PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — Everyone in Pasco County will be required to use face coverings after an executive order was issued Tuesday afternoon.
Pasco County Administrator Dan Biles issued the executive order in hopes of preventing the spread of coronavirus.
"Pasco County is seeing a sharp increase in the number of COVID-19 cases, including an increase in our younger population," Public Information Officer Brendan Fitterer said in a press release.
The executive order requires everyone in Pasco County to use face covering while indoors at both public businesses and county government facilities. Anyone who does not comply with the order can be denied admittance and/or forced to leave the business or government facility.
The ordinance goes into effect immediately, but Pasco County Code Enforcement will not begin enforcing it until Thursday, June 25 at 5 p.m.
Those exempt from the order include:
- Children under the age of two
- Anyone with an existing health condition that would be complicated by wearing a mask
RECOMMENDED: Where are masks mandatory to wear in the Tampa Bay area?
Businesses must ensure compliance with the order. Any business found in violation of the order could face a fine of up to $250.
The face coverings, according to the executive order, should cover both your nose and mouth.
"Using homemade or store-bought cloth face coverings, has the potential to reduce the risk for infection and save lives."
Face masks are available for pick-up at several Pasco County locations. To see the full list, click here.
To report a violation of the Face Coverings Order, please call Pasco County Customer Service at 727.847.2411, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
