Face Coverings
As California reopens and physical distancing requirements and capacity limits are lifted, the risk of COVID-19 is still present, especially for those who are not fully vaccinated against the virus. If you aren’t fully vaccinated, your mask is one of the most powerful tools you have to protect yourself, as well as other unvaccinated people, when in public. This is especially true when you are in an indoor or crowded outdoor space.
There are places where everyone 2 years of age and older must* continue to wear a mask, whether or not they are fully vaccinated. Remember, masks are still an excellent way to protect yourself and others, even when they’re not required by law.
*Infants and children under 2 years of age should not wear a mask. Children ages 2 to 8 should wear a mask only when under adult supervision. Also see Who should not wear a mask and Special considerations for persons with communication difficulties or certain disabilities.
Note that in the workplace, workers have to follow Cal/OSHA mask requirements which are different than the guidance below.
If you are fully vaccinated, you are not required to wear a mask, except in places where EVERYONE is required to wear a mask. Keep your vaccine record handy as businesses can ask for proof of vaccination. EVERYONE, regardless of vaccination status, must wear a mask:
- On planes, trains, buses, ferries, taxis and ride-shares, and all other forms of public transport
- In transportation hubs like airports, bus terminals, train stations, marinas, seaports or other ports, subway stations, or any other area that provides transportation
- Healthcare settings
- Shelters and cooling centers
- Indoors at any youth-serving facility (such as K-12 schools, childcare, day camps, etc.)
- Any business or government office serving the public that requires everyone to wear a mask
In addition, unvaccinated people must also wear a mask in indoor public settings and businesses, for example:
- Movie theaters
- Restaurants
- Retail Spaces
- Family entertainment centers
- Mega-events
- Meetings
- Government offices serving the public
For masks to work properly, they need to completely cover your nose and mouth and fit snugly against the sides of your face and around your nose. Your mask should be made with two or more layers of tightly woven, breathable material. Details, including information on double masking, are below.
View additional information about face coverings on the Los Angeles Department of Public Health's website.
How to Manage Patrons and Visitors Who Refuse to Wear Face Coverings
As businesses open, and more individuals venture back into public places, it is very important that everyone continue to comply with physical distancing requirements and infection control practices such as the use of face coverings.
Unfortunately, some businesses or venues may be placed in the difficult position of managing customers or visitors who knowingly or unknowingly do not adhere to the rules. Los Angeles County has prepared a guidance document to provide businesses with tools for preparing for potential incidents with non-compliant individuals.
View the Guidance Document for Managing Non-Compliant Patrons and Visitors.