California theme parks, stadiums may reopen as early as April 1

California theme parks and sports stadiums will be allowed to welcome back visitors far sooner than expected under new guidance the state unveiled Friday.

While the changes don’t mean it’ll be business as usual at large-capacity facilities, they do reflect the state’s growing sentiment that, with case rates on the decline and the COVID-19 vaccine rollout continuing to ramp up, it is now possible to resume some activities — particularly those that can be held outdoors with additional safety modifications.

“Throughout the pandemic, California’s business community has been committed to protecting the health and safety of workers and customers — and that won’t change now,” Dee Dee Myers, senior advisor to Gov. Gavin Newsom and director of the governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development, said in a statement Friday. “We will continue to work together with our partners across all sectors of the economy as we reopen safely, sustainably and equitably.”

Starting April 1, amusement parks will be eligible to reopen with limited capacity in counties that are in the red tier — the second-strictest of California’s four-category reopening roadmap.

Capacity will be limited to 15% for parks in the red tier; the cap rises to 25% once a county progresses to the orange tier and 35% upon reaching the most lenient tier, yellow.

Officials said attendance will be limited to in-state visitors. Other restrictions will include no indoor dining and limits on indoor rides, though details were not immediately available.

Outdoor sports — with fans — and live performances also will be allowed to resume April 1.