São Paulo quarantine transition: state extends business operations by one hour

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Two weeks ago, the São Paulo State government began a transitional quarantine phase to gradually resume economic activity

The government of São Paulo has decided to extend business opening hours as of Saturday, May 8th. As a result, all establishments may now operate from 6 AM to 9 PM (previously until 8 PM). In addition, the capacity limit is increased from 25% to 30%. The new rule is still called “transition” and is in force until May 23rd.

The curfew has also been altered. It is now from 9 PM to 6 AM, whereas before it was from 8 PM to 5 AM. State and city parks may open from 6 AM to 6 PM. Remote work remains mandatory for non-essential administrative activities. The rules for schools have not been changed. Therefore, schools may operate at 35% capacity. City halls are granted autonomy to restrict the rules. The city of São Paulo is complying with the state decree.

Two weeks ago, the São Paulo government began the partial reopening of several commercial activities. These steps were called “transition phase” from the more restricted red quarantine to orange, with fewer restrictions. First, shopping malls and street stores were allowed to open, then restaurants, beauty salons, and gyms. Last weekend, establishments’ operation hours were extended.

The ICU bed occupancy rate in the state of São Paulo has been gradually dropping over the past few weeks. This Friday, May 7th, occupancy stands at 78%, lower than a week ago. The daily average of new admissions, considering ICUs and wards, has remained stable for two weeks, at 2,199. The daily average of deaths stands at 553, below the peak registered in early April, when it reached 890.

Quarantine rules in São Paulo in effect between May 8th and 23rd are below:

Commercial establishments, shopping malls, restaurants, salons and gyms: allowed to open from 6 AM to 9 PM, at 30% capacity;
Bars may only operate in restaurant mode, following the same rules;
Remote work is mandatory for administrative services;
Parks may open from 6 AM to 6 PM;
Cultural activities (museums, galleries, and the like): from 6 AM to 9 PM, at 30% capacity;
Curfew: from 9 PM to 6 AM
Churches and temples may open, at 30% capacity;
Schools may open at 35% capacity.