Somerville Will Relax Outdoor Face Covering Rules

SOMERVILLE, MA — The city of Somerville will join the rest of the state in relaxing outdoor face covering guidelines Friday, April 30. Residents will no longer have to wear a face covering if they can socially distance while outdoors.

Masks will still be required in public indoor spaces, outdoor spaces where social distancing is not possible, at large events and at any city-permitted activities, including outdoor fitness and yoga classes. Face coverings are recommended at smaller gatherings in private homes but are not required.

Due to the population density of Somerville, residents are advised to bring a face covering when they go out in case spaces like the Community Path and parks get crowded.

"Throughout the pandemic we have followed the science and monitored local and state data so we are able to adjust our policies accordingly," Doug Kress, director of Health and Human Services, said. "We now know that outdoor transmission, especially when people can socially distance, is very low. But we do still need to be vigilant and remember to mask up when we can't distance from others or when we're indoors."