Each convention center, each city, and each state has different restrictions on mass gatherings and building capacities during COVID-19. As vaccines are being distributed, many marketers are beginning to plan for the return of events, but every convention center has different regulations. These rules are continuously evolving in each location as COVID-19 numbers fluctuate.
Keeping up with these restrictions can be time consuming and laborious, but we're here to help. Many event marketers are struggling to identify which states and venues can accommodate them during COVID-19. As vaccines are being distributed, there are industries that are eager to return to in-person events and it is critical to understand which venues will allow their audiences. As of February 26th, 2021, we've compiled a list of every GBAC Star certified convention center and their current capacity/gathering restrictions.
The Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC) issues the GBAC Star accreditation for facilities meeting the highest levels of cleaning standards. Facilities of any size can apply for a GBAC Star and convention centers across the country have implemented comprehensive cleaning protocols in preparation for opening and maintaining a safe environment for large gatherings.
"If someone has requested a permit with an attendance over 10, the Convention and Event Services – Office of Special Events is currently working with the requestors to modify their permit application to reschedule to a later date or to elect to cancel their event."
"Any event with anticipated attendance above 250 people, such as fairs/festivals, conventions, and sporting events, must submit an event plan for MCPHD approval."
Events that "intend to have more than 10 persons at an event must submit a waiver to the Kansas City Health Department. If that waiver is granted, that event may operate at up to 50 percent capacity, unless otherwise directed by the Health Department."
"Venues hosting events or gatherings must determine their established occupancy limit as defined by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Life Safety Code and then apply the attendee calculator to determine how many attendees are permitted to attend the event or gathering."
"Public gatherings and venues that host events such as live entertainment or group meetings are limited to 50 people or to 25 percent of capacity, whichever number is lower."
"Business meetings are now limited to training and testing that cannot be done virtually and is limited to 100 guests or 25% occupancy, whichever is less."
"Meeting spaces, including hotels, can host gatherings of up to 100 people per room or 30 percent of the room capacity, whichever is fewer. Small- and medium-sized venues must limit occupancy to 25 people indoors, and 100 people or 30 percent of seated capacity outdoors."
"Occupancy by room is revised to accommodate distancing, and it shall be required to comply with a maximum of 10 people per 300 square feet of meeting room space per state mandates."
As you navigate your safe return to trade shows and events, it's important to stay up-to-date on a variety of information including cleaning protocols, venue restrictions, distancing guidelines and more.
We are constantly monitoring industry regulations and changes, and we're ready to help your team when the time is right.