KNOX COUNTY, Tenn. — Tennessee Governor Bill Lee’s original Safer at Home order expired on April 30. Now, leaders are working to safely reopen businesses across the state.
RELATED: Gov. Lee: Tennessee's Safer at Home order will expire April 30, allowing most businesses to reopen
For millions, that process began this week. As of May 1, in 89 Tennessee counties:
- Restaurants and retail stores can reopen at 50% capacity
- Most state park trails and marinas are open
- Hospitals and doctor’s offices can resume elective procedures
- Churches and gyms can reopen with specific guidelines to follow under Governor Lee's Tennessee Pledge.
Davidson County, Hamilton County, Knox, Madison, Shelby and Sullivan Counties are exempt from the Tennessee Pledge because their respective health departments sets rules for the county.
Regardless of location, Gov. Bill Lee said individual faith communities can decide when to resume in-person services, though alternative options are still recommended.
Here's what remains closed in 89 Tennessee counties:
- Bars
- Live music venues
- Hair salons
- Barbershops
- Tattoo shops
Barbershops, hair salons and tattoo shops can reopen on May 6 under the governor's guidelines.
RELATED: What businesses opening in phase one of Knox County's plan need to know
But remember, this reopening plan is not the same for every city. Knoxville and Knox County leaders began their reopening phase on May 1.
Starting Friday in Knoxville and Knox County:
- Restaurants and retailers can reopen at 50% capacity
- Most state park trails and marinas are open
- Hospitals and doctor’s offices can resume elective procedures
- Gyms
- Hair salons, barbershops, and personal care businesses can all reopen under strict guidelines and protocols.
Here's what's closed in Knox County:
- Bars
- Theaters
- Sports leagues
- Libraries
- Playgrounds
- Pools and splash pads
This is phase one of the Knoxville Knox County reopening plan. Phase one will last for a minimum of 28 days.