For Performers
All performers will be expected to follow CDC, Massachusetts, and Salem Board of Health public health requirements or recommendations related to COVID-19. Any further protocol will be communicated upon acceptance.
Answers and Links for Frequently Asked Questions
Note: Local orders supersede state orders.
ADA compliance when somebody claims they can’t wear a mask because of a health issue
Salem Mask Order, general requirements:
· All persons who are not exempt, as set forth below, shall wear a facial covering over their mouth and nose when in public between the hours of 8:00 AM and 1:00 AM within the boundaries of the City of Salem downtown B-5 District and on Derby Street from Hawthorne Boulevard to Blaney Street.
· All persons entering any City owned park or playground, including but not limited to, Salem Willows, Winter Island and Forest River Park, must wear a facial covering over their mouth and nose.
· A mobile-friendly map to the Downtown B5 District and all City owned parks can be found here.
Salem Mask Order, guidance for children under 2: Children under the age of 2 years old are not required to wear face coverings. For children 2 years of age or older, a face covering should be used if possible and at the discretion of the child’s parent or guardian. Parents who elect to fit their children with a face covering should be certain it does not obstruct or impede a child’s ability to breathe.
Massachusetts Mask Guidelines, as they pertain to children: Children under the age of 2 should not wear face coverings or masks. Face covering use by children 2 years of age and up to the age of 5 are encouraged but should be at the discretion of the child’s parent or guardian at this time. Parents and guardians should ensure that the mask fits snugly and does not obstruct a child’s ability to breathe.
Massachusetts Mask Guidelines, general: Effective April 30, 2021, people are required to wear masks or face-coverings in indoor public places and outdoors when they are unable to maintain 6 feet from other people. Face coverings will still be required at all times in indoor public places. Face coverings will also continue to be required at all times at events, whether held indoors or outdoors and whether held in a public space or private home, except for when eating or drinking. At smaller gatherings in private homes, face coverings are recommended but not required.
Capacity limits and distancing effective on August 1: Subject to public health and vaccination data, remaining industries will be permitted to open. All industry restrictions will be lifted at that time, and capacity will increase to 100% for all industries, with businesses encouraged to continue following best practices. The gathering limit will be rescinded. Depending on vaccine distribution and public health data, the Administration may consider re-evaluating the August 1 date.
Salem Board of Health Updates: At their April 13, 2021 meeting, the Salem Board of Health rescinded the order issued on November 20, 2020 that requires all establishments to provide a local contact tracing form to all patrons and staff. The Board of Health also removed the following requirements:
· Limits to the number of people in essential retail business to maintain social distance
· Designate an employee to insure occupancy and social distance
· Close non-essential parts of the business
· Prohibit reusable shopping bags
· Prohibit use of ice cream trucks
The Salem Board of Health will review existing public health orders at their May 11 meeting. Feedback can be submitted to the Board of Health via email at health@salem.com.
More information on masking can be found online, including information about fake exemption cards, masking with asthma (you can wear one), reasonable modifications, health exemptions, and children under 2 should not wear a mask.