Manhattan Beach Mask Enforcement To Start Saturday Morning

MANHATTAN BEACH, CA — The City of Manhattan Beach plans to begin enforcing its new mask order tomorrow, Saturday, July 18, according to city officials. After weeks of frustration with people who were not wearing masks in public and amid increasing COVID-19 numbers for positive cases, City Council decided to approve an emergency order allowing for citations to be issued to individuals not wearing facial coverings while in the city. That order came on Wednesday, one day after their Tuesday night council meeting.

"We’re mobilizing our resources to enhance enforcement beginning on Saturday morning," said George Gabriel, senior management analyst with the city. "Currently, it is primarily reactive enforcement. Once resources are mobilized, it will be more proactive and emphasis will be placed on areas where more congregation occurs."

In the emergency order, City Manager Bruce Moe was given the authority to hire additional code enforcement staff on a part-time or contract basis. The Manhattan Beach Police Department will oversee the enforcement efforts.

Individuals without a mask on [few exceptions apply] will receive an administrative citation of $100 for the first violation, $200 for the second violation, and $350 for each subsequent violation.

The order says "All persons shall wear a cloth face covering over both the nose and mouthwhenever they leave their place of residence, except for:

• A. Persons younger than two years old;
• B. Persons with a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability that prevents wearing a face covering;
• C. Persons who are hearing impaired, or communicating with a person who is hearing impaired, where the ability to see the mouth is essential for communication; and
• D. Persons who are swimming or engaged in other water-based activities."

The order also includes a provision for people eating at restaurants: "Persons who are seated at a restaurant or other establishment that offers food or beverage service shall wear a cloth face covering over both the nose and mouth, unless they are eating or drinking."

PREVIOUSLY: Emergency Order Says Manhattan Beach Can Fine Non Mask Wearers