Des Plaines, Park Ridge to require masks in public

The neighboring Northwest suburbs of Des Plaines and Park Ridge will soon begin enforcing new requirements for people to wear masks or other face coverings while in public during the remainder of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The two cities' policies are largely the same except that Des Plaines' will take effect at 12:01 a.m. Friday, April 24, and Park Ridge's at 8 a.m. Saturday, April 25.

In both communities, people will be expected to wear masks or homemade face coverings when working in or patronizing essential businesses and services, including grocery shopping, medical visits or using public transportation.

Exceptions include engaging in outdoor activities when practicing social distancing of at least 6 feet, traveling in a personal vehicle or being alone with household members in a space not accessible to the public.

Eating and drinking without a mask are also permitted.

Des Plaines will post a Q&A on the new regulations on its website at desplaines.org.