Dept. of Health Defines What it Means to be Designated a Nightclub in USVI, Clarifies Bryan's Recent Order

The V.I. Dept. of Health on Sunday issued what it deemed a clarification of Governor Albert Bryan's latest order announced last Tuesday for entertainment and dining establishments, while providing what the department said is the definition of being designated a nightclub in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The release followed the controversial shutdown of Bliss Bar & Lounge in Estate Glynn on Saturday ahead of a planned Halloween event the entertainment and dining venue had scheduled, costing the owners about $8,000, according to co-owner of Bliss Bar & Lounge Theo Sutherland.

D.O.H. described a nightclub in its clarification release as "every business which has a capacity for at least 30 persons seated at tables and the bar, and which maintains a bartender, table service, and dancing and/or other live entertainment for the guests."

It further stated that nightclubs "shall cease business and close doors to the public at 4:00 am and any night club that is enclosed 100 percent shall close its doors to the public at 5:00 am of every day except that night clubs which are surrounded by at least two dwellings within a distance of 100 feet on any two sides of said night club shall close at 1:00 am on weekdays and 2:00 am on Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays."

Relative to dancing at these establishments, D.O.H. said, "While dancing is now permitted, other Covid-19 safety practices must be adhered to. Persons still must wear their masks while dancing and try to social distance as much as possible from other couples or other people who may be dancing. Persons not dancing must remain seated. The seated service policy is still in effect. Bar stools and tables must be spaced 4-feet-apart. Food or beverages are only permitted to be served to patrons while they are seated."

The department further stated:

"Businesses must maintain social distancing and only allow 75% of their original capacity in an establishment provided that the social distancing measures are maintained. Mass gatherings are not permitted. Masks must be worn at all times unless eating or drinking.