Patrons of indoor businesses in New Orleans, including bars, restaurants and live music and entertainment venues, will no longer be required to show a proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test. City officials made the announcement Monday morning and the lifting of restrictions went into effect at 6 a.m.

“This is a critical and welcome milestone,” said Mayor LaToya Cantrell in an issued statement. “I am deeply grateful to our entire community—our residents, our business owners, and our hospitality industry—for coming together to make this day possible. It could not have happened without our people taking the guidelines seriously and helping us not only flatten the curve—but emerge from the pandemic as a safe destination city. With the return of Mardi Gras this year, we were able to celebrate safely. And now we are ready for this next step. We will continue to closely monitor the data, and remain guided by science.”

Face masks are only required to board public transportation or to enter healthcare facilities per federal mandates.

“Throughout this pandemic, we’ve implemented the tools available and educated the public about the dangers of this virus, and we feel confident this approach has saved lives and kept our economy open,” said Dr. Jennifer Avegno, director of the New Orleans Health Department in an issued statement.

COVID-19 cases in Orleans Parish remain at very low levels, and hospitals are no longer burdened by peak capacity. Wastewater testing indicates a low viral transmission.

Residents should prepare for the likelihood of future surges by continuing to assess risk levels for themselves and loved ones and relying on proven mitigation strategies: testing, masks, and staying up to date with COVID vaccinations, according to a news release issued by the city.

For more information on vaccination locations in New Orleans, visit here.