Questions about the stay at home coronavirus order in Fort Worth? Here are some answers.
Many people have questions about stay at home orders issued this week in Fort Worth and Tarrant County due to the coronavirus.
Generally, stay at home decrees limit residents to travel only for essential errands, such as going to the grocery store, gas station, pharmacy, hospital or bank. Such orders don’t limit outdoor activity, such as walking or biking, but with the decrees handed down in Texas on Tuesday, outside gatherings are banned. Social gatherings of any number are banned except when they are limited to members of the same household.
These mandates are designed to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus, which causes a flu-like illness that is potentially fatal, said Fort Worth code compliance director Brandon Bennett.
All residents must stay home unless they are traveling for essential business and all non-essential businesses should be closed, he said in a briefing.
The Star-Telegram has been taking questions about the coronavirus and local officials’ responses to it through a Google form, as well as by email and phone.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and the answers:
How will this be enforced?
Local law enforcement and code compliance officers will begin with warnings designed to educate the public about the stay at home order. Penalties can include a fine up to $1,000 or jail time up to 180 days. The order expires April 7, though officials could extend the orders.
Fort Worth police officers are not pulling drivers over to check if they are adhering to the declaration, Chief Ed Kraus said Wednesday, and checkpoints are not set up. Documentation is not required to be out.
Code enforcement officers are visiting businesses that are considered non-essential but are open.
My company is not listed as essential, but my boss says I have to come to work. What should I do?
If you have a question about your company’s status as essential, the Fort Worth COVID-19 hotline, 817-392-8478, can help. The city is encouraging residents to check with their company regarding coronavirus-related procedures. While the city can restrict what businesses are open, it does not determine how companies handle staffing issues.
Tarrant County Judge Glen Whitley has said any employee who feels sick should not go to work, regardless of whether his or her job is essential. He alluded to potentially punishing employers who violate the city and county decrees.
Is municipal court closed?
Fort Worth’s Municipal Court locations have been closed to physical public access until further notice for all civil or criminal citation cases since Monday. Appearances, hearings, court and due dates are extended until May 15.
Can I mow my yard, trim my hedges or sit on my porch?
Yes, now is a great time to catch up on yard work. Since you can’t get your hair cut at the barber, you might as well keep your grass trimmed. Landscaping companies are listed as essential.
Can I go for a walk, run or bike ride? What about my kickball league?
Yes outdoor exercise is fine, and even encouraged so folks can stay healthy. But a 6-foot distance must be maintained between people. Games such as basketball, softball, kickball, football and soccer are not allowed as players are often in close contact and sharing the ball. Police or code compliance officers may break up pick-up games.
Fort Worth’s parks and the Trinity Trail system remain open, again as long as people maintain a wide distance from each other. Playgrounds in Fort Worth are closed to limit exposure to high touch objects.
You can also walk your dog.
Be outside as much as you like, just don’t be outside near strangers.
I live in one county but work in another, what should I do?
Tarrant County officials have repeatedly stressed that people should limit contact with others and work from home whenever possible. Regulations about essential businesses vary from county to county, so check directly with officials where your work is located.
Can I move out of my home or apartment?
Movers, and those in the process of moving, are deemed essential activities under the orders. Social distancing is encouraged.
Are recycling centers, industrial or otherwise, essential?
Yes, recycling is a key part of sanitation.
I see people working on construction sites, is that OK?
Yes, construction and related businesses, are considered essential, according to the city and county. The city is discouraging new projects from beginning for the time being.
Can real estate agents continue to sell property?
Real estate transactions are essential functions, according to the city and county decrees. However, Whitley has said agents should not show houses to new customers.
How does this impact child custody? Should children stay with one guardian, or are weekend or other visits still allowed?
Specific questions about child custody should be handled by an attorney.
How has emergency response changed?
All emergency calls will be answered, but the way they are answered may change.
Since last week, many first responders and code compliance officers have been outfitted with full-body protective gear, including gloves and masks.
Both the Fort Worth police and fire departments are exploring using web cam links to assess 911 calls before dispatching responders. Health-related calls may be handled through telemedicine in the form of video or audio calls when appropriate, Fire Chief Jim Davis said.
Can I still take the bus?
Yes. To reduce the risk of exposure, Trinity Metro buses, vans and trains are cleaned daily. Some route schedules have changed, so check with Trinity Metro for the latest information.
Have a question that was not answered here? Call a COVID-19 hotline at 817-392-8478 or email COVID19@fortworthtexas.gov. More information can be found on a city of Fort Worth coronavirus website.
This story was originally published March 25, 2020 at 5:59 PM.
