New York State says golf courses are permitted to allow individuals to play

Social distancing of six feet between all individuals must be enforced

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New York State says golf courses are now allowed to let individuals play on their courses, as long as social distancing is enforced to prevent any possible spread of COVID-19.

Golf courses were previously closed due to the NYS governor’s PAUSE Executive Order, which was recently extended to May 15.

The latest Empire State Development Guidance on Executive Order 202.6 (see #13), last updated on April 17, and currently reads:

"However, golf courses are not essential and cannot have employees working on-premise; notwithstanding this restriction, essential services, such as groundskeeping to avoid hazardous conditions and security, provided by employees, contractors, or vendors are permitted and private operators may permit individuals access to the property so long as there are no gatherings of any kind and appropriate social distancing of six feet between individuals is strictly abided."

The New York State Club Association this update means the following:

• There can be no employees working at the recreational component of the golf operation with the exception of security personnel

• Security personnel can be delineated by each club (ex. A pro and the head starter) and will be present to enforce social distancing

• No access is permitted to club facilities including but not limited to the club house, pro shop, bag room and locker room

• No caddies. No golf carts (except pull carts), you must either carry your own bag or use a pull cart.

• All golfers must maintain proper social distancing at all times, this is mandatory, no exceptions

• Allowing guests is to be determined by the security personnel on the golf course

• Maintenance personnel are permitted to work on the golf course

• Clubs are strongly advised to provide a printed copy of the new guidance to security personnel, as local law enforcement may come to a club and may not be aware of the new guidance.

Does this mean courses like Webster Golf Club are now open? This is currently unknown. However, Webster Golf Club shared a Facebook post on April 16 asking followers to sign a petition to open NYS golf courses.

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