The Stockton City Council has approved an ordinance regulating the use of facial coverings when they are used to conceal a person’s identity in ways that provoke fear, intimidation, threats, or violence.
The measure, approved by the council this week, will take effect in 30 days and will be enforced by the Stockton Police Department, the council said.
The ordinance includes exemptions for religious practices, medical needs, workplace safety, cultural activities, and other lawful uses, according to city officials.
Vice Mayor Jason Lee, who introduced the proposal after months of research and community discussions, said the measure aims to improve public safety while protecting individual rights.
“Our commitment remains the same: creating a safer Stockton for families, businesses, students, and every resident who deserves to feel secure in our community,” Vice Mayor Lee said. “This is meaningful progress, but there is more work ahead. Public safety requires consistency, collaboration, and a willingness to keep building solutions.”