February 14, 2022: The City's proof of COVID-19 vaccination requirement for patrons of on-site dining establishments expired at the adjournment of the February 14, 2022 City Council meeting. Learn more.
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The below Q&A is for informational purposes only.
Why is the City requiring proof of vaccination for customers at certain businesses?
This measure has been implemented in response to a sharp increase in cases in our community and throughout our region. In Lake County, the CDC Data Tracker reports a positivity rate of 9.31% over the past seven days as of December 28, 2021, with a 14% increase in cases as compared to the prior period. In addition to data available from the CDC, COVID-19 data for Lake County is also available from the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Lake County Health Department.
COVID-19 vaccination is safe and effective and is the best way to prevent against severe illness that may require hospitalization. Preventing hospitalization reduces strain on our healthcare system. In addition, vaccination helps protect vulnerable community members who are not able to be vaccinated, such as children under the age of 5, and those who are immunocompromised.
Are face masks still required for fully vaccinated customers?
Yes, the State of Illinois requires that all individuals over the age of two wear a face mask in public indoor spaces.
Where can I get a COVID-19 vaccine?
COVID-19 vaccination is free and widely available at local pharmacies, including CVS; Jewel-Osco; Mariano’s; Meijer; Walgreens; Walmart Pharmacy. Learn more about the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines at vaccines.gov.
I have received a medical exemption from my doctor and cannot be vaccinated. What do I do?
You'll need to show proof of your medical exemption from your medical provider and proof of a negative COVID-19 test administered by a medical professional within the prior 24 hours.
Do I need to show proof of vaccination to pick up a carryout order or use the washroom?
No, individuals visiting an establishment for less than ten minutes for ordering or picking up food, making a delivery, or using the washroom do not need to show proof of vaccination.
What establishments where food and drink may be served are exempt?
The vaccination requirement does not apply to houses of worship, K-12 schools, preschools, and child care centers, indoor locations within a residential or office building, where the use of dining facilities is limited to residents, owners, or tenants of the building, and charitable food service establishments such as soup kitchens.
Are there any other exemptions?
Yes, limited exemptions apply. Click here to learn more.
How will the new vaccination requirement be enforced?
The City will work collaboratively with business owners to ensure that the vaccine requirement is appropriately applied. City staff will follow up on any reported concerns with individual business owners. Repeated violations may result in a citation.
How is the City supporting businesses in implementing this policy?
The Office of Business Development is happy to respond to questions and provide support to business owners. Please email cityhp@cityhpil.com or call 847.926.1027. Business owners should note the following requirements:
- Businesses covered by this policy will be required to confirm that all customers comply with this requirement before entry.
- Employees of on-premises food and drink establishments must either provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination to their employer or provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test at least once every seven calendar days.
- Businesses should ensure that signage is posted to advise patrons of the COVID-19 vaccination requirement.
Download a flyer to print and post at the entrance of your business here.
Download a flyer to print and post for your employees' information here.
The City of Highland Park is hosting two virtual meetings for those businesses for which the mandate may apply. You are receiving this invitation as the mandate may apply to your business. The first meeting on Thursday, January 6 (3:00 PM) is to answer additional questions of business owners and managers. The purpose of the second meeting on Thursday, January 13 is to debrief with businesses following the first week of the mandate. Please plan to attend both of these meetings, if possible. Business owners should contact cityhp@cityhpil.com for the Zoom links.
Questions regarding this emergency order should be directed to the Office of Business Development, at cityhp@cityhpil.com or 847.926.1027.
How can I provide proof of vaccination if I lost my CDC record card?
If you've lost your CDC vaccination card, but were vaccinated in the State of Illinois, you may access your COVID-19 vaccination record at VaxVerify, the IDPH online portal.
If you were vaccinated elsewhere, you should be able to obtain a record of your vaccination by contacting the pharmacy or clinic where you were vaccinated. Once you've received this documentation, share it with your medical provider so that they have a record as well.
Are booster doses required to be fully vaccinated?
Not at this time. The City's emergency order aligns with the CDC's current definition of "full vaccination." Individuals ages 5 and older are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after the second dose in an approved two-dose vaccine series (Pfizer/Moderna), or two weeks after receiving the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Approved vaccines include those authorized or approved by either the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the World Health Organization (WHO).
I was vaccinated abroad, and my vaccine is not currently authorized in the US. Am I still considered fully vaccinated?
Provided that you received the full course (i.e., both doses) of a COVID-19 vaccine authorized or approved by either the FDA or the WHO, you are considered fully vaccinated, in line with CDC guidance. To comply with this order, show the proof of vaccination you received (printout or digital) from the country where you were vaccinated.
Am I required to confirm the vaccination status of guests at a party at my home?
No, this measure only applies to establishments in Highland Park offering on-premises dining.
How long will the vaccine requirement be in effect?
This measure will remain in effect until the City's Emergency Declaration expires or the order is rescinded. The City Council will consider an extension of the Emergency Declaration at the January 24, 2022 meeting.