Fines for not covering your face under new laws

Thursday 11 February 2021

People could face on-the-spot fines of £100 if they are caught in an indoor public place without a face covering, unless they qualify for an exemption.

The States has announced that, from Saturday, it will be mandatory to wear a mask or other suitable face covering in supermarkets and other indoor public spaces.

Since the beginning of lockdown, wearing a mask in public places has been "strongly advised" but not enforced. That will remain the case for children under the age of 12 and anyone when they are outdoors. 

The newly-approved laws apply specifically to indoor public places - such as shops, supermarkets, petrol stations, GP practices and public transport. 

"It will be possible for those not wearing face coverings to be stopped and issued with a fixed penalty notice," said States CEO Paul Whitfield.

"Law Enforcement officers will have the authority to issue fixed penalty notices of up to £100 if there are identified breaches regarding face coverings. Please follow the rules, which are for everybody's safety."

Pictured: The new legislation was announced at today's media briefing. 

CCA Advisor Deputy Heidi Soulsby said a full list of exemptions will be published on the States website in due course. This will include people who rely on lip reading and facial expression in order to communicate or understand communication. 

"Other exemptions include if a person cannot put on, wear or remove a face covering because of a physical or mental illness or impairment or disability - if putting on, wearing or removing a face covering will cause a person severe distress," said Deputy Soulsby.

She underlined that masks are worn to protect others, not the wearer, as they block off the nose and mouth and help to cut off transmission of any germs. 

Mr Whitfield said the States is working on an 'exemption card' which can be printed out and taken out with you, along with several other measures for people with legitimate reasons for not covering their face. 

"If you qualify for one of the exemptions listed, we are developing several mechanisms to help you evidence that. We are working with the essential retail sector who will have stocks of sunflower lanyards for those that declare within those shops that they qualify by way of an exemption."