Current COVID-19 Guidelines
As we move toward summer, both states plan to gradually relax their restrictions with COVID-19 numbers falling and vaccination rates rising. Here’s what you need to know:
NOTE: This information is fluid and will be updated as needed.
Rhode Island COVID-19 Guidelines
Masks: Face coverings are required at indoor public places and large events, but are no longer required when outdoors and socially distanced.
Business Restrictions: The capacity limit for restaurants, stores and other services increases to 80% on May 7, before it will be lifted completely on May 28.
Social Gatherings: Currently capped at 25 people for indoor social gatherings and 75 people outdoors. There will be no limit on May 28 and beyond.
Travel: Anyone coming into Rhode Island from a state with a positivity rate of 5% of higher must quarantine for 10 days unless they’re fully vaccinated or produce a negative test. See a full list of states currently on Rhode Island’s travel advisory list here.
Massachusetts COVID-19 Guidelines
Masks: Gov. Charlie Baker announced the outdoor mask mandate will be lifted on Friday, April 30. Anyone who’s outside and socially distanced doesn’t have to wear a face covering, but masks will still be required at indoor public places, at events where social distancing isn’t possible, and when sector-specific guidance calls for them.
Business Restrictions: While the capacity limit has been lifted for restaurants, it remains at 50% for most other sectors. The capacity limit will increase to 100% on Aug. 1.
Stadiums, arenas and ballparks can increase their capacity to 25% on May 10, while amusement parks, theme parks and outdoor water parks can reopen at 50% capacity. Indoor water parks, dance clubs, saunas and other services that remain closed will be able to open on Aug. 1.
Social Gatherings: Events at private residences are capped at 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors, while public events can have up to 100 attendees indoors and 150 attendees outdoors. On May 29, the gathering limit will increase to 200 people inside and 250 outside for public and private settings.
Travel: All visitors and returning residents are required to quarantine for 10 days upon arrival, unless they fall into one of the following categories:
- Anyone visiting Massachusetts for less than 24 hours, or returning after being out of state for less than 24 hours
- Critical infrastructure workers
- Travelers who have tested negative for the coronavirus within 72 hours
- Travelers who are fully vaccinated and not displaying any COVID-19 symptoms