Confusion over what business activity is permitted during the lockdown has led to rows between workers, employers and members of the public in Dundee and Angus.
The latest Scottish Government advice states that all non-essential businesses must close.
However, differing interpretations of the guidelines have caused tension within communities.
In Kirriemuir, members of the public contacted the police and Angus Council after gift shop Joshua Plumtree continued to trade by taking orders online and over the phone.
As well as gifts, the shop sells food and hand sanitiser, and has been doing doorstep deliveries of various goods.
One member of the public who wouldn’t be named, said: “I don’t see how selling gifts and things like bird food is essential.
“A lot of their customers are elderly, so it’s a risk. Most other high street shops have had to close.”
Police officers visited the premises and the council’s environmental health officers gave the business the green light to continue to trade. Angus councillor Julie Bell said the shop has closed but bosses were continuing on Facebook and taking orders and payments by telephone.
“From the precautions they have taken to maintain distance, and by making home deliveries, I am confident government guidelines are being met for the type of business this is, having also sought advice from our environmental health colleagues in the council,” she said.
A Police Scotland spokesman said: “Officers attended at the premises and suitable advice was given.”
Meanwhile staff at Dover Fueling Solutions in Dundee, a supplier of fuel dispensers, payment terminals and forecourt control devices, were sent home after going public with claims that they were being “pressured” to work amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The firm is appealing for employees to return to work on a voluntary basis after seeking further government guidance on their essential business status.
A DFS spokeswoman said: “After careful consideration, and following in-depth discussions with authorities, Dover Fueling Solutions has decided to re-open its Dundee manufacturing facility on a very limited basis and with enhanced safety measures implemented, beginning Tuesday, 31, March 2020.
“The Scottish government has classified the transportation industry as an essential service. As such, DFS Dundee is believed to be a key component in this vital industry.
“DFS is staffing its return to work on a volunteer, ‘symptom free’ basis only. No employee will be expected to work if they are not comfortable in doing so. Additionally, DFS has put in place extra measures to ensure the safety of all staff working at its manufacturing facility, including enhanced sanitation practices, strict social distancing rules and visitation restrictions.”
