§ 26-3. Wearing masks in public.

(a)

Definitions. For the purpose of this section, the following definitions shall apply, unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning:

Mask means any mask, device, hood or face make-up whereby any portion of the face is so hidden or covered as to conceal the identity of the wearer or user.

Public place means any street, highway, alley, sidewalk, walk, lane, boulevard or other place dedicated to public use or owned or maintained by public authority, and any ground or building owned, leased, maintained or operated by public authority.

(b)

Prohibition; exceptions. It shall be unlawful for any person to appear on or in any public place in the city while masked or when any portion of the face is concealed or distorted by using any type of face make-up, except as follows:

(1)

Children under the age of 12 years.

(2)

Workers engaged in work wherein a covering is worn for physical safety and protection against occupational hazards, or because of the nature of the occupation, trade or profession.

(3)

Persons engaged in theatrical productions or masquerade balls.

(4)

Persons wearing gas masks prescribed in civil defense drills and exercises, or by authorized persons in emergencies.

(c)

Violations by minors. It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly permit his minor child or ward to violate the provisions of this section.

(Code 1985, § 130.19)

State law reference

Regulating the wearing of masks or hoods, prohibiting secret societies, G.S. 14-12.7—14-12.11.