(A) Definitions. For the purpose of this section, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
MASK, HOOD or FACE COVERING. Any device that covers or conceals any portion of a person’s face so as to conceal the identity of the wearer.
PUBLIC PLACE. A place to which the public or substantial groups of persons has access and includes, but is not limited to: highways, streets, lanes, alleys, roads, sidewalks, transportation facilities; schools, places of amusements, parks, places of business, playgrounds; and hallways, lobbies and other portions of apartment houses and hotels not constituting rooms or apartments designed for actual residence.
(B) Wearing hoods or masks in a public place. Subject to the exemptions set forth in division (C) below, no group of three or more persons shall, while wearing any mask, hood or face covering, enter, remain or appear in any public place within the city.
(C) Exemptions. The following are exempted from the provision of division (B) above:
(1) Any person under 16 years of age;
(2) Any person using masks in theatrical productions, including use in Mardi Gras celebrations or similar masquerade balls;
(3) Any person wearing a traditional holiday costume in season;
(4) Any person engaged in a trade or employment where a mask, hood or face covering is worn for the purpose of ensuring the physical safety of the wearer or because of the nature of the trade or employment;
(5) Any person wearing a mask, hood or face covering for the sole purpose of protection from the elements or while participating in a sporting event;
(6) Any person wearing a mask, hood or face covering prescribed for civil defense drills, exercises or emergencies;
(7) Any person wearing a mask, hood or face covering for bona fide medical reasons upon the advice of a licensed physician or osteopath and able to produce, upon request, evidence of the medical necessity for wearing the device; and/or
(8) Any person engaging in an activity such that the wearing of the mask, hood or face covering is protected by the Constitution of the commonwealth or the United States Constitution.
(Ord. 2017-08, passed 10-9-2017) Penalty, see § 130.99