State of Emergency - Mask Order

Mayor Andrew J. Ginther today signed an executive order declaring a State of Emergency in the City of Columbus and requiring that face masks be worn by individuals age 6 and older while in indoor spaces accessible to the public, including but not limited to city buildings, office buildings, retail establishments, bars and restaurants, and public transportation.

“New cases are on the rise, hospitalizations are on the rise, and the strain on our medical and public health professionals has reached a critical point,” said Mayor Ginther. “It is vital that we act now to protect the health and well-being of our community while keeping our economy, our schools and our city open for business.”

The order takes effect immediately (as of September 10, 2021) and remains in place until it is rescinded by Mayor Ginther. Exemptions to the order include those younger than 6 years of age; individuals with medical or behavioral conditions that preclude them from wearing a face covering; and anyone actively eating and drinking, engaged in sports and recreational activities, and giving a speech or performance before a live audience.

Columbus Public Health will issue citations to businesses and organizations that fail to comply or enforce the order among their patrons or employees. The public may report violations to the city’s 311 Customer Service Center.