USC to require masks at football games at Williams-Brice

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Mask will now be required at University of South Carolina football games, at least for the next two home contests.

The school sent a note to fans Wednesday afternoon confirming that the stadium falls under the City of Columbia’s mask mandate, passed one week ago. The stadium is within city limits. 

The ordinance requires face coverings in “crowded outdoor spaces” such as Williams-Brice and any other space where social distancing is impossible. 

The University said that the City of Columbia is solely responsible for enforcing the mandate, which includes a $100 fine for violators. 

RELATED: City of Columbia passes mask mandate citywide

The ordinance is in effect for 30 days, which means it would expire on October 8. That time frame means two home games–the Sept. 25 contest against Kentucky and the October 2 matchup against Troy–would be under the ordinance. 

But it could be more. The city has the option to extend that ordinance beyond that date if COVID-19 cases don’t go down. 

RELATED: Richland County face mask mandate effective Wednesday, Sept. 15

The ordinance also states that persons entering a commercial establishment or establishment open to the public in the city must wear a face covering while inside, unless eating or drinking. 

Face coverings are not required in the following circumstances:  

In personal vehicles.When a person is alone in enclosed spaces; during outdoor physical activity, provided the active person maintains a minimum of six (6) feet from other people at all times.When a person is alone or only with other household members.While drinking, eating or smoking.When wearing a face covering causes or aggravates a health condition.When wearing a face covering would prevent the receipt of personal services.When a person is five (5) years of age or younger.