Falmouth EMA Update on Governor’s Latest Executive Order

On Thursday, November 4, Governor Janet Mills announced a new mask mandate for the state of Maine. This executive order replaces one issued in July. In addition, the order decreases the indoor gathering limits to 50 people. Falmouth Emergency Management encourages all Falmouth residents and visitors to Falmouth to follow this new mandate. Scientific research has consistently shown that mask use can reduce the spread of COVID-19 and may reduce the severity of the illness should someone who wears a mask become infected.

Indoor Settings

The mandate requires that in most places outside of your home or yard, you must wear a mask, regardless of your ability to maintain social distance. This order includes required mask use in any indoor public space outside of your own home and while using any form of public transportation, including taxis or ride-sharing services. Face masks are required for entry into all Town of Falmouth facilities. 

Outdoor Spaces

While the order does not specify every possible outdoor public setting in which a mask is required, it does require masks on public sidewalks, parking lots, playgrounds, athletic and sports settings, and similar public spaces. The order does not indicate if a mask is required in more secluded settings such as on trails or running/walking on rural roads.

Compliance in Retail Establishments

Compliance to the new order is expected to be voluntary. However, retail establishments are required to post visible signs notifying entrants of the requirements and they may deny service to those for non-compliance. According to the order, individuals could be charged with trespassing for failing to wear a mask in a retail establishment. Moreover, businesses failing to enforce these rules could be fined or have actions taken against their operating licenses.

Exemptions

Face coverings are required for all children age 5 and older in public settings, including school and childcare settings, and are recommended for children ages 2 to 4 unless deemed developmentally inappropriate. Exemptions continue to exist for those who have serious medical conditions or who are otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.

Falmouth Parks & Open Space

In compliance with the Governor’s order, the Town of Falmouth will require face masks in public parks and playgrounds (see a complete list below). On Open Space properties and trails, residents and visitors are advised to wear a mask when in the company of or near individuals outside of your own household. 

Falmouth Public Parks/Properties (mask use required)

Walton Park/Presumpscot Falls Park

Graves School Park

Village Park

Town Landing

Underwood Park

Huston School Park

Legion Field

Falmouth Community Park

Mason-Motz Playground and garden walking trails

Reporting Non-Compliance

If you wish to report a potential situation of non-compliance to the guidance relating to COVID-19 and this new order, you may report those details via the online form at https://appengine.egov.com/apps/me/non-compliance. The information will be reviewed by appropriate agency or agencies and responded to as needed.