Czech Republic face mask FAQ: Where you'll need to wear a mask from September 1

Updated August 27, 2020.

After last week’s announcement that face mask requirements would go back into effect throughout the Czech Republic from September 1, health officials provided full details on where face masks will need to be worn during a press conference before ultimately backtracking on those details, creating additional confusion about where a mask will need to be worn from September 1.

But after official confirmation from the Czech Health Ministry on where face masks will need to be worn from September 1, we’ve updated the below FAQ to reflect the latest information.

Note that a medical face mask is not required. A scarf, handmade mask, or other form of nose and mouth covering is acceptable.  

Do I need to wear a mask outdoors?
NO. The new regulations only concern the use of face masks in indoor locations.

Do I need to wear a face mask at the post office?
YES. Face masks will be required at public offices including post offices.

Do I need to wear a mask when going to the doctor?
YES. Current regulations specify a mask is needed when going to health facilities including doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies, and the requirement will continue after September 1.

Do I need a face mask when visiting a hairdresser or beauty salon?
NO. Contrary to previous reports, masks will not need to be worn by staff or guests at hair salons or other service providers.

What about the requirement to wear a mask in public transport?
YES. Under current regulations, face masks are required in the Prague metro; from September 1, that will be extended to all public transport vehicles in the Czech Republic.

Do I have to wear a mask when traveling on other mass transport?
YES. Masks are also required on intercity buses, trains, and other forms of mass transport in the Czech Republic, as well as in taxi services.

Do I need to wear a mask at the airport?
YES. Masks need to be worn both at Václav Havel Airport Prague and railway stations in the Czech capital.

What about face masks when attending indoor cultural events?
YES*. Masks will be mandatory when visiting a cinema, theater or other cultural events at indoor locations, but only if the number of participants exceeds 100 people. At events with less than 100 people, no mask will be required.

Do I need a mask when visiting a town hall?
YES. Face masks will be required at public offices.

Do I need to wear a mask in shopping malls?
NO. Contrary to previous reports, masks will not be necessary either at individual shops or shopping centers.

Do young children need to wear face masks?
NO. The requirement does not apply to children under two years of age. Exceptions are also made for people with developmental disabilities and other groups.

Do public transport drivers need to wear a mask?
NO. Masks may only be required when in direct contact with a passenger.

What about face masks in restaurants, cafes, and food courts?
NO. Contrary to previous reports, masks will not need to be worn at food and drink facilities.

Are masks required for the bride and groom at weddings?
NO. Newlyweds do not need to wear a face mask during the marriage ceremony.

What about when taking pictures of the newlyweds?
NO. Face masks are not required when photographing the newlyweds, including joint photos.

Are face masks required at the gym?
NO. In general, there is no requirement to wear a face mask while exercising or playing sports indoors.

What about the swimming pool?
NO. Masks are not required at public swimming pools. The same goes for saunas.

Do I need to wear a mask at school?
NO. Masks are not required to be worn in individual classes, and contrary to previous reports, masks will not be mandatory in common areas of schools, either. Due to the worsening situation in Prague, however, Czech Health Minister Adam Vojtěch has issued a recommendation to school principals in the capital to make masks mandatory.

Are masks required at court trials?
YES*. Members of the public present at court cases need to wear a mask. Judges, participants, witnesses, experts, and interpreters at trials are exempt, however.

Do I need to wear a face mask at work?
NO. A mask is not required at private offices with no public access. However, individual employers may choose to require a face mask.

Is there another situation where you’re unsure if you need to wear a face mask? Let us know in the comments below or through our Facebook page and we’ll attempt to find the answer.