Powers to remove face coverings being considered for Stoke-on-Trent
The so-called 'balaclava ban' would apply to coverings linked to anti-social behaviour and crime.
Powers requiring people to remove face coverings used to intimidate others or commit crime could be extended across Stoke-on-Trent.
Stoke-on-Trent City Council is planning to review how it works with police on anti-social behaviour, to make sure all relevant powers are being used effectively in all parts of the city.
It is considering extending powers to require the removal of face coverings where they are being used to intimidate, conceal identity or commit a crime or anti-social behaviour.
The council says the new powers would not be a blanket ban on face coverings.
It says religious face coverings, coverings worn to protect against the cold, and helmets worn for safety would not be affected.
What powers already exist
Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) are already in place in Hanley and Longton.
They prohibit conduct that 'causes or is likely to cause harassment, alarm and distress', which the council says can include the use of face coverings.
The council says its review follows similar action by other councils, which have included specific references to face coverings in their PSPOs.
These include Community Protection Warnings and Community Protection Notices, which can put specific requirements on an individual where their conduct is having a negative effect on the quality of life in a community.
Criminal Behaviour Orders, available following a criminal conviction, can also be used to place specific prohibitions on an individual.
Police dispersal powers allow officers to clear areas of people causing anti-social behaviour for 24 hours, which can be extended for a further 24 hours.
The council says police also have specific powers to create "mask-free zones" around protests.
What the council says
Councillor Duncan Walker, Cabinet Member for Safe and Resilient Communities and Housing at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: "This review is part of coordinated efforts by the city council and Staffordshire Police to create a more welcoming, family-friendly city."
He also said: "It is not acceptable that anyone living in or visiting Stoke-on-Trent feels intimidated, frightened or unsafe. This is why we need to ensure that the appropriate powers are in place when it comes to dealing with anti-social behaviour and face coverings."
Councillor Walker added: "Everyone has the right to feel safe in our city and we are committed to working with trusted partners like the Police to make sure that is the case."
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