Masking in Minneapolis

Masking no longer required in City buildings

Effective March 10, 2022 the mayor has rescinded the order requiring masks in City-managed properties. Read the order to learn more. 

Minneapolis mask order rescinded for spaces of public accommodation

Effective February 24, 2022 the Mayor has rescinded the order requiring masks in spaces of public accommodation. Read the order to learn more.

• Masks continue to be required for everyone indoors in Minneapolis Public Schools. Face coverings also continue to be required by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on public transportation.
• Businesses may choose to continue to require visitors and staff to wear masks in their spaces. 

Updated CDC guidelines on masking

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. CDC recommends that those in high risk areas continue wearing masks indoors. However, in areas of low and medium risk, CDC recommends that people choose whether or not they will wear a mask based on their individual situation. 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 fits snugly against your nose and chin with no large gaps around the sides of the face, AND
• That has two or more layers of tightly woven or non-woven material, AND
• That you will be comfortable wearing.
• Recommendations for Wearing Masks - Minnesota Dept. of Health (state.mn.us), 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• How to safely wear your mask