Sterling Costco Shoppers Must Wear Mask Starting May 4

STERLING, VA — Costco shoppers will soon need to wear a mask or face covering to enter its U.S. warehouse locations, including at its location in Sterling, the company announced Wednesday.

The new policy goes into effect Monday, May 4. The requirement doesn't apply to children under the age of two or anyone who's unable to wear a mask due to a medical condition, said the company.

"The use of a mask or face covering should not be seen as a substitute for social distancing. Please continue to observe rules regarding appropriate distancing while on Costco premises. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation," the company said in a statement.

Costco has a Sterling location at 21398 Price Cascades Plaza.

Normal operating hours will start back for most locations on Monday. Customers can check with their store to see if they are resuming normal hours.

Senior hours for customers age 60 and up will continue Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Frontline workers will still have priority hours.