Updated at 7:05 p.m.: Revised to include additional information from a Dallas County news conference.
Dallas County’s shelter-in-place order goes into effect at 11:59 p.m. Monday. Though the order will limit movement and force some businesses and workplaces to close, it is not a complete lockdown.
And it also doesn’t mean you have to stock up on more toilet paper.
Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins said Sunday that issuing this new order was a difficult decision, but that it was one made “based on science” after the death toll rose to three this past weekend.
“This order is our best chance to flatten the curve here in Dallas County and save as many lives as possible,” Jenkins said at a news briefing. “I know there will be economic hardship and business closures, and it makes me sick that we are at this point.”
Texas law grants Jenkins, who is the head of the county government, the legal authority to issue such a sweeping declaration when emergencies arise.
So what does that mean for Dallas County families? Here are some answers to some questions you might have.
Can I leave my house at all?
Yes. Jenkins’ order allows residents to leave their homes for activities like grocery shopping, getting medicine, going to the doctor and getting supplies needed to work from home. You are permitted to do these essential activities for the well-being of your family.
If you are leaving your house for work or to run errands, the county order strongly advises residents to practice social distancing, meaning staying about six feet away from others.
Jenkins said Monday people do not need to have any sort of proof that they need to be outside because the order presumes residents will perform their civic duties.
Do I still have to go to work?
That depends. If you work for a business that is considered “essential,” your employer may still require that you work. But if your place of employment is not considered an essential service, then the county’s order requires that your workplace be shut down until the order expires.
Some workplaces may apply for exemptions if they have repurposed their manufacturing efforts to build respirators, according to Jenkins’ order.
What is an “essential” business or service?
“Essential” areas of business or service in Dallas County’s order include health care, government functions, retail and infrastructure services. Groups providing help to vulnerable populations can also remain open.
That means grocery stores, pharmacies and clinics will remain open. Gas stations and liquor stores, too. Those working in plumbing, electrical services, waste management and other services will also work. Child care services will also remain open to those still going into work.
There’s a pretty comprehensive list of businesses and services that will remain functional at this time and you can read about them here.
Businesses that are not deemed essential and that defy the order may be taken to court.
“We have to put the life of our people above our livelihood,” Jenkins said at a news conference Monday.
Do I need to rush to the grocery store and stock up on goods?
No. Again, grocery stores will remain open. The new shelter-in-place order also limits toilet paper purchases to 12 rolls per purchase. If a pack has more than 12 rolls, shoppers will be limited to one package.
The new order also lifts delivery hour restrictions for stores to give retailers a chance to keep up with increased demand.
What if I live in Dallas County but work in another county?
If you work for a nonessential business or service located outside of Dallas County but are a resident of Dallas, then you are required by this order to remain at home. Jenkins clarified that during a Twitter Q&A Monday morning.
My office is out of county but I live in Dallas County. Can I go to work at the office of my out of county employer who is not an essential business under your order?
— Clay Jenkins (@JudgeClayJ) March 23, 2020
No. All Dallas County residents are covered by the order. Please tell your employer and show them order.
Can I still walk my dog? What about exercise?
Yes, use of public spaces is still allowed as long as you stay the recommended six feet away from other individuals in those public spaces. You can also still go jogging, hiking, walking and cycling.
Can Uber and Lyft still operate?
Jenkins said on Twitter on Monday that ride-hailing services, such as Uber and Lyft, as well as taxis are considered essential services.
How long does this order last?
The new order is in effect until April 3, but the Dallas County Commissioners Court can extend it — and Jenkins expects that will happen. On Monday he said the order could last months but he hopes it is shorter than that.
Jenkins said it would take the medical community recommending an end to the policy for him to lift it.
Will my church have services?
No. Religious institutions are required to close and can only provide conduct services via webcast. They must also limit on-site staff to 10 or less when preparing video for services.
What if I had a party planned at an events center?
All gatherings occurring outside a household, no matter the size, are prohibited under this order.
We invite you to ask Curious Texas, an ongoing project from The Dallas Morning News, what questions you have about the county’s new order.
Help us keep you informed.
Staff writer Tom Steele contributed to this report.
