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:

• Indoor dining capacity is limited to 50% if a facility has done its online self-certification and, if not, capacity is limited to 25%;
• Outdoor seating must have two open side;
• Require employees to wear masks at all times and customers to wear them when not at their table;
• Practice social distancing guidelines in seating arrangements;
• Prohibit bar service;
• Require food sales alongside alcohol sales;
• and end alcohol sales at 11 p.m. and prohibit alcohol consumption 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.