Updated December 28th: Executive Order NW-19
Latest local News
NEW: Executive Order NW-19 issued by Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff
On Monday, December 28, Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff issued Executive Order NW-19, effective as of Monday, December 28, 2020 and continuing until fourteen (14) days following the termination of the state-wide public health emergency as declared by Texas Governor Greg Abbott, unless extended, modified or terminated early by Bexar County Judge Nelson W. Wolff.
Click here to view the NW-19 executive order, issued Dec. 28, 2020
View Impact If Bexar County Falls Within “Areas with High Hospitalization” Under Governor’s Order GA-32
Orders and Declarations
- NW-18 executive order, issued Dec. 8, 2020
- NW-17 executive order, issued Nov. 25, 2020
- NW-16 executive order, issued Oct. 15, 2020
- Amended NW-15 executive order, issued Sept. 21, 2020
- NW-15 executive order, issued Sept. 16, 2020
- Amended NW-14 executive order, issued Sept. 4, 2020
- NW-14 executive order, issued Aug. 12, 2020
- Supplemental Order NW-13, issued Aug. 3, 2020
- NW-13 executive order, issued July 15, 2020
- Supplemental Order to NW-13, issued on July 17, 2020
- Supplemental Order to NW-12, issued on July 6, 2020
- NW-12 executive order, issued July 1, 2020
- NW-11 executive order, issued June 25, 2020
- NW-10 executive order, issued June 17, 2020
- Second Order Continuing Declaration of State of Local Disaster for Bexar County, Texas
- NW-09 executive order, issued June 4, 2020.
- NW-08 executive order, issued May 19, 2020
- NW-07 executive order, issued April 29, 2020
- NW-06 executive order, issued April 17, 2020
- NW-05 executive order, issued April 5, 2020
- Supplemental Executive Order, issued April 3, 2020
- Executive Order "Stay Home, Work Safe", issued March 23,2020
- Declaration of Public Health Emergency, issued March 19, 2020
- Declaration of Continuation of Public Health Emergency, issued March 18,2020
- Declaration of Public Health Emergency, issued March 13, 2020
Resources
- Downloadable Template for Businesses
- Downloadable Template for Businesses (Spanish)
- COVID-19 Symptoms Flyer for Businesses
- COVID-19 Symptoms Flyer for Businesses (Spansh)
- COVID-19 Symptoms Poster 11 x 17 (English)
- COVID-19 Symptoms Poster 11 x 17 (Spanish)
Frequently Asked Questions Relating to Executive Order NW-10
What does Executive Order NW-10 require?
This order requires that all commercial entities in Bexar County providing goods or services directly to the public develop and implement a health and safety policy (“Health and Safety Policy”). The Health and Safety Policy developed by commercial entities in Bexar County must require, at a minimum, that all employees or visitors wear face coverings when in an area or performing an activity which will necessarily involve close contact or proximity to co-workers or the public where six feet of separation is not feasible. NW-10 also requires that the Health and Safety Policy developed by a particular commercial entity be posted in a conspicuous location readily visible to the public.
Does the Health and Safety Policy have to be in a specific form?
No. There is no required format so long as the policy is clear and it meets the minimum requirements contained in NW-10. The County recognizes that not all commercial entities are alike and so the posting of this policy attempts to remain flexible. The Health and Safety Policy required to be developed by NW-10 may be customized in consideration of each commercial entity’s particular business practices and customers so long as it meets the minimum requirements. Some commercial entities may decide to require additional mitigating measures which exceed the requirements of NW-10 such as temperature checks or health screenings.
Why was this order issued?
NW-10 was issued because the transmission of COVID-19 remains a significant threat to the health and safety of the Bexar County Community and rates of infection are increasing at an alarming exponential rate. Health experts agree that implementing protective health measures such as social distancing and face coverings help in reducing the rate of transmission of the virus.
FOR BUSINESS OWNERS
Which order should I follow? Governor Abbott’s or the County Judge’s order?
The answer is both. Judge Wolff’s order supplements Governor Abbott’s current executive orders. The Bexar County order does not replace any order, direction or guideline put in place by Governor Abbott and the State of Texas.
I do not know how to write a policy. Do you have a template I could use?
Bexar County has prepared a downloadable template which you may use. Posting the template in a conspicuous location and implementing the facial covering requirement for your business is sufficient to meet the requirements of NW-10. Please keep in mind that you may still need to customize your Health and Safety Policy to include additional measures specific to your business. Please remember to post your Health and Safety Policy in as prominent a location as possible, such as the front door or window.
What if I am a small business owner and cannot find any masks?
First, do not worry. The goal of NW-10 is education, cooperation and compliance, with enforcement by issuing citations or assessing fines as a last resort. To ensure compliance and avoid putting any additional stress on business owners, Bexar County offers assistance with obtaining masks. Please visit www.bexar.org to sign up to receive a small supply of safety masks to issue to employees or customers should they not have a face covering readily available. If you would like to purchase more, we have included a link to a list of vendors you can use.
If I own a restaurant, do my employees have to wear a mask?
The short answer is yes. At a minimum, the Health and Safety Policy developed as a result of NW-10 should require your employees to wear masks when working alongside other employees or providing services to the general public or if they are not able to maintain social distancing of 6 feet or more.
I am a dentist. Do I need to require patients to wear a mask?
Yes. All employees and visitors should wear a mask when entering the office. However, patients receiving medical services may remove their mask when necessary during procedures so long as the health care provider takes appropriate safety precautions. Please ensure that all employees and medical staff are wearing a mask and appropriate protective equipment when administering medical services.
FOR INDIVIDUALS
Are individuals still required to wear masks, and practice social distancing?
Individuals are required to wear masks and practice social distancing when they are in public. Starting Monday, June 22, 2020, all commercial entities in Bexar County will require visitors to wear a mask in order to enter their business premises and receive services.
Should I still practice social distancing while exercising outdoors?
Yes, keeping a distance of at least 6 feet from others while engaging in physical activities, even when outdoors, reduces the risk of transmission of COVID-19.
Do I need to wear a mask when I go to a restaurant?
Yes, a mask is required when entering a restaurant. When you are sitting at the table and/or eating or drinking, you may remove your mask. However, when getting up to visit the restroom or leaving the restaurant, you will be required to put your mask back on.
When will Executive Order NW-10 take effect?
NW-10 took effect as of 12:01 p.m. on Wednesday, June 17, 2020 and will remain in effect until 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, June 30, 2020. Commercial entities in Bexar County are required to develop and implement their Health and Safety Policy as soon as possible, but will not be issued a fine for non-compliance before Monday, June 22, 2020.
Additional News
COVID-19 Voting By Mail Update
On May 27, 2020, the Texas Supreme Court determined that the lack of immunity alone is not a “disability” for purposes of voting by mail. However, the court also stated that a voter can take into consideration aspects of their own health and health history when determining whether in-person voting will cause a likelihood of injury due to a physical condition.
To request a ballot by mail based on a disability, an eligible voter can check the box for disability on the request form and submit to the Bexar County Elections Department which will then provide a ballot by mail. If you would like an application to request a ballot by mail please visit, the Early Voting & Absentee Ballots page on the Elections website.
COVID-19 Information
A new Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) was recently identified in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China and is causing an outbreak of respiratory illness. The 2019-nCoV outbreak began in December 2019, and Chinese health officials have reported thousands of 2019‑nCoV infections in China, including several that resulted in death. Several additional countries have identified cases of 2019-nCoV infection including the United States.
How is Bexar County Responding
Bexar County, together with the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) and the Facilities Maintenance Department, is working closely with the San Antonio Metropolitan Health Department and to coordinate precautionary measures within all County facilities.
Specific areas that experience high traffic will be aggressively sanitized and disinfected with higher frequency, including the following areas: criminal and civil presiding courts, BCSO substations, Tax Accessor-Collector’s offices, and the Central Jury Room.
The Facilities Department has placed large hand sanitizer dispensers at every entrance and exit in the County complex and freestanding (touchless) dispensers have been ordered for every County building.
Informational posters on handwashing and COVID-19 prevention information have been posted in every County facility and high traffic areas.
Updates on County offices, services, and facilities will be posted here and on the County’s social media platforms:
COVID-19 Hotline Now Open
The San Antonio Metropolitan Health District has opened a COVID-19 hotline for residents to ask questions about the virus. The hotline is available in English and Spanish. Residents can call 210-207-5779. (Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM) Information for the public is also available at: www.sanantonio.gov/health/2019ncoronavirus.
How do people become infected with Coronavirus?
Human coronaviruses most commonly spread from an infected person to others through:
- Respiratory droplets released into the air by coughing and sneezing;
- Close personal contact, such as caring for an infected person;
- Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands; and
- Rarely, fecal contamination.
How can I avoid infection with COVID-19? 
There is currently no vaccine and no specific antiviral treatment for COVID-19. The best way to prevent infection is to take precautions to avoid exposure to this virus, which are similar to the precautions you take to avoid the flu. CDC always recommends these everyday actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer (60% alcohol).
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
What are the symptoms? 
Patients with confirmed 2019-nCoV infection have reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Muscle aches or fatigue
- Symptoms may appear 2 - 14 days after exposure
At this time, CDC believes that symptoms of 2019-nCoV may appear in as few as two (2) days or as long as 14 days after exposure.
What should I do if I do not feel well?
If you are experiencing symptoms including fever, cough, and shortness of breath, please contact your health care provider. Your doctor will evaluate your condition and can help make the decision whether you should get tested for coronavirus. Please visit the San Antonio Metro Health Department webpage here for information on testing guidelines and criteria.
What is the Stay Home/Work Safe Order?
Beginning at midnight - Tuesday March 24, 2020 - Mayor Nirenberg and Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff issued separate but joint Stay Home, Work Safe Orders to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Individuals living within the City of San Antonio and the suburban cities within Bexar County to stay home and only leave their homes to perform allowed activities.
When does the Order start and when does it end?
The order is effective beginning at 11:59 pm on March 24, 2020 and with City Council approval, will be effective until 11:59 pm on April 9th, or until it is either rescinded, superseded or amended.
Affected Bexar County Offices and Operations
NEW: COVID-19 Operating Plan for the Bexar County Judiciary
Recognizing the need to ensure the health and safety of litigants, attorneys, and visitors, court staff, judges, and other individuals entering the buildings housing the courts, the courts of Bexar County will implement the COVID-19 Operating Plan for the Bexar County Judiciary, effective June 15, 2020.
View the COVID-19 Operating Plan for the Bexar County Judiciary.
NEW: County Courts’ Vulnerable Population Notice
A notice from the County Courts regarding accommodations for members of a vulnerable population.
View the County Courts’ Vulnerable Population Notice.
Suspension of Jury Duty
On Wednesday, April 29, 2020, jury trial suspensions and Jury Duty suspensions were extended until May 29, 2020. Any juror summons received by Bexar County residents before then should be disregarded. Summoned individuals will not be penalized for not appearing to Jury Duty during these dates. Jury Duty is scheduled to resume on Monday, June 1, 2020.
- Supplemental Order Regarding Jury Service Through May 29, 2020 (April 29,2020)
- Supplemental Order Regarding Jury Service (April 13, 2020)
- View Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the Suspension of Jury Duty
Bexar County Civil District Courts
The Bexar County Civil District Courts will operate pursuant to this plan effective April 6, 2020. NOTHING IN THIS PLAN SUPERCEDES EMERGENCY ORDERS ISSUED BY ANY NATIONAL, STATE OR LOCAL GOVERNMENT. Effective April 6, 2020, all cases will be heard remotely by the Civil District Courts. Essential matters will be given priority.
Click here to view the complete Civil District Courts plan.
Bexar County Justices of the Peace
The Bexar County Justices of the Peace have issued an order regarding their court proceedings. Effective March 16, 2020, all civil and criminal bench and jury trials, and court dockets, scheduled to begin through April 16, 2020 will be reset by a later date, scheduled by the Court – with court dockets limited to essential court proceedings. The Courts will remain open during regular business hours to accept filings, service constituents, and review all matters filed by submission.
- View the Third Order Regarding Court Proceedings Pending COVID-19 State of Emergency
- View the Second Order Regarding Court Proceedings Pending COVID-19 State of Emergency
- View the Justices of the Peace Court First Court Order.
Bexar County District Attorney’s Office
Offices will remain open with reduced staff. Prosecutors are reviewing cases filed by law enforcement and reaching out to victims and witnesses. Grant juries continue to operate. To apply for a protective order, please call 210-631-0100 or fill out an intake form online at www.bexarcountyprotectiveorders.org/apply-online.
The Bexar County Family Justice Center continues to provide services to domestic violence survivors. Call 210-631-0100 for assistance.
Click here to view the media release from the DA’s Office.
Bexar County Sheriff’s Office
Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar has instituted the following changes to the Adult Detention Center: UHS personnel will medically pre-screen all inmates in the sally port before entering the Joint Intake and Assessment Annex (JIAA). Inmates with fever or flu-like symptoms will be booked and housed separately. Bexar County Adult Detention Center bond processing and fine collection has been moved to the JIAA front desk. Deputies are being asked to limit their contact with the public to that which is necessary. The BCSO is also working to minimize custodial arrests by filing non-violent offenses at large.
Bexar County Tax Assessor-Collector’s Office
Tax Assessor-Collector lobbies are now open. All persons wishing to conduct business in the Tax Assessor-Collector’s Office must have their temperature taken and cannot exceed 100 degrees, must answer COVID-19 related questions, and must wear a facial covering. Due to limited seating, only two persons per transaction will be allowed in the building.
In an effort to reduce the need for in-person transactions, the state has temporarily waived deadlines for registration renewals, placard renewals, and title transfers. Please click here for private Vehicle Full-Service Title Company locations.
Our phone center, commercial offices, and our Southside Drive-Thru continue to remain open.
Bexar County Heritage and Parks
All County park playscapes, play equipment and, basketball courts will close as of Friday, March 27, and remain closed through the duration of the Stay Home, Work Safe orders.
Playground equipment will be closed off and later wrapped to prevent any unauthorized use. County open green spaces, trails, picnic tables, and restrooms will remain open. Picnic tables, water fountains, and restrooms have been and will continue to be cleaned and sanitized 2-4 times per day, depending on frequency of use.
Park staff will continue to monitor and maintain grounds, as well as provide reminders to maintain social distancing while using County parks open spaces.
Bexar County Clerk’s Office
Effective Monday, April 6, there will be no public access to all Bexar County Clerk offices on Tuesdays and Thursdays. In addition, offices will be closed for lunch from noon to 1 p.m. every day. In order to protect our staff and the public, we are limiting any in-person transactions to appointments only for essential needs at this time. Appointments will only be available on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and will be restricted to only the party or parties involved.
Service appointments for marriage licenses and business names can be requested online through their website at www.bexar.org/CountyClerkSchedule. To request certified copies of marriage licenses and business names, call 210-335-3009. To file or request certified real estate property records, call 210-335-2273. For any other services, call 210-335-2216.
Click here to view the letter from the Bexar County Clerk.
Military and Veterans Services Center
The Bexar County Military and Veterans Services Center remains committed to providing benefit and employment services to the military community. Because the health and safety of our community is a top priority, we are taking a number of precautionary measures. Services will continue to be available utilizing telephonic means and virtual technology. Call 210-335-6775 for assistance with VA benefits, claims, and pension questions. For employment or career counseling services, call 210-787-0798.
Click here to view the points of contact available.
Juvenile Probation Department
All children being admitted into the Cyndi Taylor Krier Juvenile Treatment Center will undergo a health screening and have their temperature taken prior to being released. Additional screenings for visitors will be taken. There is also an increased focus on cleaning high traffic area and frequently touched surfaces.
View the complete Juvenile letter here.
County Courts at Law and District Courts
The Bexar County Courts at Law and District Courts have issued several orders regarding the suspension of jury duty, limiting dockets, reducing the number of visitors, and enforcement of standard possession orders.
- View the letter from Judge Ron Rangel.
- View the letter from Judge Cynthia Marie Chapa.
- View the letter from Judge John A. Longoria.
- View the revised statement regarding the Enforcement of Standard Possession for Spring Break from the Bexar County District Courts.
- View the letter from Judge Monique Diaz, regarding Spring Break provisions of Standard Possession Orders, for the 150th District Court
- View Special Order Regarding Weekly Presiding Schedule for the Criminal District Courts
- View the Special Order Regarding the Wearing of Face Coverings While in Court
- Supplemental Order Regarding Temporary Suspension of Jury Service Due to Pandemic
Community COVID-19 Testing
FREE Mobile Test Collection is Coming to Your Community
You will be screened if you have:
- Fever and/or Chills
- Cough (Dry or Productive)
- Fatigue
- Body Aches/Muscle or Joint Pain
- Shortness of Breath
- Sore Throat
- Headaches
- Nausea/Vomiting/Diarrhea
- Nasal Congestion
- Loss of Taste and/or Smell
For additional information on COVID-19 testing and testing sites, please visit the City of San Antonio’s page at https://covid19.sanantonio.gov/What-YOU-Can-Do/Testing
Mental Health Resources
COVID-19 Mental Health Hotline
Texas Health and Human Services has launched a 24/7 statewide mental health support line to help Texans experiencing anxiety, stress, or emotional challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
This new resource offers COVID-19-related mental health support for all Texans. People can call the Statewide COVID-19 Mental Health Support Line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week toll-free at 833-986-1919.
Read full details about the hotline.
Information for your Family
Bexar County Temporary Rental Assistance Measure (TRAM)
Beginning on Friday, May 1, 2020, at 10 a.m., residents in unincorporated Bexar County and 26 suburban cities (e.g., Leon Valley, Kirby, Somerset), will be able to apply for rental assistance through Bexar County’s Temporary Rental Assistance Measure (TRAM). The program will be managed by the Housing Authority of Bexar County (HABC).
The HABC-managed program will offer 1-3 months of rental assistance (in accordance with HUD Fair Market Rent limits) for residents of unincorporated Bexar County and 26 suburban cities outside of San Antonio
Residents can apply online and get complete details at www.habctx.org/TRAM or can call 210-940-1180 if they do not have access to the internet.
Applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis, with payments that will be made directly by HABC to the resident’s landlord.
Bexar County Strong Workforce Program
Residents in unincorporated Bexar County and 26 suburban cities (e.g., Leon Valley, Kirby, Somerset), will be able to apply for workforce training assistance or be connected to jobs and work experience opportunities through the Bexar County Strong Workforce Program.
Residents can check their eligibility and apply online at https://www.workforcesolutionsalamo.org/relief-recovery-now/ or can call 210-224-HELP (4357) if they do not have access to the internet.
Employers looking for assistance to fill jobs and work experience opportunities can reach out to SA Works at 210-226-1394 or email at saworks@sanantonioedf.com for more information.
Bexar County Utility Assistance
Applications for assistance paying your CPS Energy bill can be requested by phone at 210-355-3666, or email at clientservices@bexar.org. Appointments for Pauper Burial services can be scheduled by calling 210-355-0757.
Bexar County Elections Office
To fill out a voter registration form, please visit www.bexar.org/VoterRegistration.
BiblioTech Public Library
Beginning on May 4, all BiblioTech branches will reopen on a limited basis to provide much needed digital and essential services to the public. All branches will reopen in compliance with Gov. Greg Abbott’s plan to reopen Texas and the County’s own executive orders.
During this transitional period, branches will only be open Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and patrons will be limited to 25 percent of what is listed on the certificate of occupancy. Additionally, all visitors and staff will be required to use a face covering and have their temperature taken.
Among the provided services will be free printing (up to 10 pages), copying, scanning and faxing the use of the computers (limited to one hour), and device checkouts for tablets and Wi-Fi hotspots. While no classes will be held, BiblioTech staff will be available to help answer technical questions. Patrons are also expected to follow all directions given to them by BiblioTech staff – which include following directional signage and maintaining social distancing.
All BiblioTech resources continue to be available online 24/7 at https://bexarbibliotech.org/.
Resources
- Via Transit Updates
- Mental Health:
- Get Your Home Ready
Information for Your Business
- SBA Guidance for Businesses and Employers to Plan and Respond to Coronavirus Disease 19 (COVID-19)
- SBA to Provide Disaster Assistance Loans for Small Businesses Impacted by Coronavirus (COVID-19)
- SBA Disaster Assistance in Response to Coronavirus (PDF)
- Three-Step SBA Disaster Loan (English) (PDF)
- Three-Step SBA Disaster Loan (Spanish) (PDF)
Unemployment Benefits
On March 17, 2020, Texas Governor Greg Abbott instructed the Texas Workforce Commission to waive the waiting week, for Unemployment Benefits. In addition to waiving the waiting week, the Texas Workforce Commission is exercising its authority under the Governor’s declaration of a Statewide Disaster to waive Unemployment Insurance work search requirements effective immediately.
Those seeking to apply for Unemployment Benefits will need to submit an application.
Additional Workforce Solutions Alamo Services
Resources for the Food and Beverage Industry
Visit San Antonio has created an #eatlocal web page that highlights restaurants providing alternative dining options such as take-out, delivery, and drive-thru services.
If you’d like to include your restaurant on this list, email marketing-communications@visitsanantonio.com with:
- Business name
- Physical address
- Phone number
Disaster Relief Initiatives for Food and Beverage Industry
Shared Work Program
The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) encourages employers to enroll in the Shared Work program as an alternative to layoffs. The voluntary Shared Work program was developed to help Texas employers and employees withstand a slowdown in business such as the impact of COVID-19.
For more information visit the TWC Shared Work page.
Other Resources
Access from AT&T
In response to the COVID-19 public health crisis, AT&T is extending the ACCESS from AT&T offer of two (2) months free service to new customers who order ACCESS by May 23. Thereafter, the cost is $5/month or $10/month (depending on speed) plus taxes and fees. AT&T is also temporarily expanding eligibility.
ACCESS from AT&T provides wireline Home Internet (speeds up to 10 Mbps) to eligible income households who participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). There is no annual commitment, no deposit, and no installation or equipment fees. Eligibility is temporarily expanded to include households participating in the National School Lunch Program, Head Start, and households with an income of 135% of less than the federal poverty guidelines. AT&T is also temporarily waiving all home internet data overage fees.
COVID-19 Information Websites
Informational Videos
Resource Documents
- Fact Sheet (PDF)
- Testing Algorithm (PDF)
- Health Advisory (PDF)
- Hospital Poster English (PDF)
- Hospital Poster Chinese (PDF)
- Hospital Poster Spanish (PDF)
- Hand Washing Poster (PDF)
What is COVID19?
Reduce Your Risk
COVID19 Fact Sheet
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Office of Emergency Management
Physical Address
8130 Inner Circle
San Antonio, TX 78235