West Columbia to require face coverings

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The City of West Columbia has passed an ordinance requiring face coverings in public places including grocery stores, hair salons, medical offices, city buildings and other commercial establishments providing goods or services.

The ordinance goes into effect at 6 a.m. on Friday and also requires businesses where masks must be worn to place a notice in a conspicuous place. The ordinance will be in effect for 61 days, and violations will result in a fine of not more than $25, according to a news release from the city.

Employees of food service and retail establishments within city limits also must require employees to wear a face covering.

Exceptions will be made for those with underlying health conditions, under 10 years of age, in private offices or engaging athletic activities. Establishments with the ability to isolate customers from employees and to maintain social distancing of at least six feet may submit a written request to the city for a waiver of the face covering requirement. Copies of waiver forms will be available online at www.westcolumbiasc.gov.

Violations can be reported to the West Columbia hotline at 803-939-8627.