Overview
- The restriction came into effect on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, giving authorised police and council officers power to order removal of face coverings used to hide identity for criminal or anti‑social acts.
- Offenders can be issued a £70 on‑the‑spot fine, have coverings confiscated, and be referred into an immediate‑justice programme with compulsory community work for some cases.
- Exemptions cover religious, health, medical and work reasons and authorities say body‑worn video and targeted application will guide officers to avoid a blanket ban.
- The council cited more than 180 Nottingham city‑centre incidents involving face coverings between June 2025 and June 2026 and a public consultation of over 2,200 people with more than 90% in favour as the basis for the measure.
- Persistent breaches can lead to criminal behaviour orders and indefinite city‑centre bans, and officials pointed to similar local measures such as Wolverhampton’s 2024 rule while political figures urged broader action.