Within hours of  Gov. Gavin Newsom announcing stricter guidance to flatten the COVID-19 curve as Californians head into Fourth of July Weekend, the city of Palm Springs issued a supplementary order that strengthens face-covering regulations for residents and businesses.

Effective immediately, the following additional requirements for wearing face coverings in a public setting now apply:

  • Outdoors, standing, walking, hiking, bicycling or running, on any sidewalk that is adjacent to any business establishment.
  • In fitness centers (including gyms, yoga studios, and dance fitness studios). Face coverings must be worn at all times within such locations, including while exercising.
  • Picking up food, or in-person dining, at a restaurant that is allowed to be open.

In addition, face coverings are now NOT required to be worn by people who are:

  • Seated at a table or bar at a restaurant that is allowed to be open. However, if any employee (such as a waiter/waitress, etc.) approaches the table/bar, each person at the table/bar must put on his/her face covering while the employee is present at the bar/table.
  • Outdoors, standing, walking, hiking, bicycling or running, at a location other than on a sidewalk adjacent to a business establishment. However, people must comply with social distancing during these activities, including maintaining at least six feet of separation from other people. People should also have a face covering readily accessible.
  • Those with a health condition whose medical provider has advised against wearing a face covering and can provide documentation. Such persons must wear a protective face shield.

In regards to businesses (whether for profit or not for profit), the order additionally now requires:

  • Every hotel, motel, vacation rental, or timeshare must post signage, advising of the face covering and social distancing rules applicable within the city of Palm Springs. Such signage must be posted at a conspicuous location at every entrance and exit to such building, as well as on the inside of the door of every hotel/motel/timeshare room. For vacation rentals, such signage must be posted on or next to the main door on the inside. Continued violations of the order may result in fines or revocation of business license.

To view the full order, click here.

Image Sources

  • Face covering: Shutterstock