San Francisco will stop requiring proof of vaccination to enter some indoor businesses, including restaurants, bars, fitness centers and gyms, officials announced Wednesday.
The San Francisco Department of Public Health said that as of Friday it will be up to businesses to require proof of vaccination or a negative test from their staff and customers.
Proof of vaccination will still be required to enter indoor “mega” events, defined as gatherings of 1,000 people or more, in accordance with state guidelines, the department said in a statement.
San Francisco was one of the first cities in the country to require proof of vaccination before entering certain indoor businesses. City officials issued the mandate in August as the delta variant spread.
“With cases and hospitalizations continuing to fall and our high vaccination rate providing a strong defense against the virus, San Francisco is ready to further reduce COVID-19 restrictions and allow individuals to make their own decisions to protect themselves and their loved ones,” said Health Officer, Dr. Susan Philip.
The vast majority of city residents, or 83%, are fully vaccinated.