Overview
The guidelines below apply to non-essential businesses in regions that are permitted to reopen, essential businesses throughout the state that were previously permitted to remain open, and commercial and recreational activities that have been permitted to operate statewide with restrictions. If guidance has not yet been published for your specific industry, but you are permitted to reopen, please refer to the NY Forward Safety Plan template.
Phase Four: Capital Region, Central New York, Finger Lakes, Long Island, Mid-Hudson, Mohawk Valley, North Country, Southern Tier and Western NY can enter Phase Four of reopening.
- Higher Education
- Pre-K to Grade 12 Schools
- Low-Risk Outdoor Arts & Entertainment
- Low-Risk Indoor Arts & Entertainment
- Media Production
- Professional Sports Competitions With No Fans
- Malls
For help determining whether or not your business is eligible to reopen, use the reopen lookup tool. You can also scroll down to find the guidance for each phase.
Higher Education
Pre-K to Grade 12 Schools
Low-Risk Outdoor Arts & Entertainment
Low-Risk Indoor Arts & Entertainment
Media Production
Professional Sports Competitions With No Fans
Malls
Frequently Asked Questions
Visit Empire State Development's website for frequently asked questions on how the New York Forward re-opening plan impacts your business.