The Latest Lafayette County COVID-19 Guidelines October 23, 2020

As our state continues to take steps to reopen, it can be difficult to keep up with the changing COVID-19 safety ordinances, especially when local and statewide precautions differ. To help, we have put together a rundown of the latest guidelines that apply to residents and visitors in Lafayette County. 

These guidelines are subject to change, especially as the number of cases in our county and across the state increase or decrease. At the same time, it is important to keep in mind that although some guidelines have loosened, the coronavirus pandemic is not over. We should continue to take precautions to protect ourselves, our families and our community. 

Statewide Guidelines:  

  • Home isolation remains mandatory if you have tested positive for COVID-19. If you are awaiting the results of a COVID-19 test, you should quarantine at home.
  • In Mississippi, Gov. Tate Reeves has let the statewide mask mandate expire, although masks are still required in schools and in some businesses where close contact is necessary, including barbershops and tattoo parlors. Although wearing a mask is not mandatory at other locations, it is still strongly recommended at all gatherings.
  • At the same time, the governor has increased the gathering limits that were previously in place. Group gatherings where people are unable to socially distance are limited to no more than 20 indoors and 100 outdoors.

Lafayette County Guidelines (Outside Oxford City Limits): 

  • Lafayette County continues to follow the statewide guidelines set forth by Gov. Reeves.

Lafayette County Guidelines (Inside Oxford City Limits): 

  • Some of the guidelines within Oxford city limits differ slightly from Gov. Reeves’ updated mandate. Residents and visitors are still required to wear masks in all indoor public spaces.
  • Residents and visitors are required to wear a mask outdoors when they are not able to maintain social distance. This includes when waiting in line for a table at a restaurant or in line at a concession stand.
  • Within Oxford city limits, indoor gatherings are limited to 10 people, while outdoor gatherings are limited to 25 people (with or without social distancing).
  • Businesses can open to 75% capacity. Restaurants can operate at 75% capacity with a 10-person maximum per table and an 11 p.m. closing time Monday through Saturday. Movie theaters can now operate at 50% capacity.
  • The full list of Oxford guidelines is available here.