Frequently Asked Questions about Birmingham’s shelter-in-place ordinance
The Birmingham City Council has approved a “shelter-in-place” ordinance to combat the spread of COVID-19. Learn more about the ordinance here.
What exactly does Mayor Randall L. Woodfin’s shelter-in-place order mean, and can I leave home?
On March 24, 2020, Mayor Woodfin presented a shelter-in-place ordinance to be approved by the Birmingham City Council in an effort to curb the spread of the coronavirus. The council approved the ordinance, which encourages people to stay home and only travel for essential purposes. These purposes include work; visiting essential business such as grocery stores, financial institutions, and gas stations; retrieving curbside pickup from restaurants; and attending doctor’s appointments. Also, exercising outside, including biking, hiking and running, are allowed as long as six feet of social distancing is used.
When will it start and when will it end?
The council first approved it on March 24, 2020, and it has been extended thru April 30, 2020.
Is this a form of martial law?
No, it is not martial law. People will not be arrested for leaving their home. However, no more than 10 people should gather, and people are encouraged to keep 6 feet between them and the next person. There is no need for special passes to travel from one place to another.
Which businesses can remain open during the shelter-in-place order?
The City of Birmingham is following the suggestions of the Jefferson County Department of Health, which issued an order on essential businesses that may stay open and non-essential businesses that need to close in the fight to help stop the spread of the coronavirus. (Go here to see the list). If a business is not specifically listed as non-essential by the county health department, then that business or organization is cleared to operate and practice social distancing and health protocols as stated by the Jefferson County Department of Health.
In those cases, if a business decides to continue offering services, they should use their best judgment to keep their employees and patrons safe. And this may include teleworking.
The county health department continues to monitor the situation and provide guidance as the threat of the coronavirus develops for Jefferson County and Alabama.
Where can I go to get more information about the order and what the City of Birmingham is doing during the coronavirus crisis?
Please visit birminghamal.gov/coronavirus. Also, text BHMCOVID to 888-777 for the latest updates and information.
Will public transportation still run during this time?
At this time, MAX buses will continue to run. Please consult with MAX to ensure buses are still running for the route that you need.
Will VIA (Birmingham On-Demand) still run?
Yes, until further notice, the drivers will still offer rides in the original zone that have been served since VIA launched in December 2019. VIA will continue to run during its normal hours. The hours are Monday – Friday, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Due to the threat of the coronavirus, there is now a three-passenger limit to ensure safe distancing in the vehicles. Also, additional sanitation methods have been put in place for all VIA vehicles.
A few areas have been added to the edges the pick-up zone. Please visit birminghamal.gov/via for all locations.
