Governor Polis said many retail stores will open on May 1, with strict precautions.

Polis said the data is showing that the stay-at-home order has been effective in combating the spread of COVID-19, with the daily hospitalization rate leveling off and even a slight downward trend in the growth curve.

The state will transfer to a “safer-at-home” model with a path forward that maintains 60% to 65% social distancing on April 27 after the “stay-at-home” order expires.

Many retail stores will open on May 1st with spacing rules that adheres to the 6-foot rule, one-way aisles, decals on the floor and employees wearing face masks.

Under the safer-at-home model, the general public is:

  • Encouraged to stay at home unless necessary.
  • Strongly advised to wear face coverings when out.
  • No gatherings over 10 people.
  • Sick people may not go to work.
  • Avoid unnecessary travel.

Vulnerable populations, including seniors and people with underlying health conditions, should continue to stay at home and avoid going out in public, Polis said.

Here are the businesses that will be allowed to open and their precautions after the expiration of the stay-at-home order:

Non-critical offices

  • 50% open with strict precautions.
  • Large workplaces advised to have symptom/temperature checks.
  • Telecommuting maximized.

Restaurants/bars/event venues

  • Takeout/delivery only.
  • Exploring phased-in reduced capacity opening.

Childcare

  • Open, with strict precautions.

Educational institutions (colleges/K-12)

  • Closed.

Personal services (hair and nail salons, tattoo parlors, dog grooming, personal trainers, etc.)

  • Open, with strict precautions.

Elective medical procedures 

  • Open, with strict precautions including PPE and ability to meet critical care needs.

Real estate

  • Showings allowed, with strict precautions and social distancing.
  • Open houses not allowed.