Several businesses, mostly restaurants and bars, still require masks after the City of Sebastian lifted its mask mandate.
The city’s mandate became irrelevant because of an executive order by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis after reopening Florida to Phase 3 and therefore was never enforceable.
On Nov. 18, 2020, the Sebastian City Council decided to lift the mask ordinance and allow business owners to decide if they would require masks to be worn in their business.
“It’s like when you go into a store it says ‘No Shirt, No Shoes, No Service.’ If that business wants to add on ‘No Mask, No Service,’ I am in agreement with that,” Councilman Bob McPartland said.
However, the City of Sebastian still recommends face masks to be worn by citizens and employees at businesses, although not enforceable.
Employees at Capt. Hirams Resort, Crab E Bills, Woody’s BBQ, Wabasi Thai Sushi, Chubby Mullet, Village Tavern, Pareidolia Brewing Company, Sandy’s Grille, and Capt’n Butchers have policies to follow and must wear a face mask. Many residents favor these policies amid the Global Pandemic and believe it will help stop the spread of COVID-19.
Tiki Bar & Grill and Earl’s Hideaway Lounge are giving employees a choice on whether to wear a face mask or not.
Many customers have decided not to visit establishments unless employees wear masks. But many others believe the masks do not work.