In an effort to slow the increase in and level of transmission of COVID-19 currently being seen in Los Angeles County, the LA County Department of Public Health (“DPH”) has issued an outdoor mask requirement for Mega Events beginning Thursday, August 19, 2021, at 11:59 p.m.
Under the Order of Health Officer issued by DPH on August 16, 2021, masks must now be worn at all Outdoor Mega Events regardless of vaccination status. Outdoor Mega Events are defined by DPH as those with crowds of more than 10,000 persons. This new health order also clarifies that “actively eating or drinking” is the limited time during which the mask can be removed briefly to eat or drink, and that it must be immediately put back afterward. Patrons, customers or guests must be seated at a table or positioned at a stationary counter, ticketed seat, or place while actively eating or drinking indoors, or while actively eating or drinking at an Outdoor Mega Event.
For Indoor and Outdoor Mega Events, operators are also encouraged to follow these additional recommendations:
- For Outdoor Mega Events, assign staff to remind all guests to wear a face mask while on the premises or location.
- Encourage everyone to get vaccinated when eligible.
- Facilitate increased ventilation of indoor spaces (i.e., open all windows and doors to increase natural airflow), following California Department of Public Health Interim Guidance for Ventilation, Filtration and Air Quality in Indoor Environments.
For more information, view the PDF below.