Fort Myers beaches open for the upcoming holiday weekend but masks required
Residents and visitors are also reminded that fireworks are illegal in the Town
Due to increased spread of COVID-19 across the state of Florida and in light of the anticipated crowds for the upcoming holiday, Town Council held a special meeting on July 1 to discuss the additional actions taken by other governments throughout south Florida and measures to protect the health and safety of residents and visitors.
The Town Council issued an emergency declaration relating to the COVID-19 pandemic that requires residents and visitors to wear face coverings or masks when in public. Until further notice, everyone six years of age or older is required to have available and wear a face covering or mask when social distancing of six feet cannot be adhered to within the Town limits, with very few exceptions such as those with medical conditions. Section three of the attached declaration lists the few exceptions.
One of the Town Councilor’s stated that this would help businesses to encourage their patrons to wear COVID-19 face protection as the Town is now requiring masks when in congested areas. Other Councilors expressed that these methods of protection help limit the spread of COVID-19.
In approving this action with a three to two vote, Town Council set the following:
- Social distancing is required, or;
- Masks are required while outdoors in any public area anywhere with appropriate social distancing of six or more feet between individuals who do not reside together, including but without limitation, at the beach, on the shared use path, or public parks and facilities.
- Failure to comply with this emergency order carries a fine of $50 per individual or $500 per establishment per incident.
On another topic, Town Council reminded everyone that fireworks are illegal everywhere and at all times on the beach and throughout the Town even though the state of Florida’s rules are more lax. Read the Town’s ordinance about fireworks. Fireworks are harmful to the large variety of natural resources in the beach environment in addition to being fire hazards.
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