Connecticut lifts capacity limits on many businesses but keeps mask mandate

Starting on March 19, restaurants, retail stores, libraries, personal care services, gyms, offices and houses of worship will no longer have their capacity restricted.

But businesses will be required to enforce rules on face coverings and to ensure six feet of space or plexiglass barriers between those inside — customers and employees — which will effectively limit capacity at several businesses.

Several other limits will remain in place, including safety and cleaning protocols at gyms and personal care services like salons and spas. Bars that do not serve food will remain closed. Unlike neighboring Massachusetts, Connecticut will not lift a curfew that requires restaurants and entertainment venues to close by 11 p.m.

“Your mother used to tell you nothing good happens after 11 o’clock at night,” Mr. Lamont said. “You know, it gets more fun sometimes, but we’re going to push that off a little bit longer.”