D.C. to remove capacity, activity restrictions for most businesses on May 21 Michael Brice-Saddler, Jenna Portnoy D.C. Mayor Muriel E. Bowser said the District will lift capacity and other restrictions on most businesses and public venues by May 21, a decision that comes as coronavirus cases and deaths are plummeting and residents and business are demanding more freedom. Restrictions on bars and nightclubs, large entertainment venues and sports arenas will remain in place another three weeks but will be lifted June 11, Bowser said at a news conference. Masks will still be required indoors. The number of new coronavirus cases has declined sharply in the District, Virginia and Maryland over the past several weeks, as vaccinations have taken hold and spring weather lures people outside, where the virus is less likely to spread.