CORTLAND, Ohio - A sign that hangs on the door of Top Notch Diner in Cortland says, "We will NOT force any mask/facial coverings at our establishment."

This would be in direct contrast to a July Ohio health department order that says "all individuals in the State of Ohio shall wear facial coverings at all times when in any indoor location that is not a residence."

The owner of the restaurant says they are very well aware they're in violation of this order.

"My sign says I will not force anyone to wear a mask, and I will not force anyone to wear a mask," said owner Shonna Bland. "If you want to wear a mask, that's fine."

The restaurant's position has gotten mixed reactions on social media.

Carl Cook of Howland was among those who support the diner and was there on Friday. 

"That's refreshing because I think this is being oversold; it's like any other flu virus just with publicity. What's the difference," Cook said. 

Bland argues the health order requiring people to wear masks while in public is not technically a law.

"It's been decriminalized. There's no fees. There's no fines. There's nothing," Bland said. 

And to a point, the Trumbull County Health Department said she is correct.

It's not the business owner's job to enforce masks. That falls on the health department and law enforcement. But the health department said they alone do not have the authority to penalize businesses and people. Instead, they need the assistance of the police and courts.

So far, Trumbull County's Health Department said they've had 32 complaints against Top Notch. That's the most in the county.

Still, the business has not been penalized. The health department said they hope "soon" grant money will help them hire investigators with more authority. In the meantime, they are documenting a "paper trail" of complaints.

"I'd pay the fine and go on about my day. And if they fine me again, I'd pay that one and go about my day," Bland said.