As our community responds to COVID-19, our staff are monitoring the situation and working to bring you information and resources. Please watch this page for news updates and emerging resources.

(Update September 2, 2021)
COVID-19 infection rates are on the rise. We all must do our part to keep our community safe.
Masks Required: Buncombe County has reinstated a COVID state of emergency through 9/30/21. Masks are required in all indoor public spaces for anyone 5 years old and up. Public spaces include: business establishments, offices and workplaces, public transportation facilities and vehicles, and any indoor place the public is invited and allowed to enter and gather. The mask requirement currently extends throughout unincorporated Buncombe County as well as the municipal limits of the City of Asheville, the Town of Montreat, the Town of Woodfin, and the Town of Weaverville. Read the order
*Download “mask required” signs below under Business Resources.
What you can do:
  • See Business Resources below for more information and tools such as signage to communicate with employees and customers.
  • Get vaccinated. It’s easy, safe and effective. About 60% of the total population in Buncombe County is fully vaccinated. Encourage your friends, family and employees to get vaccinated. Anyone 12 and older can get vaccinated, no appointment necessary!
  • Wear a mask – even if you are vaccinated. Masks required in indoor public spaces through most of Buncombe County. CDC says: “To maximize protection from the Delta variant and prevent possibly spreading it to others, wear a mask indoors in public if you are in an area of substantial or high transmission.” Buncombe County has a high rate of transmission.
  • Wash hands frequently and use hand sanitizer.
  • Review the Interim General Guidance for Businesses and Organizations (NCDHHS, 5/20/21) – includes resources for communicating with employees and counteracting misinformation.