New laws allowing New South Wales police to demand the removal of face coverings for identification will be extended to prison and court officials.

The State Government has confirmed details of its changes to the Law Enforcement Act, to allow officials to demand the removal of any face covering, including helmets, masks and religious veils, for the purpose of making a clear identification.

Those who refuse will face penalties ranging from a $220 fine to 12 months in jail.

The change was prompted by the case of Carnita Matthews, a Sydney woman who won her appeal against a jail sentence for falsely accusing a policeman of trying to forcibly remove her burka.

In quashing a six-month sentence for Ms Matthews in June, the magistrate said he was unable to confirm whether Ms Matthews had made the accusation as police had been unable to see the face of the woman who made the complaint.

Premier Barry O'Farrell says it soon became clear the powers were not just needed by police.

"Our message to people is clear. When asked to provide proper identification, comply with the request to remove any face covering or face tough penalties," Mr O'Farrell said.

"It's important in courts that identification be proven. it's important in juvenile detention centres and prisons that when people are visiting that their identification is established.

"This is about putting in place sensible and appropriate powers for Government officials, whether police, whether court officials, whether correction facility officers."

Previously police only had the power to demand the removal of face coverings during the investigation of serious offences.