Osceola County modifies order requiring face masks in public

Osceola County modifies face mask requirement

An mandate requiring that face masks be worn by anyone in public in Osceola County went into effect on Monday. The county has since modified the executive order to remove a $500 fine or jail time for those who violate the mandate,

LAKE MARY, Fla. - Osceola County’s emergency order that requires people to wear face coverings in public was modified by the executive policy group on Monday afternoon.

Osceola County offficials on Friday announced an executive order requiring all people to where face masks to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.

The new order removes a potential $500 penalty and the possibility of jail time. The following exemptions are cited in the order:

Persons under the age of two years.
Persons for whom a face covering would cause impairment due to an existing health condition.
Persons working in a professional who do not have any face-to- face interactions with the public.
Persons working in a profession where use of a face covering will not be compatible with the duties of the profession.
Persons exercising, while observing social distancing in accordance with the CDC guidelines.

The county on Monday reported over 330 positive COVID-19 cases and 96 hospitalizations as of Friday afternoon. There have been five deaths.

Every person working, living, visiting, or doing business in Osceola County is required to wear a cloth facial covering consistent with the current CDC guidelines while in any public place. Neighboring Orange County is recommending people wear face masks, but as of April 13, it was not a requirement.

Continue reading for frequently asked questions about facial coverings.

What constitutes as a face covering?

Face coverings are pieces of cloth material that securely covers a person’s nose and mouth and remains affixed in place without the use of one’s hands.

Do I need a surgical mask or an N95 mask?

No, you do not need a surgical mask or an N95 mask. It is recommended that the average resident does not use these types of medical masks as they are in short supply and should be reserved for healthcare professionals and first responders.