LAC | DPH | Mask Wearing Rules and Recommendations

4-21-22: Masks are still required in some settings and strongly recommended in others - see the summary below and details in the Health Officer Order.

Mask Wearing Rules and Recommendations Ver página en Español

County, state, and federal rules require masks for everyone* 2 years of age and older in some locations (see table).

It is strongly recommended that people continue to wear masks that fit and filter well in all indoor public places. The spread of COVID-19 continues to be a significant risk for many in Los Angeles County

EVERYONE* MUST wear a mask:
On all forms of public transportation in LA County. This includes trains, buses, taxis and ride-shares. In all indoor transportation hubs in LA County, including airport and bus terminals, train and subway stations, seaports or other indoor port terminals, or any other indoor area that serves as a transportation hub. In healthcare settings In long-term care settings and adult/senior care facilities In state and local correctional facilities and detention centers Shelters and cooling centers In any other location where it is the policy of the business or venue
Masks are STRONGLY RECOMMENDED for EVERYONE in:
Airplanes Indoor public settings and businesses such as retail, restaurants, theaters, family entertainment centers, cardrooms, meetings, state and local government offices that serve the public. Indoors at K-12 schools and daycare
Additional mask recommendations
Masks are strongly recommended indoors or in crowded outdoor settings for people at high risk of severe illness, or who live with someone who is at high risk. Masks that provide the best protection against COVID-19 should be worn. Examples include a well-fitting respirator (e.g., N95, KN95) or a double mask (a well-fitting cloth mask over a medical mask). Masks are strongly recommended for people who are gathering indoors with people who are at high risk of severe illness.

Note: When masks are required, you are allowed to take off your mask while you are:

Actively eating or drinking.
Alone in a separate room or space.
Showering or swimming.
Receiving medical, dental, cosmetic, personal hygiene or personal care services (like a facial or shave) that cannot be done without removing your mask.
Receiving or providing a speech, occupational or language therapy session where temporary removal of the mask is necessary, as determined by the therapy provider.

*There are some people who should not wear a mask, such as children younger than 2, people with certain medical conditions or disabilities, and people instructed by their medical provider not to wear a mask. Children ages 2 to 8 should wear a mask only when under adult supervision. See Who should not wear a mask and Special considerations for persons with communication difficulties or certain disabilities.