New day, new rules: Capacity limit changes for gatherings like sporting events now in effect

PITTSBURGH — Changes for capacity limits on gatherings, including sporting events, concerts and festivals, go into effect Friday.

The new orders take venue occupancy limits into consideration, allowing them to play a bigger role in determining the number of people permitted both inside and outside.

It’s great news for Steelers fans, 5,500 of whom will be allowed into Heinz Field for Sunday’s game between the Steelers and Philadelphia Eagles. Tailgating will not be permitted.

>>RELATED STORY: Lucky enough to score tickets to the Steelers game? Here’s what you need to know

High school football games also fall under the adjusted guidelines. Schools such as Pine Richland and North Allegheny will be able to have about 2,000 fans. Gateway can have a little over 1,000 fans.

“We are just happy to have means. I mean we only have one more home game, but we are happy to have fans,” said Mars Athletic Director Scott Heinauer.

Volleyball and ice hockey matches will be able to have fans as well.

“When that was announced, the parents were really excited,” said Baierl Ice Complex general manager Jim Black. “We encourage family members to sit together.”

However, the order does not include expanding indoor dining capacity at restaurants. That remains at 50%.

>>CLICK HERE to learn more about the new capacity limits and what gatherings they apply to.

COVID-19 mitigation efforts such as mask wearing and social distancing remain in place in all circumstances.

Friday’s capacity changes come a day after Pennsylvania saw the highest single-day increase of COVID-19 cases since April.

You can customize your WPXI News App to receive news alerts. CLICK HERE to find out how.

Here's what you need to know if you're heading to Heinz Field this Sunday

Cox Media Group