(ALBION) – New health restrictions have been put in place in Noble County.

County Health Officer Dr. Terry Gaff says these restrictions were put in place to help slow down the spread of COVID-19, much like other Northeast Indiana counties have done.

Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb issued a new executive order which limits gathering sizes to 50 people for counties rated orange and 25 for counties rated red, without submission of a safety plan to the local health department.

The order issued by Gaff sets maximums at 250 people for orange level and 100 people at red level. Any gatherings or events larger that 250 will not even be considered for approval.

The local order also impacts restaurant and bar service. Those measures include capacity being limited to 50 percent of indoor capacity and 100 percent of outdoor capacity. Outdoor tent seating is permitted only if the tent has at least two open air sides for maximum ventilation. Establishments must also be closed and cleared of customers between the hours of 12 and 5 AM.

Bar seating shall be closed, there will be table seating only. Table seating will be limited to 10 people per table, and the tables must be spaced so that individuals will be at least 6 feet away from individuals seated at other tables.

Self-service style food stations, such as buffets and salad bars, are not permitted unless a staff member serves patrons.