizens and employees are always our priority. This virus is known to be very contagious and taking these social distancing measures is essential to mitigating the spread in our community.”


UPDATE: March 13, 2020, 6 p.m.

The city of Charleston today announced the postponement of the upcoming Trust and Security Community Summit, sponsored by the city and Mayor’s Clergy Advisory Council, which was scheduled to take place at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, March 16, 2020 at Greater St. Luke AME Church. A new date will be announced as soon as possible.

Those with questions about this event can contact Mike Whack at whackm@charleston-sc.gov or 843-990-3470.

Starting Saturday, March 14, Charleston Stage performances at the Dock Street Theater will be suspended through at least March 31.

Additionally, the Charleston Gaillard Center’s Board and Management Team today announced their decision to close the Martha and John M. Rivers Performance Hall to large gatherings through April 16, 2020.

Based on this announcement, the following events have been canceled:

  • Charleston Symphony Orchestra’s Mendelssohn’s Scottish Symphony on March 27 and 28
  • MasterChef Junior Live! on March 29
  • The Play That Goes Wrong on March 31
  • Philharmonix on April 14

At this time, all performances set to occur after April 16, 2020 remain scheduled. Gaillard Center and city officials will continue to monitor the situation as it evolves and will make adjustments as needed.

All other city events and meetings are under active review and more announcements are expected over the coming days.


UPDATE: March 10, 2020, 3 p.m.

City of Charleston Emergency Management Director Shannon Scaff will address Charleston City Council tonight to provide an update on the city’s coronavirus preparations. Among the steps he’ll be discussing are the following:

Joint Federal, State and Local Planning Efforts:

  • Mayor John Tecklenburg and city of Charleston leaders remain in close communication with federal, state and regional officials including representatives of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), the U.S. Coast Guard and the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) on the situation related to the coronavirus.
  • The city’s Emergency Management team, along with area emergency managers including MUSC, are meeting regularly to align efforts across jurisdictions. 
  • Additionally, the city has established an area stakeholders subcommittee of the Health and Wellness Committee with representatives from Medical University of South Carolina, area public and private schools and special events coordinators.
  • At a press conference yesterday, Dr. Linda Bell, state epidemiologist for the state public health agency, SC DHEC stated, “There’s no reason, at this time, to cancel any public events or take any special measures, when there is no evidence of ongoing spread in a community.” However, the city continues to consult with DHEC and area medical leaders with regard to the continuation or cancellation of all public events.
  • The Port of Charleston is a state port and is governed by the state of South Carolina. While the city of Charleston has no legal authority over cruise ship landings or departures, emergency management has been in close contact with the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Customs and Border Patrol and been assured that these agencies are monitoring cruise ships arriving in the Port of Charleston and have the responsibility to take appropriate steps with regard to public safety. They receive detailed passenger and crew member information, including full travel histories, prior to all ships’ arrivals in Charleston and are actively monitoring for potential coronavirus exposures. 

Citywide Preparations:

  • The city has focused its efforts externally and internally to ensure continuity of operations. 
  • Charleston Police and Fire have each created contingency plans to ensure public safety is maintained at all times, even if staffing levels are reduced significantly due to illness or quarantine. 
  • Health and safety information has been posted and hand sanitizer is now available in all city buildings and workspaces. In total, 900 bottles of hand sanitizer have been ordered for use in city vehicles and shared areas.
  • Custodians have been instructed to disinfect shared common surfaces like door knobs, counters, refrigerator handles, microwaves, water fountains, vending machines, etc.
  • Additional personal protective equipment supplies have been ordered for first responders. 
  • Employee work related travel has been limited only to absolutely essential travel. 
  • Sick employees, board members and citizens are asked to remain at home and not attend public meetings to conduct city business.
  • When possible, staff has been asked to conduct meetings via phone or other technologies where it makes sense to reduce in person meetings.
  • Reviewing Human Resources and Payroll policies regarding those things, including sick leave.

City Protocols to Ensure Citizen Services:

  • The safety and health of employees and citizens are the first consideration in planning for continued operations.
  • Essential operations are being identified that must be performed under all conditions by department.  Examples of essential operations would include: public safety (police, fire and emergency management), garbage and sanitation services, payroll, accounts payable and network operations.  
  • Essential personnel and tools and support needed to perform their duties are being identified.
  • Proactive measures to be taken within workspaces to reduce the risk of transmission of the virus by implementing preventative measures have been outlined.

Ongoing Efforts:

  • Continue review of city processes, policies and procedures to reflect all current recommendations and best practices.
  • Implementation of responsible public health measures based on circumstances and the recommendations of SC DHEC and area medical professionals.
  • Provide reliable COVID-19 resources to citizens via the city’s website at www.charleston-sc.gov/COVID-19.
  • City leaders will remain in close contact with federal, state, local and medical partners to plan and execute next steps as the situation continues to evolve.