COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

Arlington County, along with the entire Commonwealth of Virginia, entered Phase 3 of the Forward Virginia plan on Wednesday, July 1. See the news release for details.

The County is committed to the health and safety of our employees and our community. We have closed many programs and facilities (e.g., libraries, community centers, parks, playgrounds); however, we continue to operate essential government services for our residents and businesses. The current status of County departments, services and programs can be found on our status updates page.

In Phase 3, Arlington will continue the Safer at Home strategy, with continued recommendations for social distancing and teleworking, and the requirement that individuals wear face coverings in indoor public settings.

The maximum number of individuals permitted in a social gathering will increase to 250 people.

Read the Governor’s Phase 3 Guidance.

While Phase 3 will see the easing of some restrictions, Arlington will continue to open government facilities gradually, to ensure we can offer adequate space for social distancing and follow public health guidelines. Because Arlington is an urban, high-density area — and because we need to remember there is still community spread of the virus — we are going to move forward with caution in the hopes that we can continue to stop the spread of COVID-19 and ensure the safety and well-being of our entire community.

As we move into Phase 3, it will take everyone in our community doing their part—to stay at home if they are sick, practice social distancing of 6 feet, wear face coverings when in public, and wash your hands often.  Our collective impact—here in Arlington, and across the region—will help us address our health and economic crisis for the future.

The significant changes from Phase 2 to 3 include:

• The maximum number of individuals allowed in social gatherings will increase from 50 to 250 people
• Restaurant and beverage establishments are required to maintain six feet of distance between tables
• Fitness centers may open indoor areas at 75 percent occupancy
• Recreation and entertainment venues at may operate at 50 percent occupancy, or a maximum of 1,000 persons
• Swimming pools may expand operations to free swim in addition to indoor and outdoor exercise, diving, and swim instruction, up to 75 percent occupancy

Again, what will not change—is the need for social distancing, face coverings and other precautions to protect our community from COVID-19. Read the Governor’s Phase 3 Guidance.

If you have concerns about compliance with Phase 3 guidelines, use the County’s new online reporting tool.

All establishments and businesses must implement the Governor’s mandatory requirements and must strictly adhere to the physical distancing guidelines, enhanced cleaning and disinfection practices, and enhanced workplace safety practices, or remain closed.

As part of a cautious approach to entering Phase 3, Governor Northam announced that bar seating will remain prohibited in restaurants to reduce the likelihood of patrons gathering in bar areas without observing social distancing guidelines. The Governor added he is prepared to implement tighter restrictions if needed.

Occupancy cannot exceed the lesser of 50% of the lowest occupancy load on the certificate of occupancy, if applicable, or 1000 patrons. All private bookings are limited to no more than 250 people.

Hot tubs, spas, saunas, splash pads, spray pools, and interactive play features must be closed. Overnight summer camps must remain closed in Phase 3.

Child care centers are allowed to open under Phase 3, with restrictions. The Virginia Department of Social Services has outlined guidelines for child care providers operating during Phase 3.

If you are looking for a childcare provider, our COVID-19 Real Time Child Care Directory now has availability listed for childcare centers and in-home childcare providers.

Child care centers remain open for children of working families. Additional child care facilities are able to open under Phase 2. The Virginia Department of Social Services has outlined guidelines for child care providers operating during Phase 2.

If you are looking for a childcare provider, our COVID-19 Real Time Child Care Directory now has availability listed for childcare centers and home day care providers.

Religious services may be held but must strictly adhere to the requirements outlined by the Governor’s office.

Executive Order Sixty-Three requires Virginians to wear face coverings in public indoor settings to help contain the spread of the novel coronavirus, starting Friday, May 29, 2020. The Governor’s statewide requirement for wearing face coverings is grounded in science and data, including recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) that individuals should wear face coverings in public settings. Face coverings do not take the place of public health guidelines to maintain 6 feet of physical distancing, increase cleaning and sanitation, and wash hands regularly.

Visit the Governor’s page for more information, including exceptions.

Learn more about face coverings in Arlington, including the We Are Covered program for businesses, multifamily properties, and religious organizations.

Sign up for Arlington Alert to receive FREE emergency alerts and other important information from Arlington County.

• The County Board approved this ordinance in the County’s efforts to reduce the transmission of COVID-19. We have community spread of COVID-19. It is a public health and safety issue, and spread is more likely when people are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet) and not wearing face coverings
• During the COVID-19 pandemic, this ordinance requires pedestrians to obey applicable signs and other signals erected on highways, streets and sidewalks in the County.
• Pedestrians are prohibited from congregating in groups four or more and must maintain a 6-ft. distance from others at all times.
• Violations of the ordinance shall constitute a traffic infraction and be punished by a fine of up to $100 for each offense.
• Prior to the start of enforcement in specific areas, Arlington County posts signs to help business patrons recognize the risk of up to $100 in fines.
• The goal remains to educate individuals and ask for voluntary compliance. However, if individuals refuse to follow the physical distancing ordinance, the County’s Police Department may issue a traffic infraction and a fine up to $100.
• This ordinance is in effect regardless of people who may be in the same family or members of the same household.

Read the ordinance | Read the news release | View the map of locations

• Since entering Phase 3 on July 1, 2020, Arlington County has experienced significant crowding on the public sidewalks, rights of way, and adjacent public spaces, sometimes for prolonged periods, while people are waiting for admission into the restaurants.
• To protect the public health and safety, including the prevention of death and illness, the County Board decided measures are necessary to prevent overcrowding on public sidewalks and streets, and to require adherence to physical distancing guidelines.

• While the ordinance is in effect as of July 31, 2020, enforcement was delayed while County Public Health Officials, the Police Department, and Fire Marshal visited and provided education for businesses and patrons about the importance of physical distancing, in an effort to build voluntary compliance.
• Public education remains focused on locations where there appears to be increasing numbers of individuals not adhering to the physical distancing requirements.
• Prior to the start of enforcement in specific areas, Arlington County posts signs to help business patrons recognize the risk of up to $100 in fines.
• In accordance with state law, the Board will hold a public hearing on the ordinance at its September 2020 County Board Meeting, before voting on whether to make it permanent.

See the posted sign | See the sidewalk decal | View the map of locations

• We also ask businesses and restaurants to provide alternative options to long lines for patrons wishing to enter their establishments.
• Examples include taking timed entry reservations, notifying people via text when their table is available, and other creative solutions.
• The Arlington Restaurant Initiative (ARI) is working with the Public Health Department and other agencies to ensure that restaurants are complying with the provisions of Governor Northam’s Executive Order. They are conducting regular visits to inspect and to educate owners about the importance of physical distancing, face coverings, and identifying opportunities for enhanced compliance.
• We are also asking our partners such as the BIDs, partnerships (CPRO, Lee Highway Alliance and Clarendon Alliance), and Chamber to help us get the word out.

• The signs are posted in areas where people aren’t complying with the physical distancing ordinance. Nearby businesses have been notified as well.
• The signs are posted on:
  - East side of 10th Street between the south side of Wilson Boulevard and N. Irving Street
  - North side of Wilson Boulevard between N. Irving and N. Hudson streets and west side of N. Hudson Street
  - North side of Wilson Boulevard between N. Garfield and N. Fillmore streets and west side of N. Fillmore Street
  - South side of Wilson Boulevard between N. Fillmore and N. Edgewood Street and east side of N. Fillmore Street
• The County is focused on gaining voluntary compliance through public education and hopes enforcement action may not be necessary.
• To assist business patrons with complying with the physical distancing ordinance, sidewalk decals also have been places outside popular nightlife areas in affected zones.

See the posted sign | See the sidewalk decal | View the map of locations

Arlington County Government is responsible for posting enforcement signs. If necessary, the police department may issue the citations.

Individuals can be fined, not businesses.

Visit the Commonwealth’s coronavirus information page for updated information on business operations, as well as full Phase Three Guidelines. In addition, the Governor has released a Forward Virginia: Phase Three FAQ with information for restaurant and beverage services, personal care and grooming, exercise and fitness, and more.

For information specific to Arlington businesses, visit Arlington Economic Development’s COVID-19 Business Support webpage.

Arlington is an innovative community, and many of our businesses have adjusted their operations during this pandemic to help each other and continue to provide services to the community. These efforts include curbside pick-up, free delivery, e-gift cards, and/or discounts on orders. Explore the many options.

NOTE: For specific questions about the requirements for business operations during Forward Virginia, visit the Governor's FAQ page.

Arlington Economic Development and BizLaunch are working to support businesses during this time. There is a resource webpage available for small businesses.

The U.S. Small Business Administration has Guidance for Businesses and Employers to Plan and Respond to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).

The Arlington County Board approved an administrative process to allow temporary outdoor seating areas (TOSAs) beyond those already permitted. TOSAs are intended to provide greater flexibility for businesses, while restrictions aimed at stopping the spread of COVID-19 limit the activity of restaurants and beverage establishments.

The County will consider TOSAs that may be in parking lots, sidewalks, and other public spaces. Temporary permits will be valid until the County terminates them. They are subject to periodic review and are revocable at any time, either all at once or on case-by-case basis.

The TOSA application is now available online, along with additional guidance

During Phase 3, farmers markets should continue to offer order ahead and pickup options. If markets choose to open, they must adhere to the additional requirements for outdoor service, per the Governor’s office. On-site shopping is allowed with physical distancing between tables/vendors and patrons.

See a list of all Arlington farmers markets.

Child care centers remain open for children of working families. Additional child care facilities are able to open under Phase 2. The Virginia Department of Social Services has outlined guidelines for child care providers operating during Phase 2.

If you are looking for a childcare provider, our COVID-19 Real Time Child Care Directory now has availability listed for childcare centers and home day care providers.

For information on how to protect yourself and your family and slow the spread of COVID-19, please visit our public health COVID-19 webpage.

For information on testing in Arlington County, please visit out COVID-19 testing webpage.

For details on testing in Arlington County, please visit our COVID-19 testing webpage.

Arlington Free Clinic, in partnership with Arlington County, operates a walk-up COVID-19 sample collection site at the Arlington Mill Community Center (909 South Dinwiddie Street) that is free of charge and does not require a doctor’s referral. Find more information on our COVID-19 Testing webpage.

Visitor and staff safety as well as sample integrity are our priorities at sample collection sites. We close our outdoor, drive-thru location due to severe weather like heavy wind and rain for the safety of those on site and because in heavy downpours, rain and other debris could potentially contaminate samples.

For information on contract tracing, visit our contract tracing webpage.

For information on long-term care facilities in Arlington, visit our COVID-19, Long-Term Care Facilities and the Role of Public Health webpage.

On June 5, the Arlington Department of Parks and Recreation reopened numerous park amenities in its 148 parks, including tennis courts, tracks, batting cages, bocce courts, the disc golf course, pickleball courts, and the skate park. Continuing its gradual reopening, in according with public health and safety guidelines, Arlington’s Department of Parks and Recreation reopened playgrounds and outdoor restrooms, including playgrounds located at Arlington Public Schools, effective Friday, June 26. Additionally, athletic field and court lighting returned to regular schedules. Effective July 8, DPR will begin Programs in the Parks (171 throughout the month of July).

Park users must continue to social distance and comply with the appropriate usage guidelines. Learn more on the Reopening Arlington Parks FAQ page.

Arlington County Police, park rangers, and park rovers will be monitoring parks, trails, playgrounds and fields to ensure compliance with social distancing and group gatherings.

• We anticipate a continued phased reopening for our Parks and Recreation facilities.
• On Friday, July 10, fitness rooms will reopen in four of DPR’s centers: Fairlington, Madison, Thomas Jefferson and Langston Brown.
• Community and nature centers and spraygrounds remain closed.
• We will continue to monitor guidance from the national, state, and local health officials to determine how best to open other amenities.
• The Washington-Liberty and Yorktown Pools re-open on Saturday, July 11th, 2020. Instructions to make a Reservation

• Given Governor Northam’s “Forward Virginia” blueprint for easing public health restrictions, the Department of Parks and Recreation has cancelled 2020 summer programs.
• We recognize how important recreation is to our residents.  We are exploring opportunities to provide modified programs and services both virtually and when our parks and community centers reopen. We appreciate your patience as we work through this difficult time.
• 2020 Summer Camp Programs have been canceled. Additional Information and Frequently Asked Questions can be found here.
• The following programs have been canceled for the summer 2020 session:
  • Enjoy Arlington classes
  • 55+ programs, trips and classes
  • Explore Nature & History programs
  • Summer Basketball and Adult Pick-up Soccer and Soccer Clinics
  • Summer Creative Playgroup
  • Summer Camps
• All Arlington County/Arlington Public Schools (APS) parks, playgrounds, fields, restrooms, tracks, dog parks and athletic courts remain closed until further notice.
• Parks & Recreation’s new Recreate at Home, launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, offers a constantly updated list of fun and safe things to do at home and outside while practicing social distancing.

2020 Summer Camp programs have been canceled. Additional Information and Frequently Asked Questions can be found here.

All holds placed before the pandemic are available for pickup at the Central Library Auditorium, Monday through Thursday (12:00 - 7:00 p.m.) and Friday through Sunday (12:00 - 5:00 p.m.). All Library locations are accepting returns in the book returns (all branches are otherwise closed). Additionally, some basic Library account services are now being offered: sign up for a library card, renew library cards, update temporary library cards, and update mailing address. See the Library FAQs for more information.

For the latest on status and services, please visit the WMATA website.

For the latest on status and services, please visit the ART website.

For your safety and the safety of others, all passengers are required to wear face masks or face coverings while using ART. Please see the Governor's order for more details.

If you need help with rent and expenses, are at risk of being evicted or homeless, need assistance with food or any other vital social service needs, contact the Housing and Food Assistance line at 703-228-1300. 

• If you become ill or need to isolate or self-quarantine, you may need help from other people—and other people may ask you for help. Now is the time to put plans in place and identify a BUDDY. You can request a buddy by visiting arlingtoncommunitycorps.org or calling 703-957-9727.
• Plan ahead and reach out—safely—to friends, neighbors, social and work networks, faith groups, and school and neighborhood associations to have people who can help and put a buddy system in place.
• This will make it easier to get things like food and medicine if you are unable to leave your home. We recommend that every household has two ‘buddy’ households to call upon for help if needed.
• For people who have difficulty identifying buddies, there is a new online tool. The Arlington Community Corps includes listings by Arlington neighborhood and is designed to link people who need help with nearby volunteers willing to help out—by delivering groceries and medication to other residents at higher risk from COVID-19.

See food, medical, and financial assistance resources for Arlington neighbors in need.

For information on housing assistance, rent payments, eviction prevention, and help with other vital social service needs, visit our Housing FAQs or call the Housing and Food Assistance Hotline at 703-228-1300.

• Arlington residents who lack reliable internet service at home during the COVID-19 pandemic can now benefit from five new free County Wi-Fi hotspots to access online resources for work, schooling, health-related information or to complete essential tasks such as ordering groceries and household supplies.
• Access to the ArlingtonWireless network is available at the Central Library,  Columbia Pike, and Aurora Highlands Library parking lots. Starting June 12, access will be available the Charles Drew Community Center and the Barcroft Sport and Fitness Center.
• Using a mobile device, choose the ArlingtonWireless network and accept the terms of agreement.
• Residents are asked to remain in their vehicles while on site to help mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus. Those who are not in vehicles should always maintain a physical distance of 6 feet apart and comply with public health guidelines.

• If you believe there is immediate danger, you can call 911 for police response. If you have concerns, but not immediate danger, please call the CPS Hotline. (703-228-1500).
• CPS Hotline workers are prepared to talk through concerns and we will be able to help you know if it is a child protection issue or if other types of support are needed. Not all calls to the Hotline will result in a response to the family home.
• Caller information is kept confidential and not share with family members. People worry that reporting concerns to CPS will destroy a family.  The truth is that getting help can protect children from further harm and assist the family in overcoming problems.

• We encourage anyone who feels they are unsafe with their partner or thinks a family member, friend, or colleague is unsafe -we encourage those people to call the hotline (703-237-0881); or police and seek support. There are services available today tomorrow and always. Services are safe, FREE and confidential.
• Resources are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week- including the Arlington domestic and sexual violence hotline at 703-237-0881, and the Safehouse shelter operated by Doorways for Women and Families, and post assault forensic medical exams provided by the forensic assessment consultation team (FACT) at Inova Fairfax Hospital which provides.
• There is support for the person who is harming too. If you know someone who is hurting or controlling their partner, there is support for that person. The Department of Human Services offers the abuser intervention program which is available to anyone seeking to change their harmful or abusive behavior. Learn more by calling 703-228-1513.

To report suspected adult abuse, neglect or exploitation:

• Call 703-228-1700  or 703-228-1788 (TTY) on weekdays from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and ask for the APS duty worker.
• After business hours, call the state hotline at 1-888-832-3858.

Federal: The federal income tax filing due date is automatically extended from April 15, 2020, to July 15, 2020. Taxpayers can also defer federal income tax payments due on April 15, 2020, to July 15, 2020, without penalties and interest, regardless of the amount owed. Learn details more on the IRS website.

State: The state also has taken steps to provide relief for taxpayers in Virginia, including payment extensions and penalty waivers. See details on the state website.

• During this unprecedented time, we encourage residents to be mindful of the quantity of waste we are throwing away so as not to overwhelm the collection system. Although all regular weekly curbside collection services are currently available, collection resources are beginning to show signs of strain.
• Due to COVID, there are a number of process changes for solid waste collection, including trash, recycling, yard waste, brush, and bulk collections. Visit DES recycle COVID website for specific services, dates, times, and locations.

• We have had a tremendous outpouring of concerned residents across Arlington. We appreciate all that Arlingtonians are doing to take care of one another.  Volunteer Arlington is updating a webpage with the needs from the County’s nonprofits, which is primarily goods and money and the occasional opportunities for in-person volunteering.