Mask guidance

We share information about when, how and why to wear a mask to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Masks in Minneapolis

City buildings

You are not required to wear a mask in City buildings. 

Updated CDC guidelines

The CDC has developed new COVID-19 Community Levels that help communities decide what prevention steps to take based on the latest data related to hospitalizations and hospital capacity.

Read the updated CDC guidelines

Use the CDC COVID-19 Community Level tool to check the current level in your county.

How wearing a mask can slow the spread of COVID-19

COVID-19 spreads when an infected person breathes out droplets and very small particles that contain the virus. These droplets and particles can then be breathed in by other people or land on their eyes, noses, or mouth. 

  • Protect others: wearing a mask over your mouth and nose lowers the number of respiratory droplets and particles that you release into the air when you breathe or talk.
  • Protect yourself: wearing a mask over your mouth and nose also lowers the number of respiratory droplets and particles from someone else that get into your nose, mouth, and lungs.

What kind of mask should I wear

There are many types of masks you can use to protect against getting and spreading COVID- 19.  Choose a mask that:

  • Has two or more layers of tightly woven or non-woven material
  • You will be comfortable wearing

Recommendations for Wearing Masks - Minnesota Dept. of Health 

Your Guide to Masks - CDC

How to wear a mask properly

  • Wash your hands before putting on your mask and after taking it off
  • A mask must cover the nose and mouth completely and fit snugly against your face without gaps
  • The mask should not be overly tight or restrictive and should feel comfortable to wear
  • If you wear glasses, find a mask that fits closely over your nose or one that has a nose wire to limit fogging
  • Do not touch the mask when wearing it. If you often have to touch or adjust your mask, it does not fit you properly and you may need to find a different mask or make adjustments
  • Wash your mask after each time you wear it

Children

  • For children 2 years and older, find a mask that is made for children to help ensure proper fit
  • Children under age 2 should not wear a mask

How to safely wear your mask

Request accessible format

If you need help with this information, please email 311, or call 311 or 612-673-3000.

Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

Contact us

Environmental Health

Health Department

Phone

612-673-3000

Address

Public Service Center
505 Fourth Ave S, Room 520
Minneapolis, MN 55415