The Clemson Police Department was made aware of a concert that was held on Friday night at a local establishment. Video and still photos posted on social media showed what appeared to be an unlawful gathering that was a risk to public health and safety. The Clemson Police department is conducting an investigation into the matter. No arrests or citations were issued on that evening. On Saturday night, CPD issued a notice to all establishments declaring gatherings of this nature are a violation of the Governor's emergency orders and will not be allowed in the future, and any owner or operator of a business that allows or provides such a gathering to occur can be criminally charged with violating the order.
The City of Clemson, in partnership with the Governor and Clemson University, is committed to providing a strong, vibrant, and safe business environment for our residents and visitors. We are all concerned about the current pandemic and consider the recommendations issued by the Center for Disease Control for guidance on how to help prevent the spread of COVID 19. In order to help prevent the spread of this virus and allow our businesses to operate, the Governor and City Council have enacted laws to give guidance and mandates on how to prevent the spread of the virus.
The Governor has given the authority to law enforcement officials to monitor gatherings of more than three persons on public, semipublic, and private property and if, in the opinion of the law enforcement official, the gathering is such that poses a public health risk, the law enforcement official can lawfully give a dispersal order. Anyone who fails to comply with or impedes this order to disperse can be subject to arrest.
The City of Clemson has enacted a mandatory mask ordinance and mandates the wearing of a mask both inside and outside of a building. In order to help accommodate businesses who have to lower their capacity in order to comply with these restrictions, the City Council has made adjustments to the open container ordinance to allow businesses to expand where patrons can consume food and drinks. The City also has a social host ordinance that mandates prior approval before hosting a gathering outside of a business. This ordinance has not changed since its adoption.
The City of Clemson and Clemson University Police Departments will be utilizing the emergency orders, city ordinances, and CDC recommendations when determining if a gathering is unlawful. If one is observed, the law enforcement official will issue a dispersal order and allow a reasonable amount of time for the crowd to disperse. Anyone who fails to comply or impedes the officer’s orders is subjected to being charged with a misdemeanor.
Copies of the Governor’s Orders can be located at this website: https://governor.sc.gov/executive-branch/executive-orders
City of Clemson’s Mask Ordinance: https://www.clemsoncity.org/Portals/0/CoCGovernment/City%20Council/CC-2020-17%20Executed%20Emergency%20Ordinance%20Face%20Coverings.pdf?ver=htI1Kf3tujZkk1qgG5y1vg%3D%3D
City of Clemson Code of Ordinances: http://online.encodeplus.com/regs/clemson-sc/doc-viewer.aspx#secid-1