Exhibit 6
DALLAS COUNTY

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AMENDED ORDER OF COUNTY JUDGE CLAY JENKINS

Safer At Home Order

DATE AMENDED ORDER ISSUED: April 23, 2020

WHEREAS, pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 418.108, Dallas County Judge Clay 

Jenkins issued a Declaration of Local Disaster for Public Health Emergency on March 12, 2020,

due to a novel coronavirus now designated SARS-CoV2 which causes the disease COVID-19;

WHEREAS, on March 12, 2020, Judge Jenkins issued an Order in furtherance of his authority to 

protect the safety and welfare of the public by slowing the spread of the virus;

WHEREAS, the on-going evaluation of circumstances related to the virus and the updated 

recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and the Texas Department of State Health

Services warrant the March 12, 2020 Order of County Judge Clay Jenkins be amended;

WHEREAS, on March 16, 2020, President Trump acknowledged the gravity of the COVID-19 

pandemic, releasing strict new guidelines to limit people’s interactions, including that Americans 

should avoid groups of more than 10 people; 

WHEREAS, on March 19, 2020, the Dallas County Commissioners Court issued an Order of 

Continuance of Declaration of Local Disaster for Public Health Emergency that affirmed the 

activation of the Dallas County Emergency Management Plan and extends the Declaration of Local 

Disaster until 11:59 p.m. on May 15, 2020, unless rescinded by order of the Commissioners Court.

WHEREAS, on March 24, 2020, the World Health Organization indicated that the United States 

has the potential to become the center of the COVID-19 pandemic;

WHEREAS, this Emergency Order is necessary because of the propensity of the virus to spread 

person to person and also because the virus is physically causing property damage due to its 

proclivity to attach to surfaces for prolonged periods of time;

WHEREAS, this Emergency Order is necessary to protect the lives, health, welfare, and safety of 

the County’s residents from the devastating impacts of this pandemic;

THEREFORE, the March 12, 2020, Order of County Judge Clay Jenkins is hereby AMENDED 

as follows:

Summary: The virus that causes 2019 Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) is easily transmitted

through person to person contact, especially in group settings, and it is essential that the spread of 

the virus be slowed to protect the ability of public and private health care providers to handle the 

influx of new patients and safeguard public health and safety. Because of the risk of the rapid 

spread of the virus, and the need to protect the most vulnerable members of the community, this 

Order requires all individuals anywhere in Dallas County to shelter in place – that is, stay at home 

– except for certain essential activities and work to provide essential business and government 

services or perform essential public infrastructure construction, including housing. This Order 
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takes effect Noon on April 23, 2020 and will continue through 11:59 p.m. on May 15, 2020, subject 

to the limited exceptions and under the terms and conditions more particularly set forth below. 

UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE

SECTION 418.108, DALLAS COUNTY JUDGE CLAY JENKINS ORDERS:

1. Effective as of Noon on April 23, 2020, and continuing until 11:59 p.m. on May 15, 2020:

(a) All individuals currently living within Dallas County are ordered to shelter at 

their place of residence. For the purposes of this Order, residences include 

hotels, motels, shared rentals, and similar facilities. To the extent individuals 

are using shared or outdoor spaces, they must at all times as reasonably as 

possible maintain social distancing of at least six feet from any other person 

when they are outside their residence. All persons may leave their residences 

only for Essential Activities, Reopened Services, or to provide or perform 

Essential Governmental Functions, or to operate Essential Businesses, all as 

defined in Section 2.

(b) All businesses operating within Dallas County, except Essential Businesses and 

Reopened Services as defined in below in Section 2, are required to cease all 

activities at facilities located within the County except Minimum Basic 

Operations as defined in Section 2. For clarity, businesses may continue 

operations consisting exclusively of employees or contractors performing 

activities at their own residences (i.e. working from home). To the greatest 

extent possible, all Essential Businesses shall comply with the Social 

Distancing Rules attached, including maintaining six feet social distancing for 

both employees and the general public. 

(c) Employees of Essential Businesses and Reopened Services, whose physical 

presence at the workplace is not essential to operations, are directed to use 

telecommuting to the fullest extent possible.

(d) All public or private gatherings of any number of people occurring outside a 

single household or living unit are prohibited, except as otherwise provided 

herein. Nothing in this Order prohibits the gathering of members of a household 

or living unit.

2. Definitions:

a. For purposes of this Order, individuals may leave their residence only to perform 

any of the following “Essential Activities”:

i. To engage in activities or perform tasks essential to their health and safety, 

or to the health and safety of their family or household members (for 

example, obtaining medical supplies or medication, visiting a health care 

professional, or obtaining supplies need to work from home).

ii. To obtain necessary services or supplies for themselves and their family or 

household members, or to deliver those services or supplies to others (for 

example, food, pet supply, and any other household consumer products, and 

products necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation, and essential operation 

of residences.
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iii. To engage in outdoor activity, provided the individuals comply with social 

distancing requirements of six feet (for example, walking, biking, hiking, 

running, golfing, and tennis).

iv. To perform work providing essential products and services at an Essential 

Business or to otherwise carry out activities specifically permitted in this 

Order.

v. To care for a family member or pet in another household.

vi. To move to another residence either in or outside Dallas County.

vii. To engage in “Essential Travel,” which includes travel for any of the 

following purposes: (1) travel related to the provision of or access to 

Essential Activities, Essential Governmental Functions, Essential 

Businesses, Reopened Services, Essential Critical Infrastructure, and 

Minimum Basic Operation; (2) travel to care for elderly, minors, 

dependents, persons with disabilities, or other vulnerable persons; (3) travel 

to or from educational institutions for purposes of receiving materials for 

distance learning, for receiving meals, and any other related services; (4) 

travel to return to a place of residence from outside the jurisdiction; (5) 

travel required by law enforcement or court order; (6) travel by church staff 

or clergy for the purpose of production of remote delivery of religious 

services and other ministries requiring travel; (7) travel related to attending 

a funeral service; or (8) travel required for non-residents to return to their 

place of residence outside the County. 

b. For purposes of this Order, “Reopened Services” means:

i. Retail services that are not “Essential Businesses” under this Order.

ii. Effective 12:01 a.m. on Friday, April 24, 2020, Reopened Services shall be 

provided only through pickup, delivery by mail, or delivery to the 

customer’s doorstep. Customers may not enter the premises.

iii. All Reopened Services shall comply with the following requirements:

1. All employees must be trained on environmental cleaning and 

disinfection, hand hygiene, and respiratory etiquette.

2. All employees must be screened before coming into the business for 

new or worsening cough; shortness of breath; sore throat; loss of 

taste or smell; feeling feverish or a measured temperature greater 

than or equal to 100.0 degrees Fahrenheit; or known close contact 

with a person who is lab-confirmed to have COVID-19. Any 

employee who meets any of these criteria must be sent home.

3. Employers must provide soap and water, or hand sanitizer if no soap 

or water is available, in the workplace, including all restrooms and 

food preparation areas.

4. Employees must wash their hands for at least twenty (20) seconds 

before beginning work, after each interaction with a customer,

before any food preparation, before and after the use of shared items, 

after any meal or restroom breaks, and immediately prior to the end 

of the work shift.

5. All employees must wear face coverings.
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6. Employees must maintain at least 6 feet separation from one 

another.

iv. All Reopened Services providing services through Retail-to-Go shall 

comply with the following conditions:

1. All payments shall be done over the phone or internet if possible, 

and contact shall be minimized if remote payment is not available.

2. Purchased items shall be delivered by the employee to the backseat 

or trunk of the customer’s vehicle whenever possible to minimize 

physical contact with the customer.

3. Employees must wash or sanitize their hands after each interaction 

with a customer, and whenever possible, must disinfect any item that 

came into contact with the customer.

v. All Reopened Services providing services through delivery to a customer’s 

residence or business shall comply with the following conditions:

1. All payments shall be done over the phone or internet if possible, 

and contact shall be minimized if remote payment is not available.

2. Purchased items shall be delivered by an employee or third-party 

carrier and delivered to the customer’s residence or business. The 

employee or third-party carrier may not enter the customer’s house 

or business.

vi. All Reopened Services providing services through delivery by mail shall 

comply with the following conditions:

1. All payments must be done over the phone or internet.

2. Purchased items shall be delivered by mail without customer 

contact.

c. For purposes of this Order, “Essential Businesses” means:

i. Essential Healthcare Operations. Healthcare Operations includes but is 

not limited to hospitals, clinics, dentists, chiropractors, physical therapy, 

optometry offices, pharmacies, pharmaceutical and biotechnology 

companies, other healthcare facilities, healthcare suppliers, mental health 

providers, substance abuse service providers, blood banks, medical 

research, laboratory services, certified doulas, or any related and/or 

ancillary healthcare services. Home-based and residential-based care for 

seniors, adults, or children are also considered healthcare operations. 

Healthcare operations also includes veterinary care and all health and 

welfare services provided to animals. This exemption shall be viewed 

broadly to avoid any impacts to the delivery of healthcare. Healthcare 

operations do not include fitness and exercise gyms, personal training, 

gymnastics studios, and similar facilities. Healthcare operations do not 

include elective medical, surgical, and dental procedures as established in 

accordance with Subsection 1(e) of this Order.

ii. Essential Governmental Functions. All services provided by local 

governments needed to ensure the continuing operation of the government 

agencies to provide for the health, safety and welfare of the public. Each 

governmental body will determine its Essential Governmental Functions 
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and identify the employees and/or contractors necessary to the performance 

of those functions. Further, nothing in this order shall prohibit any 

individual from performing or accessing “Essential Governmental

Functions.” All Essential Governmental Functions shall be performed in 

compliance with social distancing requirements of six feet, to the extent 

possible. This Order does not apply to Federal or State Government. 

iii. Essential Critical Infrastructure. All public and private facilities and 

assets, including both physical and cyber systems, and other functions and 

sectors vital to the security, governance, and public health, safety of Dallas 

County. Critical infrastructure includes, but is not limited to, utilities such 

as electricity, gas, water and wastewater, roads and highways, public 

transportation, solid waste and recycle collection and removal, oil refining, 

roads and highways, public transportation, defense and national securityrelated operations, and manufacturing operations suppling essential items 

to Essential Businesses, Essential Governmental Functions, and Critical 

Infrastructure. All manufacturers and distributors shall comply with the 

Rules for Manufacturers and Distributors set out in Exhibit C. Critical 

Infrastructure employers should implement screening precautions to protect 

employees and all activity shall be performed in compliance with social 

distancing guidelines attached. For reference, the U.S. Department of

Homeland Security in its Guidance on the Essential Critical Infrastructure 

Workforce, Version 2.0, can be found here: 

https://www.cisa.gov/publication/guidance-essential-criticalinfrastructure-workforce

iv. Stores that Sell Groceries and Other Essential Supplies. Grocery stores, 

supermarkets, warehouse stores, big-box stores, bodegas, liquor stores, 

convenience stores, and farmers’ markets that sell food products and 

household consumer products (such as cleaning and personal care 

products). This includes stores that sell groceries and also sell other nongrocery products. The sale of self-service food items is prohibited. Stores 

that sell groceries and other essential supplies shall comply with the Rules 

for Essential Retail Establishments set out in Exhibit A.

v. Restaurants. Restaurants with or without drive-in or drive-through services 

and microbreweries, micro-distilleries, or wineries may only provide take 

out, delivery, or drive-through services as allowed by law. In-person service 

is prohibited. Customers may order and pay inside, but are prohibited from 

waiting inside the restaurant for their food. All food must be brought outside 

to customers. To allow for increased access to restaurants, this Order hereby 

suspends all laws and regulations prohibiting people from walking in a 

drive-through. 

vi. Food Cultivation. Food cultivation, including farming, fishing, and 

livestock. 

vii. Delivery of Groceries and Essential Supplies. Businesses that ship or 

deliver groceries, food, hygiene products, and essential supplies directly to 
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residences or essential businesses. All businesses that deliver groceries and 

essential supplies shall comply with the rules set out in Exhibit E.

viii. Transportation. Operation, maintenance, and repair of airlines, taxis, and 

other private transportation providers (such as Uber and Lyft) that provide 

transportation services necessary for the performance of essential activities 

and essential travel.

ix. Gas Stations and Businesses Needed for Transportation. Gas stations, 

auto dealers, auto-supply stores, auto-repair, and bicycle repair. Gas stations 

and convenience stores are prohibited from selling self-service food items.

Gas stations and businesses needed for transportation shall comply with the 

Rules for Essential Retail Establishments set out in Exhibit A.

x. Critical Trades. Plumbers, electricians, exterminators, janitors, lawn care 

services, pool cleaners, maintenance and security, and other service 

providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, 

sanitation, and essential operations of residences, Essential Businesses, 

Essential Government Functions, and Critical Infrastructure. Critical Trade 

does not include discretionary maintenance or improvements. Union 

representatives and their staff for the purpose of performing critical labor 

union functions, including the maintenance of health and welfare funds and 

checking on the well-being and safety of members.

xi. Construction. Construction for public works, residential, commercial, and 

schools. Elective additions and maintenance are prohibited. Protecting 

construction worker from the spread of COVID19 is extremely important 

for their safety and for public health, all construction sites must follow the 

COVID-19 Safety Recommendations issued by the Construction Industry 

Safety Coalition, including, but not limited to, the Rules for Construction 

Industry set out in Exhibit B. Failure to strictly comply with this Order can 

result in penalties described below. Additionally, the general contractor and 

non-compliant subcontractor can be removed from the essential business 

list.

xii. Professional Services. Professional services, such as legal or accounting 

services, when necessary to assist in compliance with legally mandated 

activities or services necessary to avoid imminent harm to a client. Real 

estate and inspection services, so long as they comply with the rules set out 

in Exhibit F.

xiii. Financial Institutions. Banks and related depository financial institutions, 

credit unions, insurance companies, title companies, payroll and accounting 

services. Check cashing businesses and pawnshops so long as they comply 

with the rules set out in Exhibit D. A copy of Exhibit D must be prominently 

displayed in each establishment in English and Spanish and a copy must 

also be provided to each customer in the customer’s preferred language. 

xiv. Information Technology Services/Telecommunications Services. IT and 

IT services and their essential service vendors, including the provision of 

essential global, national, and local infrastructure for computing services, 

business infrastructure, communications, and web-based services, and 
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critical manufacturing, as well as telecommunications services, internet 

access and broadband/communications services. 

xv. Essential Retail. Laundromats, dry cleaners, and laundry service providers, 

hardware stores, and related facilities. Firearm and ammunition suppliers 

and retailers for purposes of safety and security. Hardware stores and 

business that sell electrical, plumbing, and other materials necessary to 

support Essential Businesses, and Essential Government Functions, and 

Critical Infrastructure. Essential retail establishments shall comply with the 

Rules for Essential Retail Establishments set out in Exhibit A.

xvi. Fabric Stores. Stores that sell fabric, for the sole purpose of selling fabric 

and supplies necessary for the creation of fabric cloth coverings and masks

and supplies necessary for home schooling students. Stores that sell fabric 

shall comply with the Rules for Essential Retail Establishments set out in 

Exhibit A.

xvii. Hotels and Motels. Hotels and motels, to the extent used for lodging or 

delivery or carry-out food services. 

xviii. Short-Term Rentals. Short-term rental of all or part of a residential 

property to a person who is not a permanent resident is prohibited. Within 

the meaning of this Order, a “permanent resident” is a person who has the 

right to use or possess a room at the residential property for at least 30 

consecutive days, so long as there is no interruption of payment for the 

period. This Order does not prohibit short-term rental to hospital employees 

or other licensed healthcare professionals, military personnel, law 

enforcement personnel, government employees, or Dallas County residents 

who need a place to self-quarantine away from their family and/or 

roommates. Renters currently occupying short-term rental properties shall 

be permitted to complete the current rental contract but are required to 

follow the requirements of this order

xix. Providers of Basic Necessities to Economically Disadvantaged 

Populations. Businesses or organizations that provide food, shelter, and 

social services, and other necessities of life for economically disadvantaged 

or otherwise needy individuals. 

xx. Essential Services Necessary to Maintain Essential Operations of 

Residences or Other Essential Businesses. . Businesses or services that 

supply other Essential Businesses, Essential Government Services, and 

Critical Infrastructure with the support or supplies needed to operate; 

including but not limited to mail, shipping and delivery services, 

warehouse/distribution and fulfillment, storage, moving services, janitorial 

services, laundry services, computer, audio or video electronics, sanitary 

equipment, and medical equipment.. To the extent possible, services shall 

be provided in compliance with Social Distancing Rules attached, 

including distancing of six feet and routine use of hand sanitizer. All 

employers that are common carriers, motor carriers, private carriers, 

shippers, delivery services, moving companies and contract carriers that
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load or unload cargo, supplies, equipment or goods at any point located in 

Dallas County shall comply with the rules set out in Exhibit E.

xxi. Supplies to Work From Home and Home School Students. Businesses 

that supply products needed for people to work from home and stores that 

sell supplies necessary for home schooling students. Stores that sell 

supplies for people to work from home shall comply with the Rules for 

Essential Retail Establishments set out in Exhibit A.

xxii. Public and Private Education. All schools are closed to in-person 

classroom attendance and shall not recommence before the end of the 2019-

2020 school year. Public and private educational institutions may operate 

in-person only for the purposes of facilitating distance learning or 

performing essential functions, provided compliance with the Social 

Distancing Rules is maintained.

xxiii. News Media. Newspapers, television, radio, and other media services.

xxiv. Childcare Services. Childcare facilities providing services or community 

service providers offering childcare services under the following 

mandatory conditions:

1. Childcare services shall only be provided to employees of Essential 

Businesses;

2. Childcare must be carried out in stable groups of 12 or fewer 

(“stable” means that the same 12 or fewer children are in the same 

group each day);

3. Children shall not change from one group to another;

4. If more than one group of children is cared for at one facility, each 

group shall be in a separate room. Groups shall not mix with each 

other;

5. Childcare providers shall remain solely with one group of children.

xxv. Animal Care Services. Animal shelters, veterinary care, and pet food and 

supply stores. Grooming, if necessary for the health and wellbeing of the 

animal. Pet daycare, but only for employees of Essential Businesses. To the 

greatest extent possible, all services must be performed in compliance with 

social distancing requirements of six feet. Pet food and supply stores shall 

comply with the Rules for Essential Retail Establishments set out in Exhibit 

A.

xxvi. Religious and Worship Services. The Office of the Dallas County Judge 

and the Health Authority strongly encourage religious and worship 

services be provided by audio, video, and teleconference whenever 

possible and that all individuals follow all CDC and County Social 

Distancing Guidelines including the six feet social distancing rule. 

xxvii. Funeral Services. Funeral, mortuary, cremation, burial, cemetery, and 

related services, provided that social distancing of six feet per person is 

maintained to the greatest extent possible.

d. For purposes of this Order, Minimum Basic Operations means the following, 

provided that employees comply with the Social Distancing Rules:
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i. The minimum necessary activities to maintain the value of the business's 

inventory, ensure security, process payroll and employee benefits, or for 

related functions.

ii. The minimum necessary activities to facilitate employees of the business 

being able to continue to work remotely from their residences.

e. Covering of Nose and Mouth: Because an infected person can transmit the 

COVID-19 virus to others before showing any symptoms, the covering of a 

person’s nose and mouth is necessary to help slow the spread of the virus. Effective 

at 11:59 p.m. on April 17, 2020, to the greatest extent possible all persons over the 

age of two (2) shall wear some form of covering over their nose and mouth, such 

as a homemade mask, scarf, bandana or handkerchief, when patronizing an 

Essential Business or using public transportation pursuant to the rules outlined in 

Exhibit G. Parents and Guardians of children under 10 shall be responsible for 

appropriately masking children pursuant to this Order. To the greatest extent 

possible, all non-medical employees who work at an Essential Businesses or 

perform services that are exempt under this Order must wear face coverings over 

their noses and mouths while performing their work. An owner or operator of an 

Essential Business may refuse admission or service to any individual who fails to 

wear face covering. Wearing a face covering is not a substitute for maintaining 6-

feet social distancing and hand washing, as these remain important steps to slowing 

the spread of the virus. The enforcement provisions set forth in Section 3 of this

Order shall not apply to any violation of this provision or Exhibit G and no law 

enforcement officer shall stop, detain, or arrest any person based on any such 

violation.

3. The Dallas County Sheriff’s Office, the Dallas County Fire Marshal’s Office, and other 

peace officers, are hereby authorized to enforce this Order. A violation of this order may 

be punishable through criminal or civil enforcement. A violation of this Order is a 

misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed $1,000 and/or confinement in jail for a 

term not to exceed 180 days.

4. Any manufacturer who retools their business for the purpose of manufacturing and 

producing ventilators, masks, personal protective equipment, or any supply necessary for 

Essential Healthcare Operations may apply for an “essential business” exemption under 

this Order. Apply for a business exemption at https://www.dallascounty.org/covid19/ways-to-help.php under the “Apply for an Essential Business Exemption” tab.

5. All Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) Recovery 

Payments to individuals shall be exempt from “garnishment” as that term is described in 

Chapter 63 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, except for garnishment for 

child support payments. All CARE Act Payments shall remain exempt from garnishment 

when deposited into an account in a financial institution. This provision is enacted to ensure 

Dallas County residents can use their CARES Act Recovery Payments for their housing, 

food, medical and other essential needs during the COVID-19 emergency period. 

6. All public, private, and commercial laboratories operating within Dallas County and 

performing COVID-19 testing shall report by 5:00 p.m. each day for the prior 24-hour 

period:
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a. The number of COVID-19 tests performed; and

b. The number of positive COVID-19 tests.

Reports shall be made to Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins at 

Clay.Jenkins@dallascounty.org and Dallas County Health and Human Services Director 

Dr. Philip Huang at Philip.Huang@dallascounty.org. Reporting laboratories shall not 

provide names or any other identifiable health information that could be used to identify 

an individual patient. 

7. Door-to-door solicitation creates an unnecessary face-to-face situation for residents who 

are home in greater numbers due to the closure of schools and businesses, potentially 

endangering the health of residents. Under this Order, door-to-door solicitation is 

prohibited, including the leaving of written materials on the door or mailbox of a residence. 

This provision does not apply to any business in the grocery supply chain or any non-profit 

providing community resources for those effected by the coronavirus. Nothing in this Order 

prohibits utility companies or government agencies from contacting individuals at their 

residences to perform their normal business functions.

8. Employers shall not implement any rules making a negative COVID-19 test or a note from 

a healthcare provider a requirement before a COVID-19 recovered employee can return to 

work. 

9. Under this Order, no person shall sell any of the following goods or services for more than 

the regular retail price the person charged for the goods or services on March 16, 2020, 

except where an increased retail price is the result of increased supplier or other costs 

(including the loss of supplier supporting funds):

a. groceries, beverages, toilet articles, and ice;

b. restaurant, cafeteria, and boarding-house meals; and

c. medicine, pharmaceutical and medical equipment, and supplies.

10. Grocery stores, supermarkets, warehouse stores, hospitals, and medical facilities are 

experiencing high levels of demand for a large number of products, requiring more 

deliveries from manufacturers and distribution centers to serve their customers. A number 

of Texas cities and local associations have implemented restrictions on delivery hours to 

stores to mitigate truck noise and traffic. Due to the need to deliver products as quickly and 

efficiently as possible during this critical timeframe, this Order hereby suspends all 

delivery hour restrictions for transport to or from any entity involved in the selling or 

distribution of food products, medicine, or medical supplies in Dallas County for the next 

60 days.

11. Due to increased demand for bath or toilet tissue resulting from stock up buying and 

individuals who purchase for resale, a mandatory limit on toilet paper sales is instituted 

until the supply chain meets the demand or two weeks, whichever comes first. All sales of 

bath or toilet tissue occurring in Dallas County are limited to the greater of: (a) twelve (12) 

rolls per purchase or (b) one (1) package per purchase. This provision does not apply to the 

sale of bath or tissue paper to a government organization or essential business. 

12. Due to the public health emergency, the Office of the Dallas County Judge hereby advises

the Dallas County Justices of the Peace to suspend eviction hearings and writs of 
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possession for at least the next 60 days to prevent renters from being displaced. Nothing in 

the moratorium relieves tenants of liability for unpaid rent. Landlords should cap late fees 

for delayed payment of rent at fifteen dollars ($15) per month.

13. If someone in a household has tested positive for coronavirus, the household is ordered to 

isolate at home. Members of the household cannot go to work, school, or any other 

community function, except for workers included in Essential Healthcare Operations who 

may continue to work in accordance with CDC guidance.

14. Nursing homes, retirement, and long-term care facilities are instructed by this Order to 

prohibit non-essential visitors from accessing their facilities unless to provide critical 

assistance or for end-of-life visitation.

15. Public and private schools and institutions of higher education are instructed by this Order 

to provide a safety plan to Dallas County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency 

Management 72 hours before students return to a classroom setting.

16. Additionally, the Office of the Dallas County Judge and the Health Authority instructs all 

employees to remain at home if sick. Employees of private businesses and nonprofits with 

six (6) or more employees in the City of Dallas can use their paid sick leave when they are 

sick or to care for sick family members.

17. This Order shall be in effect until 11:59 p.m. on April 30, 2020, or until it is either

rescinded, superseded, or amended pursuant to applicable law.

18. The County of Dallas must promptly provide copies of this Order by posting on the Dallas 

County Health and Human Services website. In addition, the owner, manager, or operator 

of any facility that is likely to be impacted by this Order is strongly encouraged to post a 

copy of this Order onsite and to provide a copy to any member of the public asking for a 

copy. If any subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or word of this Order or any application 

of it to any person, structure, gathering, or circumstance is held to be invalid or 

unconstitutional by a decision of a court of competent jurisdiction, then such decision will 

not affect the validity of the remaining portions or applications of this Order.

IT IS SO ORDERED

CLAY JENKINS

DALLAS COUNTY JUDGE
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EXIBIT A

Rules for Essential Retailers

Reason for Rules. The purpose of these rules is to outline the steps that every employer and 

employee must take to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19. The rules describe how to prevent 

worker exposure to coronavirus and protective measures to be taken in all establishments.

Definition of Essential Retailers.

1. Stores that Sell Groceries and Other Essential Supplies. Grocery stores, supermarkets, 

warehouse stores, big-box stores, bodegas, liquor stores, convenience stores, and farmers’ 

markets that sell food products and household consumer products (such as cleaning and 

personal care products). This includes stores that sell groceries and also sell other non-grocery 

products. 

2. Gas Stations and Businesses Needed for Transportation. Gas stations, auto dealerships, autosupply stores, auto-repair, and bicycle repair. 

3. Other Essential Retailers. Stores that sell supplies necessary for the creation of fabric cloth 

coverings and masks and supplies necessary for home schooling students. Pet food and supply 

stores. Laundromats, dry cleaners, and laundry service providers, hardware stores, and related 

facilities. Firearm and ammunition suppliers and retailers for purposes of safety and security. 

Hardware stores and business that sell electrical, plumbing, and other materials necessary to 

support Essential Businesses, and Essential Government Functions, and Critical Infrastructure.

Safety Rules for All Essential Retailers. All employers involved in essential retail activity must 

follow the requirements set forth in the rules below: 

1. All employees must take their temperature at their residence before going to an Essential 

Retailer. If an employee has a temperature above 99.6 degrees Fahrenheit, then they are 

prohibited from going to work and must remain at their residence;

2. To the greatest extent possible and as equipment becomes available, an Essential Retailer must 

implement a system whereby supervisors must check the temperature of all employees with a 

forehead thermometer before the employee begins work. If an employee has a temperature 

above 99.6 degrees Fahrenheit, then they are not permitted to work and must be sent home 

immediately;

3. Gatherings during meals or breaks are prohibited;

4. Employees must keep a 6 foot distance between people at all times, unless the work being 

performed requires multiple individuals for the safety of the employees;

5. Employers must allow non-essential personnel to work from home when possible;

6. Employers must provide soap and water, or hand sanitizer if no soap or water is available, in 

the workplace, including all restrooms and food preparation areas. Ensure that adequate 

supplies are maintained; 
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7. Employees must wash their hands for at least twenty (20) seconds before beginning work, 

before any food preparation, before and after the use of shared items, after any meal or restroom 

breaks, and immediately prior to the end of the work shift. 

8. Rest breaks of at least fifteen (15) minutes for every four (4) hours worked must be provided 

so employees may follow hygiene guidelines;

9. There shall be no adverse action taken against an employee who has, due to possible exposure 

to coronavirus, (1) been quarantined or advised to self-quarantine; (2) have not reported to 

work because the employee has a temperature of 99.6 degrees or higher; and (3) requested to 

use paid sick leave under the employer’s policy; and

10. Employers must designate both a member of management as the COVID-19 Safety Monitor

and a senior hourly worker (that is not a member of management) as the COVID-19 Vice 

Safety Monitor at each store to have the authority to work together to enforce these rules. 

Employers in unionized workplaces should consult with the employee’s representatives on this

designation.

General Rules for Essential Retailers. 

1. Employers shall implement an organized line system where employees, customers, and 

other persons are not less than six feet apart at all times;

2. To the greatest extent practicable, designate shopping times for at risk populations (seniors, 

pregnant people, and people with underlying health conditions);

3. To the greatest extent possible, implement a system to restrict the number of customers 

who are physically present at an Essential Retailer so that six foot spacing may be 

maintained;

4. Employers shall implement purchase limits on high-demand items (toilet paper, soap, hand 

sanitizer). These purchase limits do not apply to a government organization or essential 

business; 

5. To the greatest extent possible, employers shall offer pick up services or delivery services 

of grocery items and other essential supplies; and

6. Self-service food stations are prohibited. Self-service stations are defined as items that 

customers use common serving utensils to serve themselves, including but not limited to, 

salad bars, hot dog stands, self-service bulk food items, and other related food items. This 

section does not apply to self-checkout stations, so long as the checkout stations are cleaned 

at least every 30 minutes. 

Enforcement. A violation of this Order is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed 

$1,000 and/or confinement in jail for a term not to exceed 180 days. Additionally, any essential 

retailer who fails to strictly comply with these rules can be removed from the essential business 

list and prohibited from operating in Dallas County.
DALLAS COUNTY

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EXHIBIT B

Rules for the Construction Industry

Reason for Construction Rules. The purpose of these rules is to outline the steps that every 

employer and employee must take to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19. The rules 

describe how to prevent worker exposure to coronavirus, protective measures to be taken on the 

jobsite, and cleaning and disinfecting procedures.

Construction as Critical Infrastructure. The Order classified construction for public works, 

residential, commercial, and schools as critical infrastructure. Elective additions and 

maintenance are prohibited.

Requirements for Construction. All employers involved in construction activity must follow 

the requirements set forth in the COVID-19 Safety Recommendations issued by the Construction 

Industry Safety Coalition, including the rules below: 

1. All workers and contractors (hereafter referred to as “workers”) must take their temperature 

at their residence. If a worker has a temperature above 99.6 degrees Fahrenheit, then they 

are prohibited from going to work and must remain at their residence;

2. To the greatest extent possible, implement a system whereby supervisors must check the 

temperature of all workers and contractors with a forehead thermometer before the worker 

begins work. If n worker or contractor has a temperature above 99.6 degrees Fahrenheit, 

then they are to be sent home immediately;

3. To the greatest extent possible, shift work must be implemented such that each shift shall 

have no more than fifty percent (50%) of the workers who were on shift on March 16, 

2020. Once assigned to a shift, workers shall not change from one shift to another;

4. To the greatest extent possible, limit crossover of subcontractors;

5. Gatherings during meals or breaks are prohibited;

6. Workers must keep a 6 foot distance between people at all times, unless the work being 

performed requires multiple individuals for the safety of the workers;

7. Workers must not use a common water cooler. Employers shall provide individual water 

bottles or instruct workers to bring their own;

8. Employers must allow non-essential personnel to work from home when possible;

9. Employers must provide soap and water and hand sanitizer in the workplace, including all 

restrooms. Ensure that adequate supplies are maintained; 

10. If running water is available at the site, workers must wash their hands for at least twenty 

(20) seconds before beginning work, when they remove gloves, and before and after the 

use of shared items such as tools or multi-user devices, before and after any meal or 

restroom breaks, and when their shift or work time ends. 

11. Rest breaks of at least fifteen (15) minutes for every four (4) hours worked must be 

provided so workers may follow hygiene guidelines;

12. Employers must provide one (1) working flushing toilet for every fifteen (15) workers on 

site or one (1) outdoor portable toilet for every 10 workers on site; 

13. There shall be no adverse action taken against a worker who has, due to possible 

exposure to coronavirus, (1) been quarantined or advised to self-quarantine; (2) have not 
DALLAS COUNTY

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reported to work because the worker has a temperature of 99.6 degrees or higher; and (3) 

requested to use paid sick leave under the employer’s policy; and

14. Employers must designate a COVID-19 safety monitor on each site who has the authority 

to enforce these rules; 

Enforcement. A violation of this Order is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed 

$1,000 and/or confinement in jail for a term not to exceed 180 days. Additionally, any general 

contractor or subcontractor who fails to strictly comply with these rules can be removed from the 

essential business list and prohibited from operating in Dallas County.
DALLAS COUNTY

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EXHIBIT C

Rules for Manufacturers and Distributors

Reason for Rules. The purpose of these rules is to outline the steps that every employer and 

employee must take to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19. The rules describe how to prevent 

worker exposure to coronavirus, protective measures to be taken on the jobsite, and cleaning and 

disinfecting procedures.

Definition of Critical Manufacturers and Distributors. This Order defines Critical 

Manufacturing and Distribution as the industries listed in the U.S. Department of Homeland 

Security in its Guidance on the Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce, Version 2.0.

Rules for Manufacturers and Distributors. All employers involved in critical manufacturing 

and distribution activity must follow the requirements set forth in the rules below: 

1. All employees must take their temperature at their residence before going to work at a 

manufacturing or distribution center. If a worker has a temperature above 99.6 degrees 

Fahrenheit, then they are prohibited from going to work and must remain at their residence;

2. To the greatest extent possible and as equipment becomes available, employers must 

implement a system whereby supervisors check the temperature of all employees before the 

employee begins work. If an employee has a temperature above 99.6 degrees Fahrenheit, then 

they are not permitted to work and must be sent home immediately;

3. Gatherings during meals or breaks are prohibited;

4. Employees must keep a six (6) foot distance between people at all times, unless the work being 

performed requires multiple individuals for the safety of the employees;

5. To the extent practicable, employers shall adjust shift timing to allow for greater physical 

distance between employees;

6. Employers must allow non-essential personnel to work from home when possible;

7. Employers must provide soap and water, or hand sanitizer if no soap or water is available, in 

the workplace, including all restrooms. Employers shall ensure that adequate supplies of soap 

and hand sanitizer are maintained; 

8. Employees must wash their hands for at least twenty (20) seconds before beginning work, 

before any food preparation, before and after the use of shared items, after any meal or restroom 

breaks, and immediately prior to departing the work site. 

9. Employers shall discourage employees from sharing work tools when possible.

10. Rest breaks of at least fifteen (15) minutes for every four (4) hours worked must be provided 

so employees may follow hygiene guidelines;

11. There shall be no adverse action taken against an employee who has, due to possible exposure 

to coronavirus, (1) been quarantined or advised to self-quarantine; (2) have not reported to 

work because the worker has a temperature of 99.6 degrees or higher; and (3) requested to use 

paid sick leave under the employer’s policy; and

12. Employers must designate both a member of management as the COVID-19 Safety Monitor 

and a senior hourly employee (that is not a member of management), or a non-management 
DALLAS COUNTY

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employee if an hourly employee is not available, as the COVID-19 Vice Safety Monitor at 

each site to have the authority to work together to enforce these rules. Employers in unionized 

workplaces should consult with the employee’s representatives on this designation.

Enforcement. A violation of this Order is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed 

$1,000 and/or confinement in jail for a term not to exceed 180 days. Additionally, any 

manufacturer and distributor who fails to strictly comply with these rules can be removed from the 

essential business list and prohibited from operating in Dallas County.
DALLAS COUNTY

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EXHIBIT D

Rules for Financial Institutions

Reason for Rules. The purpose of these rules is to outline the steps that every employer and 

employee must take to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19. The rules describe how to prevent 

worker exposure to coronavirus, protective measures to be taken on the jobsite, and cleaning and 

disinfecting procedures.

1. Check Cashing Businesses

Application. For the purpose of this Order, “Check Cashing Business” means a person or entity 

that for compensation engages, in whole or in part, in the business of cashing checks, drafts, money 

orders, traveler’s checks or other instruments for the transmission or payment of money. This 

Order does not apply to a retail seller engaged primarily in the business of selling consumer goods, 

including consumables, to retail buyers that cash checks or issue money orders as a service to its 

customers that is incidental to its main purpose or business.

Interest and Fees. Fees shall not exceed 2% of the amount of the check, draft, or money order, or 

$2, whichever is greater. Interest on a loan or advance of money shall not exceed 15% per annum 

of the total amount of the advance, provided that total fees associated with the loan do not exceed 

$75, regardless of the name or type of charge. A check cashing business may charge only those 

charges expressly authorized in this Order in connection with a loan or advance issued.

Safety Rules. All check cashing businesses must follow the requirements set forth in the rules 

below:

a) All employees must take their temperature at their residence before going to work. If an 

employee has a temperature above 99.6 degrees Fahrenheit, then they are prohibited from 

going to work and must remain at their residence;

b) To the greatest extent possible and as equipment becomes available, employers must 

implement a system whereby supervisors must check the temperature of all workers and 

contractors with a forehead thermometer before the worker begins work. If a worker has a 

temperature above 99.6 degrees Fahrenheit, then they are to be sent home immediately;

c) Employees must keep a 6 foot distance between people at all times, unless the work being 

performed requires multiple individuals for the safety of the workers;

d) Employers shall restrict the number of customers physically present in the store to only 

those people necessary to complete the transaction as determined by the customer. All other 

individuals must remain outside the store while the transaction is completed; 

e) Employers must allow non-essential personnel to work from home when possible;

f) Employers must provide soap and water, or hand sanitizer if no soap or water is available, 

in the workplace, including all restrooms and food preparation areas. Employers must 

ensure that adequate supplies are maintained; 

g) Employees must wash their hands for at least twenty (20) seconds before beginning work, 

before any food preparation, before and after the use of shared items, after any meal or 

restroom breaks, and immediately prior to the end of the work shift; 
DALLAS COUNTY

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h) Rest breaks of at least fifteen (15) minutes for every four (4) hours worked must be 

provided so workers may follow hygiene guidelines; and

i) There shall be no adverse action taken against a worker who has, due to possible exposure 

to coronavirus, (1) been quarantined or advised to self-quarantine; (2) have not reported to 

work because the worker has a temperature of 99.6 degrees or higher; and (3) requested to 

use paid sick leave under the employer’s policy.

2. Pawnshops

Application. These rules apply to all locations or premises at which a pawnbroker regularly 

conducts business.

Interest and Fees. Interest on a loan of money extended pursuant to a pawn transaction shall not 

exceed 15% per annum of the total amount of the advance, provided that total fees associated with 

the loan do not exceed $75, regardless of the name or type of charge. A pawnshop may charge 

only those charges expressly authorized in this Order in connection with a pawnshop loan.

Minimum Term Length. A pawnshop shall hold the goods pledged as collateral for at least 120 

days after the end of the Emergency Declaration issued by Judge Jenkins or the end of the 

Emergency Declaration issued by Governor Abbott, whichever is later.

Safety Rules. All pawnshops must follow the requirements set forth in the rules below:

a) All employees must take their temperature at their residence before going to work. If an 

employee has a temperature above 99.6 degrees Fahrenheit, then they are prohibited from 

going to work and must remain at their residence;

b) To the greatest extent possible and as equipment becomes available, employers must 

implement a system whereby supervisors must check the temperature of all workers and 

contractors with a forehead thermometer before the worker begins work. If a worker has a 

temperature above 99.6 degrees Fahrenheit, then they are to be sent home immediately;

c) Employees must keep a 6 foot distance between people at all times, unless the work being 

performed requires multiple individuals for the safety of the workers;

d) Employers shall restrict the number of customers so that only one customer is physically 

present in the store at a time;

e) Employers must allow non-essential personnel to work from home when possible;

f) Employers must provide soap and water, or hand sanitizer if no soap or water is available, 

in the workplace, including all restrooms and food preparation areas. Employers must 

ensure that adequate supplies are maintained; 

g) Employees must wash their hands for at least twenty (20) seconds before beginning work, 

before any food preparation, before and after the use of shared items, after any meal or 

restroom breaks, and immediately prior to the end of the work shift; 

h) Rest breaks of at least fifteen (15) minutes for every four (4) hours worked must be 

provided so workers may follow hygiene guidelines; and

i) There shall be no adverse action taken against a worker who has, due to possible exposure 

to coronavirus, (1) been quarantined or advised to self-quarantine; (2) have not reported to 
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work because the worker has a temperature of 99.6 degrees or higher; and (3) requested to 

use paid sick leave under the employer’s policy.

3) Enforcement

Enforcement. A violation of this Order is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed 

$1,000 and/or confinement in jail for a term not to exceed 180 days. Additionally, any financial 

institution who fails to strictly comply with these rules can be removed from the essential business 

list and prohibited from operating in Dallas County.
DALLAS COUNTY

21

EXHIBIT E

Rules for Common Carriers, Shipper, Delivery Services, and Related 

Companies

Reason for Rules. The purpose of these rules is to outline the steps that every employer and 

employee must take to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19. The rules describe how to prevent 

worker exposure to coronavirus, protective measures to be taken on the jobsite, and cleaning and 

disinfecting procedures.

Definition of Common Carriers. All employers which are common carriers, motor carriers, 

private carriers, shippers, delivery services, moving companies and contract carriers which load or 

unload cargo, supplies, equipment or goods at any point located in Dallas County.

Rules for Common Carriers. All employers involved in trucking, shipping, delivery and moving 

services, and related industries must follow the requirements set forth in the rules below: 

1. All employees must take their temperature at their residence before going to work. If a 

worker has a temperature above 99.6 degrees Fahrenheit, then they are prohibited from 

going to work and must remain at their residence; 

2. To the greatest extent possible and as equipment becomes available, employers must 

implement a system whereby supervisors check the temperature of all employees before 

the employee begins work. If an employee has a temperature above 99.6 degrees 

Fahrenheit, then they are not permitted to work and must be sent home immediately; 

3. Gatherings during meals or breaks are prohibited; 

4. Employees must keep a six (6) foot distance between people at all times, unless the work 

being performed requires multiple individuals for the safety of the employees; 

5. To the extent practicable, employers shall adjust shift timing to allow for greater physical 

distance between employees, including coordination between dispatch and scheduling so 

that there is no overlap between crews traveling to different locations; 

6. Employers must allow non-essential personnel to work from home when possible; 

7. Employers must provide soap and water, or hand sanitizer if no soap or water is available, 

in the workplace, including all restrooms. Employers shall ensure that adequate supplies of 

soap and hand sanitizer are maintained. Hand sanitizer must be available in each vehicle; 

8. Workers must wash their hands for at least twenty (20) seconds before beginning work, 

before any food preparation, before and after the use of shared items, after any meal or 

restroom breaks, and immediately prior to the end of the work shift; 

9. Employers must ensure that employees use gloves when handling shared tools or 

equipment (such as dollies, dock plates, and controls) and that employees wash their hands 

for at least 20 seconds after handling such tools or equipment;

10. To the greatest extent possible, drivers and other personnel should stay in their vehicles 

while the vehicles are being loaded and unloaded, unless required for employee safety; 
DALLAS COUNTY

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11. To the greatest extent possible, receipts, bills of lading, acknowledgements and other such 

documentation should be electronic so as minimize the need for personnel to physically 

sign and exchange documents;

12. Rest breaks of at least fifteen (15) minutes for every four (4) hours worked must be 

provided so workers may follow hygiene guidelines;

13. There shall be no adverse action taken against a worker who has, due to possible exposure 

to coronavirus, (1) been quarantined or advised to self-quarantine; (2) has not reported to 

work because the worker has a temperature of 99.6 degrees or higher; and (3) requested to 

use paid sick leave under the employer’s policy; and

14. Employers must designate both a member of management and an employee who is not a 

member of management COVID-19 safety monitors at each of the business’s warehouses, 

yards or other locations who have the authority to work together to enforce these rules. 

Employers in unionized workplaces should consult with the employee’s representatives on 

this designation.

Enforcement. A violation of this Order is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed 

$1,000 and/or confinement in jail for a term not to exceed 180 days. Additionally, any common 

carrier or related business who fails to strictly comply with these rules can be removed from the 

essential business list and prohibited from operating in Dallas County.
DALLAS COUNTY

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EXHIBIT F

Rules for Real Estate Agents

Reason for Rules. The purpose of these rules is to outline the steps that every Agent/Employee 

must take to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19. The rules describe how to prevent exposure 

to coronavirus and protective measures to be taken in all real estate showing.

Definition of Real Estate Activity. For the purposes of this Order, real estate activity includes 

any activity governed by the Texas Real Estate License Act, the Inspector Act, the Residential 

Service Company Act, and the Timeshare Act.

Safety Rules for All Real Estate Agents/Employees. All realtors and their employees involved 

in essential real estate activity must follow the requirements set forth in the rules below: 

1. Open Houses are prohibited;

2. All realtors and their employees (hereafter referred to as “realtors”) must take their 

temperature at their residence prior to any real estate showing. If an agent has a temperature 

above 99.6 degrees Fahrenheit, they are prohibited from participating in any real estate 

showings and must remain at their residence;

3. Realtors and clients must travel to showings in separate vehicles;

4. Realtors, clients, and homeowners must follow the six-foot social distancing rule at all 

times;

5. Realtors and staff should limit in person contact and conduct business remotely as much 

as possible;

6. Realtors must wear a protective mask and provide new, unused protective masks to clients 

when touring a site;

7. Employers must designate a COVID-19 safety monitor at each real estate office who has 

the authority to enforce these rules;

Enforcement. A violation of this Order is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed 

$1,000 and/or confinement in jail for a term not to exceed 180 days. Additionally, any realtor who 

fails to strictly comply with these rules can be removed from the essential business list and 

prohibited from operating in Dallas County.
DALLAS COUNTY

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EXHIBIT G

Guidance on Covering Nose and Mouth

A significant percentage of individuals with the COVID-19 virus lack symptoms. Because an 

infected person can transmit the virus to others before showing any symptoms, the covering of a 

person’s nose and mouth when visiting an Essential Business is necessary to help prevent the 

spread of COVID-19. This is consistent with the findings of the CDC and Dallas County Health 

Authority.

Staying home is the best way to help reduce the spread of the virus, but if an individual must leave 

their place of residence to visit an Essential Business, wearing a fabric face mask shall be used as 

outlined in this Order. Wearing a face covering is not a substitute for maintaining 6-feet social 

distancing and hand washing, as these remain important steps to slowing the spread of the virus.

The face coverings recommended are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators, which are critical 

supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and first responders. 

The public in general and Essential Business employees shall comply with the following:

A. To the greatest extent possible, all persons over the age of two (2) shall wear some form of 

covering over their nose and mouth, such as a homemade mask, scarf, bandana or 

handkerchief, when: 

1) patronizing an Essential Business; and 

2) using public transportation, taxis, or ride shares.

B. This section shall not apply to persons that are: 

1) riding in a personal vehicle;

2) that are alone in a separate single space;

3) that are in the presence only of other members of their household or residence;

4) engaging in outdoor activity;

5) eating; or

6) when wearing a covering poses a greater mental or physical health, safety or 

security risk such as anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, 

incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the cover without assistance.

Children under the age of two (including infants) should not wear cloth face coverings. Those 

between the ages of two and nine should use them but under adult supervision to ensure that the 

child can breathe safely and avoid choking or suffocation. Children with breathing problems 

should not wear a face covering. Parents and Guardians of children under 10 shall be responsible 

for appropriately masking children pursuant to this Order.

All COVID-19 Suspected Positives, those currently being tested, and untested individuals with 

cough and/or fever, and household members of same category of individuals shall not leave their 

residence without a mask or cloth face covering to prevent the spread to others. 
DALLAS COUNTY

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To the greatest extent possible, all individuals working for an Essential Business must wear a mask 

or cloth face covering whenever in public and whenever performing job duties in the presence of 

others. To the greatest extent possible, employers shall provide employees with a mask or face 

covering. An owner or operator of an Essential Business may refuse admission or service to any 

individual who fails to wear face covering.

Medical grade (N95) and surgical masks should be reserved and used only by medical 

professionals and first responders. Cloth face coverings are not intended for use by healthcare 

workers, first responders, and others whose work requires close contact with people who are ill.

Cloth coverings should be made in accordance with CDC Guidance, which can be found here: 

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html
DALLAS COUNTY

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DCHHS Social Distancing Rules

1) Vulnerable Populations: Limit Outings

 Vulnerable populations include people who are:

o 60 years old and older.

o People with certain health conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, 

kidney disease and weakened immune systems.

 For vulnerable populations, don’t go to gatherings unless it is essential. Stay home. Avoid 

people who are sick.

2) Workplace and Businesses: Minimize Exposure

 Suspend nonessential employee travel.

 Ensure employees practice social distancing and do not work within six feet of one 

another.

 Urge essential employees to stay home when they are sick and maximize flexibility in 

sick leave benefits.

 Do not require a doctor’s note for employees who are sick.

 Maximize telecommuting options.

 Persons who need to be at work to provide essential services of great benefit to the 

community must take steps in their workplace to minimize risk.

3) Cancel Non-essential Events

 Cancel non-essential events.

 Do not attend any events or gatherings if sick.

 For events that aren’t cancelled, we recommend:

o Having hand washing capabilities, hand sanitizers and tissues available.

o Frequently cleaning high touch surface areas like counter tops and hand rails.

o Finding ways to implement social distancing.

4) Schools: Safety First

 Do not have your child attend school if sick.

 If you have a child with chronic health conditions, consult the child’s doctor about school 

attendance.

 Schools should equip all classrooms with hand sanitizers and tissues.

 Recommend rescheduling or cancelling events that are not essential.

 Explore remote teaching and online options to continue learning.

 Schools should develop a plan for citywide school closures, and families should prepare 

for further closures.

5) Transit: Cleaning and Protection

 Increase cleaning of vehicles and high touch surface areas.

 Provide hand washing/hand sanitizers and tissues in stations and on vehicles.

 Ensure social distancing practices are implemented to the full extent possible.
DALLAS COUNTY

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6) Health Care Settings: Avoid as possible, protect the vulnerable

 Long-term care facilities should have a COVID-19 plan in accordance with CDC or state 

guidelines.

 Long-term care facilities should restrict all visitation except for certain compassionate 

care situations, such as end of life situations.

 The general public should avoid going to medical settings such as hospitals, nursing 

homes and long-term care facilities, even if you are not ill.

 If you are ill, call your health care provider ahead of time, and you may be able to be 

served by phone.

 Do not visit emergency rooms unless it is essential.

 Follow guidance and directions of all facilities.

7) Everyone: Do your part

The best way for all Dallas County residents to reduce their risk of getting sick, as with seasonal 

colds or the flu, still applies to prevent COVID-19:

 Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

 Cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue. Throw the tissue in the trash. 

 Stay home if you are sick.

 Avoid touching your face.

 Try alternatives to shaking hands, like an elbow bump or wave.

 If you have recently returned from a country, state or region with ongoing COVID-19 

infections, monitor your health and follow the instructions of public health officials and 

CDC guidance. 

You can also prepare for the disruption caused by an outbreak. Preparedness actions include:

 Prepare to work from home if that is possible for your job, and your employer.

 Make sure you have a supply of all essential medications for your family.

 Prepare a child care plan if you or a caregiver are sick.

 Make arrangements about how your family will manage school closures.

 Plan for how you can care for a sick family member without getting sick yourself.

 Take care of each other and check in by phone with friends, family and neighbors that are 

vulnerable to serious illness or death if they get COVID-19.

 Keep common spaces clean to help maintain a healthy environment for you and others. 

Frequently touched surfaces should be cleaned regularly with disinfecting sprays, wipes 

or common household cleaning products.