The city of Tempe will end its face covering requirement in most public spaces starting Friday.

With the exception of public transportation and the Tempe Municipal Court, face coverings will be considered optional. Tempe businesses and schools can decide on their own whether to keep a mandate. 

Tempe Mayor Corey Woods rescinded the city’s June 2020 mask mandate following new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance issued last week. The city is still encouraging mask wearing for the unvaccinated and to protect those who remain vulnerable.

The Phoenix City Council is set to meet Wednesday and may make a similar move to end its mask mandate.