Looking to grab a drink at a bar in the Florida Keys? Here are the rules

Florida bars reopened as part of Florida’s phase two of returning to the “new normal” for business.

The Keys were shut down for more than two months until June 1, when checkpoints were removed and visitors were once again allowed.

Even when restaurants, hotels and tourist attractions reopened, bars and nightclubs remained closed. That changed as of June 5 at 12:01 a.m. for all of Florida except Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties.

Here’s what you’ll witness and have to follow if you want to spend an afternoon or night at a Keys bar.

What’s different from before the closing?

▪ Restaurants and bars may operate at 50% indoor capacity, including employees.

▪ Bar areas, which previously had to remain closed, may open with seated service.

▪ Outdoor seating is allowed with social distancing.

▪ Employees are “highly recommended” by the county to wear facial coverings such as masks or bandannas in public settings.

▪ Businesses must follow cleaning regulations provided by government health and business agencies.

What about nightclubs?

Nightclubs remain closed during phase two, according to a government FAQ page. However, some bars that also function as clubs such as Aqua Key West and the 801 Bourbon Bar reopened.

This story was originally published June 8, 2020 at 1:50 PM.