The COVID-19 pandemic presents unique challenges for farmers’ markets. The Department of Public Health works closely with farmers’ market operators to ensure safety protocols and best practices that protect staff and customers alike.
In addition to the documents below, see:
- Recommendations for urban architecture and community gardening during COVID-19 (Garden Justice Legal Initiative)
- COVID-19 guidelines for farmers market operations (Penn State Extension)
- April 1, 2021 virtual meeting for farmers’ market operators (YouTube)
| Name | Description | Released | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Farmers market COVID-19 operating plan PDF | Criteria for what operators need to include in their COVID-19 operating plan that must be submitted to the Health Department's Office of Food Protection prior to opening. | April 29, 2021 | |
| Tips and best practices for farmers markets and farm stands during COVID-19 PDF | Guidance to ensure the health and safety of operators, staff, and customers. | April 29, 2021 | |
| Guidelines for farmers markets PDF | Requirements for how to safely operate a market during COVID-19. | April 29, 2021 | |
| Guidelines poster #1 PDF | "Wear a face covering or mask at all times. Everyone must wear a mask to enter." (in multiple languages) | June 14, 2021 | |
| Guidelines poster #2 PDF | "Stay six feet apart. A six-foot distance from other people prevents the spread of COVID-19." (in multiple languages) | June 14, 2021 | |
| Guidelines poster #3 PDF | "Do not handle produce or products. Vendors will select items for you." (in multiple languages) | June 14, 2021 | |
| Guidelines poster #4 PDF | "Do not eat food inside the market. Please enjoy your food at a distance from the market." (in multiple languages) | June 14, 2021 | |
| Guidelines poster #5 PDF | "Use sanitation stations to wash and sanitize your hands often." (in multiple languages) | June 14, 2021 | |
| Guidelines poster #6 PDF | "No dogs allowed in market area. Service dogs are an exception." (in multiple languages) | June 14, 2021 | |
| Guidelines poster #7 PDF | "Please listen to market managers and staff." (in multiple languages) | June 14, 2021 | |
| Powerpoint presentation from virtual meeting PDF | Powerpoint presentation from the April 1, 2021 virtual meeting for farmers market operators. | April 29, 2021 | |
| Agenda and notes from virtual meeting PDF | Agenda and notes from the April 1, 2021 virtual meeting for farmers market operators. | April 29, 2021 |