Old Orchard Beach limits beach to pedestrian use only

OLD ORCHARD BEACH — The town is limiting beach access to walking only from May 11 to June 1.

This restriction is part of a civil state of emergency order the town issued on April 30 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under the order, the beach will be “a walking only beach,” from May 11 to June 1, during which time “sitting or similar type of activity” on the beach will be prohibited.

Beginning May 1, take-out food window service will be allowed at restaurants with take-out windows or counters that have an approved plan by the town that addresses worker safety, social distancing and public health. Other take-out restaurants must serve food by curbside pickup or delivery.

Those who violate these terms can face a fine ranging from $100 to $500, and businesses could be ordered closed.

The order also recommends “on the strongest terms possible” that those who have second homes in Old Orchard Beach stay at their primary residences until June 1 or when the governor terminates the current state of emergency.

Governor Janet Mills issued a “stay safer at home” order earlier this week along with a staged plan to lift restrictions.

Stage 1, which begins May 1 and runs through the end of the month, continues prohibitions of gatherings of more than 10 people, and requires people traveling to Maine from out-of-state to quarantine for 14 days.