City of Dunwoody passes mask ordinance

The new ordinance takes effect immediately and applies to people in public places and consenting businesses, with exceptions.

Dunwoody, GA – August 19, 2020 – During a special called meeting this morning, the Dunwoody City Council unanimously approved an emergency ordinance that requires the use of masks or face coverings in public places and consenting businesses to limit the spread of COVID-19. It aligns with Governor Brian Kemp’s most recent executive order.

“Masks are already required in Dunwoody City Hall, Municipal Court and other city-owned buildings, and most businesses in Dunwoody require customers to wear masks, as well,” said Dunwoody Mayor Lynn Deutsch. “This new ordinance reaffirms our commitment to protect employees in customer-facing positions.”

The ordinance requires people to wear a facial covering or mask over the mouth and nose when physical distancing is difficult. Exemptions include the following:

Children under 10 years old
Inside a personal vehicle
While eating or drinking
Those with a medical condition that prevents masking
When outdoors and maintaining social distance

Exemptions also apply to those engaged in group sports that allow athletes to maintain a six-foot distance from others with infrequent moments of closer proximity and those involved in activities that a professional or recreational association, regulatory entity, medical association, or other public-health-oriented entity has determined cannot be safely conducted while wearing a mask or other face covering. The ordinance takes effect immediately and extends through September 30, 2020.

Those who refuse to comply will first be given a warning and options to put on a face covering or leave the premises. After that, they’re subject to a civil penalty of up to $25.00 for the first offense and up to $50.00 for subsequent offenses.

“The goal is public awareness and understanding and not punishment,” Mayor Deutsch added. “It’s my hope that residents will work with business management to resolve any concerns before involving the city or law enforcement.”

Businesses that opt out of the ordinance have to post the following in one-inch Arial font at the entrance: "This location does not consent to enforcement of any local face covering requirement upon this property."

For more on the City's response to COVID-19, click here.

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For more information, contact Jennifer Boettcher, Communications Director: 678.382.6881, Jennifer.Boettcher@dunwoodyga.gov.

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