Masks must be worn in enclosed areas at Highmark Stadium regardless of vaccination status

The Erie County Department of Health has issued mask guidance for this weekend’s Billy Joel concert. The Buffalo Bills’ first home game isn’t until the preseason finale on August 28th and the restrictions could remain in place until that game and potentially beyond into the regular season.

“Masks are required regardless of vaccination status for concourses, indoor areas, and other enclosed spaces at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park for the Billy Joel concert on Saturday, August 14.”

Erie County has been labeled as having “substantial community spread” by the CDC, which is why the escalation is required in the mark mandate. If they were below the “substantial” threshold, it would only be required of unvaccinated people.

Staff, vendors, and concertgoers will all need to follow the regulations. Highmark Stadium has yet to release any details relating to consequences for unmasked individuals.

What remains to be seen is how this is going to alter the Bills’ day-to-day operations. It’s a county-owned facility, so the mask mandate likely applies to all indoor events from team meetings to getting changed in the locker room and beyond. We’ll update with that info if we hear.