With May 4 marking the first day of Phase One of Florida’s reopening process, new face mask requirements begin in Alachua County and across the state.

To continue keeping Alachua County safe, “persons working in or visiting grocery stores, restaurants, retail facilities, pharmacies, construction sites, public transit vehicles, vehicles for hire, and locations where social distancing measures are not possible shall wear facial coverings as defined by the CDC,” according to Alachua County Emergency Order 2020-21. “A face covering shall not be required for children under six, persons who have trouble breathing due to a chronic pre-existing condition or individuals with a documented or demonstrable medical problem.” 

Homemade face masks are allowed, as well as non-medial grade face masks, as long as they fit snugly around your face, mouth and nose and are secured with ties or elastic. N-95 face masks should be reserved for or donated to healthcare centers. Also, masks do not have to be worn while drinking or eating. 

For more information regarding personal protective equipment and examples of homemade face masks, consult the CDC’s website. To read the full emergency order, click here. 

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