In a united and unprecedented move, a shelter-in-place has been ordered for Brazos County, including the cities of Bryan and College Station.

It goes into effect at 9:00 p.m. Tuesday and will remain in effect for two weeks.

to read a copy of the order.

A hotline has been established for individuals call for information regarding the order. The number is 979-361-5136.

IS THERE A CURFEW?

The idea behind a shelter-in-place is to reduce unnecessary interaction between individuals and groups of people.

There is currently NO curfew for residents.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

You can still go outside and walk, run, ride a bicycle and exercise. You are strongly encouraged to keep a minimum distance of at least six feet between you and others around you.

You can use essential services and businesses like the grocery store, pharmacy, healthcare facilities, and convenience stores.

Essential services may also include auto shops, hardware stores, banks, gas stations, laundromats, dry cleaners, and child care facilities. These are all examples but not a complete list of essential businesses.

Looking for guidance on what could be considered essential?

Remember to keep a safe distance between you and others at these locations.

You can still go to restaurants for take-out, drive-thru, curbside services, and deliveries.

You can still care for a family member or friend.

You can still go to medical appointments after checking with your healthcare provider first.

WHAT YOU SHALL NOT DO

Do not go to work unless you are providing an essential service. Work at home if you can.

Do not visit friends and family if there is no urgent need or reason to do so.

Do not get closer than six feet away from others when you go out.

Do not gather in groups of more than 10 people.

Do not visit loved ones in the hospital, nursing home, or other residential care facilities.

Still confused about what is and is not allowed?

PUNISHMENTS

City ordinance violations are class C misdemeanors. Violators can be fined up to $1,000 and/or up-to 180 days in jail.

HOWEVER, city and county authorities say first-time violators will not be punished. Police and other officials will first educate citizens on the ordinance and help explain what it means.

Only those who absolutely refuse to comply could face penalties.

LEGAL QUESTIONS?

We have a story on KBTX.com that helps to provide some legal guidance on what the law does and does not allow for employers and employees.

to view that story.

MORE INFORMATION

The City of Bryan has released a Frequently Asked Questions document about the shelter-in-place order.

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A hotline has been established for residents to call for more information regarding the order. The number is 979-361-5136.

If you need assistance or have questions, you are encouraged to call 2-1-1.

2-1-1 may not be able to answer specifics about the shelter-in-place, but they can help with other necessities and resources.

By dialing 2-1-1, callers can receive information regarding community and social services, such as food pantries, emergency shelter, rent assistance, utility bill assistance, child care and senior services.

WATCH: The Brazos County Health District updates the public on COVID-19. Posted by KBTX Media on Monday, March 23, 2020