New Rule Limits Gatherings Effective Immediately

Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami announced Friday afternoon that effectively immediately, outdoor gatherings will be limited to 25 people under a recently amended emergency rule authorized by Gov. David Ige.  

“We have learned that many of the COVID clusters statewide were related to social gatherings – both indoors and outdoors – and often included people who had recently traveled,” stated Mayor Kawakami. “We need to proactively control these types of activities to help prevent a surge in cases here like the one O‘ahu is currently experiencing.” 

Amended Mayor’s Emergency Rule 13 went into effect upon Gov. Ige’s signature of approval on Thursday. The current rule limits outdoor gatherings of groups to 25 people or less, and keeps indoor gatherings to a maximum of 10 people.  

“While we discourage group gatherings, for those who must gather, we encourage you to do so outside,” added Mayor Kawakami.  

All gatherings, indoors and outdoors, are also subject to requirements to maintain physical distancing, wearing face coverings, and complying with other requirements of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The CDC says the highest risk category for transmission of COVID-19 is in large in-person gatherings, particularly where it is difficult for individuals to remain at least 6 feet apart and attendees travel from outside the local area. 

Emergency Rule 13 applies to casual, social gatherings and does not apply to allowable businesses, operations, or activities, pursuant to the Governor’s Emergency Proclamation.  

Any person violating any rule of the governor or mayor, if convicted, could face a fine of up to $5,000 or serve up to a year in jail.