In times of change, where regulations are constantly evolving depending on the situation of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to know which regulations are currently in force and when the use of face masks is mandatory.

FACE MASKS IN OUTDOOR SPACES

Since July 26, 2021, as a preventive and hygiene measure, wearing a face mask is no longer mandatory in open-air or outdoor spaces. However, this is not quite as straightforward as it may seem.

Face masks are only mandatory for people aged 6 and over, and it is important to know in which situations or circumstances they are still required. Below, we briefly explain when and where you must wear one.

Indoor spaces

Face masks must be worn in any enclosed space that is open to the public or intended for public use.

Outdoor spaces

Face masks must be worn in any outdoor space where a minimum distance of 1.5 metres between people cannot be maintained (except for groups of people living together), or where the number of people gathered makes it impossible to maintain this distance.

Means of transport

Face masks are required on air, sea, bus, and rail transport.

This also includes platforms, passenger stations, and cable cars.

They are also mandatory on public transport and complementary private passenger transport services in vehicles of up to nine seats (including the driver), provided that the occupants of private vehicles do not live together.

On ships and boats, passengers are not required to wear face masks while inside their cabins or in outdoor areas where the minimum safety distance can be guaranteed.

Outdoor mass events

Face masks are mandatory when attendees are standing or, if seated, when a distance of 1.5 metres between people cannot be maintained, except for groups of people living together.

EXCEPTIONS TO THE MANDATORY USE OF FACE MASKS

Not everyone is required to wear a face mask in certain situations. In addition to children under 6 years old, there are several groups of people who are exempt from wearing them.

These include:

• People with illnesses or respiratory conditions that may be affected or worsened by wearing a face mask.

• People with disabilities or reduced abilities who have a lack of autonomy that prevents them from putting on or removing a face mask.

• People with behavioural disorders that make wearing a face mask difficult.

There are also certain situations or activities where exceptions may apply:

• Activities where the nature of the activity is incompatible with wearing a face mask, whether indoors or outdoors. However, it is essential to follow the guidance provided by the health authorities of the autonomous community where the activity takes place.

• Enclosed public spaces that are residential facilities, such as centres for people with functional diversity or elderly care facilities.

For further information, we recommend consulting Royal Decree-Law 13/2021 of June 24, which modifies Law 2/2021 of March 29, regarding urgent prevention, containment, and coordination measures to address the health crisis caused by COVID-19, as well as Royal Decree-Law 26/2020 of July 7, regarding economic recovery measures to address the impact of COVID-19 in the areas of transport and housing.