The City of Rehoboth Beach Board of Commissioners voted to loosen outdoor mask-wearing requirements.
The commissioners rescinded the city’s requirement to wear masks in all public areas at all times. Instead, they made masks mandatory in outdoor spaces only when social distancing between households is not possible.
The guidelines follow the State of Delaware’s current requirements regarding face coverings.
Also, following the State of Delaware’s state of emergency, masks still are necessary on the boardwalk, and face coverings continue to be required in all indoor public settings.
The city struggled with the issue at times, as mask-wearing became a political matter for some visitors.
Guidance has changed late after it was found that Covid-19 spread is much less likely in non-crowded public settings.
Also, fully vaccinated those face few risks in the company of others who have also gotten both shots. A small percentage of people have also received the one-dose Johnson & Johnson/Janssen vaccine.
The commissioners may consider further changes, depending on new guidelines from the state.
In addition, commissioners voted to extend the use of public sidewalks and private outdoor spaces for dining, merchandise racks, and other business purposes at the end of October. The exact termination date may be modified if necessary for large, annual special events, such as Seawitch.
