As this very different Fourth of July weekend begins, East Hampton Town has issued a reminder about regulations still in effect to stop the spread of Covid-19, particularly at its beaches.
East Hampton Town beaches, where face coverings must be worn in the parking lot, are open at 50-percent capacity. Catered events, such as clambakes and barbecues, are not permitted.
However, people may have uncatered clambakes and barbecues so long as the number of people does not exceed the gathering limit. With Long Island in phase three of reopening through at least Tuesday, groups up to 25 people are allowed.
Ocean beaches that are open and staffed by lifeguards are Indian Wells and Atlantic Avenue in Amagansett, and Kirk Park, South Edison, and Ditch Plain in Montauk. Three bay beaches are now open with lifeguards: Gin Beach in Montauk, Big Albert’s Landing in Amagansett, and Maidstone Park in Springs.
Social distancing of 10 feet is required on the beach between groups. Only low-risk sports are allowed. State guidelines for low-risk, moderate-risk, and high-risk sports are at this website.
Lifeguards are on duty from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and are authorized to enforce social distancing requirements. Comfort stations are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the use of social distancing markers is mandatory.
Beach fires are permitted in compliance with regulations as stipulated by the town fire marshal's office. Details can be found on the town's website here.
Nonresident parking permits are unavailable until further notice, but additional bike racks have been placed at beaches. There will be no fireworks displays this year, all such events in East Hampton having been canceled.
Off the beaches, indoor dining up to 50-percent capacity is allowed at restaurants, with tables spaced six feet away from each other. Up to 10 people are allowed per table. Bar seating is permitted with six-feet spacing. Outdoor dining has been permitted since New York entered phase two of its reopening schedule.
Face coverings are required in all public spaces if one cannot maintain a minimum six-foot distance from others.