City of Clearlake logoEffective immediately, City of Clearlake City Manager Alan Flora has issued an Emergency Order designed to assist Clearlake’s businesses in meeting the challenging operational requirements related to COVID-19.  This unprecedented action expedites, streamlines processes, and eliminates fees associated with utilizing outside space for business operations and mobile food vending.

Based on conversations with the business community, two of the greatest needs in order to get up to speed again are flexibility and enough space to achieve social distancing.  The May 21st Order allows businesses of all types to determine, if necessary, how they might expand into the adjacent outdoor space, whether it is public or private, in order to comply with federal, state, and local directives and guidelines to ensure compliance with Social Distancing Requirements and other COVID-19 risk mitigation measures.  Knowing that each business and location is unique, City Staff will process applications and evaluate on an individualized basis.

Additionally, the Order replaces the requirement for a Minor Use Permit and waives fees for mobile food vending and allows for additional business signage.

The Executive Order will remain in effect through December 31, 2020 or until the termination of the local emergency, whichever comes first.

“We believe that our business community is dedicated to ensuring customer safety during this unprecedented time,” says City Manager Flora. “We have seen the spirit, desire and creativity  of the business community reflected in identifying ways to navigate the new reality of COVID.  The City wants to help in any way possible to ensure the success of our businesses. This opportunity is one small idea where we can partner with the business community to help them get back to some semblance of a new normal.”

The full text of the Emergency Order and the Temporary Use Permit Application can be found at www.clearlake.ca.us.

For more information, please contact City Manager Alan Flora at aflora@clearlake.ca.us or (707) 994-8201