On October 19, the County of San Mateo launched its new COVID-19 compliance team, an eight-person unit tasked with responding to reports of businesses not following local or state health orders related to the pandemic and coordinating with cities on outreach.

The enforcement team is one prong of the County’s Business Engagement and Compliance Program. The other half is aimed at first educating business owners about complying with requirements for all businesses including, but not limited to:

• Making sure customers and employees wear face coverings at all times unless seated at a dining establishment
• Preparing, posting and following a Social Distancing Protocol
• Ensuring that employees who are sick do not come to work
• Confirming that customers are able to remain 6 feet or more apart

“We want to work with businesses and make sure they are maintaining a safe environment for their employees and their customers,” said County Manager Mike Callagy. “We’d love to never have to issue any citations but there is too much at stake for the community’s safety and economic health.”

Starting Monday, Oct. 19, 2020, all county residents will be able to report an alleged business violation for investigation via an online portal accessible from the County’s website. The submission form asks for the resident’s name and contact information, information about the business and the nature of the complaint and if he or she has previously contacted authorities about these concerns. 

While the online portal is the preferred and primary way to submit a report regarding businesses, those needing language assistance or someone to enter their complaint into the portal for them can call 2-1-1.

Residents wishing to report violations of individuals, such as large social gatherings, should still contact their local law enforcement agency’s non-emergency line. Do not call 9-1-1.

For more information, please visit the County press release.