Fish fry sponsors reminded of covid guidelines, need for health permit

Health officials in Allegheny County reminded Lenten fish fry sponsors they must have a health permit and follow the state’s covid-19 mitigation guidelines.

Health permits are required for all facilities serving food, including temporary fish fries.

Allegheny County Health Department spokesman Aaron Aupperlee said sponsors should submit their temporary permit application by Feb. 12 to be prepared for the start of the season.

Fish fries associated with the Diocese of Pittsburgh will be takeout only, according to spokeswoman Jennifer Antkowiak. Pittsburgh Catholic’s yearly fish fry guide will be available online beginning Feb. 12.

Fish fries allowing in-person dining must follow the state’s covid-19 guidelines:

• Limit indoor dining to 50% of capacity if a facility has done its online self-certification and, if not, capacity is limited to 25%.
• Outdoor seating areas must have two open sides.
• Employees are required to wear masks at all times and customers are required to wear them when not at their table.
• Social distancing guidelines should be followed in seating arrangements.
• Bar service is prohibited.
• Require food sales alongside alcohol sales.
• Alcohol sales must end by 11 p.m. and alcohol consumption is prohibited after midnight.

Aupperlee said fish fry sponsors are encouraged to offer take-out service as well as online and phone orders in an effort to limit crowds.

The temporary permit application is available on the county health department’s website, and it includes a covid-19 prevention checklist. Temporary permits cost $47.

Lent begins on Feb. 17.