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Mask violations may have consequences

We understand there are diverging views in our community regarding mask usage. Anyone who finds it humorous to tell someone asking them to wear a mask that they have COVID and cough (or pretend to cough on someone else) may be found in violation of Disorderly Conduct under the City of Fargo Municipal Code 10-0301.

10/23/2020

We understand there are diverging views in our community regarding mask usage. However, on Monday, Fargo Mayor Dr. Tim Mahoney issued a mask mandate requiring people within the Fargo community to wear a mask in all indoor environments (where they are exposed to non-household members and where social distancing of six feet or more cannot be assured) and in all outdoor settings where there is exposure to non-household members, unless there exists ample space of six feet or more to practice social distancing. These measure are being mandated with the strongest possible recommendation; there is no penalty for non-compliance with this mandate.

Anyone who finds it humorous to tell someone asking them to wear a mask that they have COVID and cough (or pretend to cough on someone else) may be found in violation of Disorderly Conduct under the City of Fargo Municipal Code 10-0301. Disorderly conduct is defined as: a person is guilty of disorderly conduct if, with intent to harass, annoy, or alarm another person or in reckless disregard of the fact that another person is harassed, annoyed, or alarmed by his behavior, he: (8) creates a hazardous, physically offensive, or seriously alarming condition by any act which serves no legitimate purpose or (9) engages in harassing conduct by means of intrusive or unwanted acts, words, or gestures that are intended to adversely affect the safety, security, or privacy of another person.

A violation of this ordinance is a Class B Misdemeanor and carries a $500 fine.

Officers will continue to use reasonable police discretion and enforcement when appropriate.

We are asking members of our community (and those who come for work or pleasure) to be mindful and respectful of the businesses in our community and those working in them by wearing a mask.