This week, in response to rising COVID-19 case counts, Beaufort County leaders have passed a series of local regulations requiring masks to be worn in public spaces.
Because each municipality is taking a slightly different approach to masking requirements, residents and visitors will have to learn a patchwork of new rules.
HILTON HEAD ISLAND
Where do I have to wear a mask?
In all commercial spaces, customers and employees must wear a face mask.
That includes restaurants, bars, grocery stores, pharmacies, gyms, lobbies, and public spaces in hotels, motels and timeshare complexes, salons, retail stores, medical and dental offices.
Do I have to wear a mask on the beach?
No. Hilton Head’s mask ordinance does not cover public parks, beaches, or outdoor spaces.
What about when I’m eating at a restaurant?
You must wear a mask while entering, exiting, and moving around a restaurant. You may remove the mask only while you are actually eating or drinking.
What happens if I don’t wear a mask?
Someone found in violation of the mask ordinance would be guilty of a misdemeanor. A misdemeanor on Hilton Head is punishable by a fine of up to $500 or up to 30 days in jail.
BLUFFTON
Who has to wear a mask and where?
Anyone entering a building open to the public, whether a private business or publicly owned facility, inside town limits, must wear a mask.
Face coverings are also required on public and commercial road transportation, including tours. Employees of all restaurants and retail establishments must wear masks when working in an area frequented by the general public, including outdoor spaces such as patios or pickup and delivery areas.
What happens if I don’t wear a mask?
Violating the mask ordinance is a civil infraction, punishable by a fine of up to $50. Repeated violations of the ordinance by someone who owns or operates a business can result in legal action or business license revocation, although the ordinance says town officials will make efforts to achieve voluntary compliance before issuing a citation.
Businesses may decline entry or service to a customer who refuses to wear a mask.
What about restaurants?
The ordinance says people who are actively eating or drinking don’t have to wear a mask. At all other times, the mask rules apply inside restaurant buildings.
>>These are only a few details of the mask ordinances. For additional information CLICK HERE.