Repeated or egregious violations by retailers who fail to enforce COVID-19 safety steps face potential penalties of up to 364 days in jail, loss of a business license and a $5,000 fine, Mayor Jenny Durkan has announced.
Her announcement identifies the Department of Finance and Administrative Services as being responsible for enforcement of protocols such as wearing facial covering, social distancing and occupancy limits.
“…the City’s focus is primarily to conduct outreach and education to help businesses comply with the new rule,” the announcement reads. However, repeat or egregious offenses are subject to potential jail time and fines, she said.
Washington Retail is monitoring the situation to gauge its impact on businesses operating within Seattle.
Seattle offers the Find It, Fix It app or a hotline, 206-684-2489 to report concerns regarding enforcement of COVID safety protocols.
