On December 15, 2020, local authorities lifted certain restrictions on businesses and activities that had remained in place following the state’s return to the “orange” alert level of Mexico’s stoplight system on December 1. Restaurants are permitted to remain open until 9pm Monday through Thursday and until 10pm Friday through Sunday. Parks and outdoor recreation centers may be used for individual exercise as long as users comply with social distancing guidelines. Additionally, alcohol may now be sold until 8pm each day of the week.
State and municipal authorities continue to recommend that individuals remain at home and limit travel to essential activities. When in public spaces, individuals are requested to practice social distancing and wear face coverings. Industrial operations deemed essential are allowed to operate at full capacity, while operations deemed non-essential are permitted to operate at 30% capacity, with the possibility of being certified by authorities to expand to up to 80% capacity. Government offices deemed essential may operate at full capacity while non-essential offices may operate at 30% capacity. Hotels are allowed to operate at 30% capacity, with common areas closed. Restaurants may allow dining up to 30% capacity indoors and 50% capacity outdoors. Businesses inside commercial centers are allowed to operate at 25% capacity. Establishments directed to remain closed at this time include bars, nightclubs, gyms, museums, theaters, places of worship, cinemas, and all large event venues. No team or contact sports are permitted. In-person classes at schools and visits to prisons and nursing homes remain suspended.
Note that CBP has closed lanes or reduced hours at some border crossings due to a significant reduction in traffic. CBP may also question travelers returning to the United States on their purpose of travel in Mexico. See CBP official websites and monitor the CBP border wait times site for current information.