A vaccine requirement takes effect in King County on Monday, October 25, putting new rules in place for the region’s nightclubs, music venues, and more.
That will apply to King County nightclubs and music venues, and partygoers will have to keep a few things in mind before leaving the house to ensure things go smoothly.
The basics
The requirement makes it so that patrons at bars, restaurants, entertainment venues, and large events will all have to present either proof of vaccination against COVID-19, or a negative test taken with 72-hours.
The card you were presented with when you were vaccinated after your second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine or your first dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine is your best bet for the most dependable form of proof. If possible, laminate it ahead of time to keep it in good condition, and always keep it secure when you leave your home with it.
For added security, take a clear photo of the front and back of the card and keep it stored on your phone. That photo will also be accepted as proof at most venues unless otherwise specified. Photocopies of cards are permitted as well.
You can also go to MyIRMobile.com for a printed certificate or QR code.
Do I still have to wear a mask?
A statewide mask mandate for indoor businesses and large outdoor events of over 500 people remains in place. That means you’ll still have to mask up for the foreseeable future despite the new vaccine requirements.
Patrons are only permitted to remove their masks unless they’re actively eating or drinking.
Will the rules be the same at every venue?
While King County’s requirements allow for proof of a negative test as an alternative to vaccination, businesses can choose to only accept proof of vaccination as a condition for entry.
You can check out a list of Seattle restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and music venues that do not accept proof of a negative test — and that require a valid matching ID — at this link, courtesy of Seattle Safe Night Out.
Strictly speaking, King County’s requirements also do not mandate that you present a matching ID. That said, individual venues are still allowed to require identification, so be sure err on the side of caution and always remember to bring your ID just in case.
How will this effect larger venues like WaMu Theatre, the Paramount, and Climate Pledge Arena?
Large events are included under these new requirements, but specific rules could potentially vary depending on the venue. You can check out individual vaccine policies for the city’s larger music venues below:
- WaMu Theatre
- Climate Pledge Arena
- Seattle Theatre Group (includes the Paramount, Moore, and Neptune Theatres)
- Showbox Presents (includes the Showbox Market and Showbox SoDo)
How long will this last?
King County public health officials say they plan to revisit these requirements six months after they’re implemented. That means they’ll be in place at least through April of 2022.
Head to Seattle-King County Public Health’s page at this link for full details on the new rules.
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