Mayor Hardie Davis, Jr. issued Executive Order 2020-009 Protect Augustans requiring facial coverings or masks to be worn in public places and all government buildings within Augusta-Richmond County in order to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus disease known as COVID-19.

"The mask requirement aligns with recommendations of public health officials and takes action to protect all Augustans and slow the spread of coronavirus. The Governor’s encouragement is not sufficient to save lives and ensure that the current surge in COVID cases and deaths does not overload our healthcare systems.” 

Executive Order 2020-009 is effective July 10, 2020 at 6:00pm to August 8, 2020 at 11:59PM

All persons entering a commercial establishment as a consumer, and all employees working in a commercial establishment (including, but not limited to, restaurants, retail stores, salons, grocery stores, and pharmacies) in Augusta-Richmond County are required to wear a face covering while having face-to-face interaction with each party. Employees that are working alone in a separate office space or in work spaces not accessible to the public, and where social distancing can be done easily with sufficient space, there is no face covering or mask required. This order does not apply to religious establishments, but it is strongly encouraged to use a face covering or mask when engaging in religious activity, to protect yourself and those around you. 

Face coverings or mask are also not required in the following circumstances:

·       In personal vehicles

·       When an individual is alone in an enclosed space or with other members that live in the same home

·       During outdoor physical activity, provided that all individuals at all times maintain a minimum of six (6) feet between others they do not live with

·       While eating, drinking or smoking

·       When wearing a face covering or mask aggravates a health condition

·       When wearing a face covering or mask would interfere with the receipt of personal services

·       When an individual is ten (10) years of age or younger 

Furthermore, if an individual does not have a mask when entering a government building, they will be provided one. If the individual refuses to accept and wear the mask, entry will be denied.