The State of California has authorized the County of Orange to advance to an immediate Stage 2 reopening.  This will allow several business sectors to move to the next step in reopening with proper safety protocols in place.  For more information and specific business reopening guidance, please visit the County’s website at: https://occovid19.ochealthinfo.com/.

As a follow-up to the State’s approval of an immediate Stage 2 reopening, the County’s Health Officer issued a new order with recommendations to help slow the spread of COVID-19 now that we’re accelerating into the later phase of Stage 2. The new order includes necessary preventative measures regarding the wearing of face coverings in public spaces, business re-opening guidelines, and instructions for persons exposed to COVID-19. Implementation of these guidelines was one of the criteria the California Department of Public Health considered before approving the plan to move further into Stage 2. Residents are encouraged to read the Health Officer’s Order in its entirety by clicking here.

We are pleased to announce that beginning June 2, the City Council Chamber will re-open to the public for City Council meetings. To protect the health and safety of the public, Councilmembers and City staff, plexiglass barriers have been installed at the dais, staff tables and at the podium. Within the audience certain seating areas will not be accessible in order to maintain social distancing. All City employees that attend public meetings will wear masks or face coverings, and members of the public must also wear a mask or face covering in the Council Chamber. Masks will be provided if needed. A hand washing station and hand sanitizer will also be available. To limit the number of individuals in the Council Chamber, the public is still encouraged to watch the meeting from home through the City’s website. Importantly, members of the public with COVID-19 symptoms or those at a higher risk if exposed should not attend City Council meetings in-person. If you’re not sure if this applies to you, check your symptoms on the Centers for Disease Control website. Instructions for remote participation will continue to be included on public meeting agendas when published. Again, thank you for your patience and flexibility as we continue to balance safety and public participation. Please continue to visit the City’s dedicated COVID-19 webpage for updated information including instructions to access all available resources and programs for residents and businesses. 

Local business employees and business owners are encouraged to visit the county’s COVID-19 Resource Directory. Employees will find information regarding unemployment benefits if their employer has reduced their hours or temporarily ceased operations due to COVID-19. And employers will find information on protecting their workers from COVID-19 if they are continuing to operate an essential business. If able, residents are asked to continue supporting our local businesses during this time. Please continue to purchase your groceries and supplies in San Juan Capistrano. You’ll also find a list of restaurants open for pick-up and delivery on the City’s website.

On April 9, County of Orange Health Officer Dr. Nichole Quick issued a recommendation strongly encouraging all residents engaged in essential activities outside the home to wear a face covering. The recommendation is in accordance with guidance issued by the California Department of Public Health and is intended to help slow the spread of COVID-19 by those who are asymptomatic. A face covering is material that covers the nose and mouth. It can be secured to the head with ties or straps, or simply wrapped around the lower face. Face coverings may be purchased, sewn or improvised using household items like scarfs, t-shirts, or towels. Please remember not to purchase N95 masks or surgical masks. These items should be reserved only for first responders or health care providers.

The grab-n-go meal program available for seniors 60 and over at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center (25925 Camino Del Avion) has expanded its operation to provide meals Monday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. One frozen meal with milk or juice will be provided to each person (one meal per day). Participants must call two days in advance to reserve their meal. 

To reserve a meal call Agewell Senior Services at (949) 493-5921 or e-mail. 

Please share this information with seniors who may not have regular access to the internet.

Please visit the City's Building Department webpage to access instructions for electronic permitting and project submittal. Please e-mail b2@sanjuancapistrano.org or call (949) 443-6347 with questions. 

Residents are encouraged to visit ReadyOC for information on starting an emergency preparedness kit, making a plan for their family and pets, and staying connected to receive the most up-to-date information from your public safety providers. To stay informed, residents can also register for AlertOC, the mass notification system utilized by the City to notify residents and businesses of emergencies that may require immediate lifesaving actions. To register, visit the AlertOC website or text ALERTOC to 888777.