DeLand Considering Special Events With Strict Safety Measures

DeLand, FL - It looks like the City of DeLand is bringing back special events, as long as they have safety precautions in place. Commission members made the decision on Monday (October 5th) that will allow the return of special events that have proper safety procedures in place. Special event permits will be accepted by the city, but organizers will be tasked with adhering to safety procedures to protect any event attendees from the possible spread of COVID-19. Applications must also be received 30 days prior to the proposed event date. And, according to a release from the city, failure to follow safety procedures could result in the event being stopped while in progress. Additionally, organizers risk not being permitted for future events in the City of DeLand. “The City Commission recognizes the importance of events to our community and our goal is to resume normal event operations when safely appropriate,” said DeLand Mayor Robert Apgar. “We also have to accept the reality that we are still in the middle of a pandemic and we must ensure as best we can the health, safety and wellbeing of our entire community .” It was also noted in DeLand’s release that city staff also reserve the right to deny permits that "fail to adequately address the required safety standards." A list of safety procedures was also provided in that same release. You can find it below. Before the event: Organizers will need to submit a complete COVID-19 event and site plan 30 days prior to event (includes handwash/sanitizing stations, COVID related signage, food/drink vendors, vendors, entry/exits). Vendors are to be spaced 12 feet apart and only on one side of the street. Develop a schedule for routine cleaning and disinfection. Pre-sold tickets or attendance counters to limit attendance once capacity is reached will be required.  Number of attendees will be predetermined by event organizer and City staff according to venue space and scope of event.  During the event: Attendees will be required to wear masks subject to exemptions provided in emergency ordinance 2020-12 such as eating and drinking, socially distance and to wash or sanitize their hands regularly. Event organizers will include signage throughout the event promoting these COVID related safety measures. Disposable masks should be made available for attendees without a mask.  Event volunteers and vendors must wear masks. Health Screening-temperature checks will be administered to staff, volunteers, and vendors before entry to the event.  Handwashing stations/sanitizing station with 60% alcohol at entrances, exits, food vendors and throughout their event foot print. All transactions should be no touch (contactless).  Announcements regarding COVID-19 requirements must be made periodically during the duration of the event. Create physical guides, such as tape on floors, signage on walls or temporary guardrails to promote social distancing. Common groups of no more than five (5) will be allowed per table if applicable.  At least two (s) entry/exits to discourage crowding. Food stations/vendors must have physical barriers, such as sneeze guards and partitions, in areas where food is being served or prepared. Volunteers to monitor restroom and food lines to keep people six feet apart. Food vendors must be space out to allow for socially distanced lines.  Food vendors must remove bulk condiments and replace with single serve.  When possible plated meals or boxed prepared food is preferred.  Tables, chairs and frequently used items must be sanitized on a schedule that will be outlined in your COVID-19 Event and Site Plan.