On April 1, 2020, Florida governor Rick DeSantis issued a Safer At Home Executive Order ordering senior citizens and those with significant medical conditions to stay at home and take measures to limit the risk of exposure to COVID-19, and for all residents to limit their movement to essential services and activities. This has caused the temporary closure of many Tampa Bay businesses and services, landscaping not included.
The portion that includes landscape services is Section 2 (A):
For purposes of this Order and the conduct it limits, “essential services” means and encompasses the list detailed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in its Guidance on the Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce, v. 2 (March 28, 2020) (attached) and any subsequent lists published.
The order can be read here: https://www.flgov.com/wp-content/uploads/orders/2020/EO_20-91.pdf
What is considered an essential service? Is landscaping included?
Essential businesses have been identified by the state of Florida with some of them being: first responders (police, fire, etc.); health care providers; pharmacies; supermarkets; gas stations; post offices, etc. These businesses in the Tampa Bay area will remain open during this time without question.
As Fieldstone continues to provide our services to you, our valued customers, the question is: “Is Landscaping Services defined and considered as an essential business?” The National Association of Landscape Professionals has issued a letter on March 17, defining landscape as an essential service based on the following criteria:
- Protecting public health.
- Protecting public safety.
- Protecting public morale.
Based on our commitment to you, our communities and the above definition, Fieldstone operates as an essential service. We will continue to work and provide the best possible services in these unprecedented times. We thank you for your continued support and confidence in Fieldstone Landscape Services during this pandemic. As always, please call us if you have any questions or concerns. We can be reached at 727-822-7866.