Politics & Government

Alameda Smoking Ordinance Takes Effect Jan. 2

It will be illegal to smoke in most public outdoor spaces

NOTICE FROM THE CITY OF ALAMEDA                                                             

On Jan. 2, 2012, Alameda's new secondhand smoke ordinance goes into effect. 

The bottom line: smoking is prohibited in public spaces. 

Find out what's happening in Alamedawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Under the new ordinance smoking is prohibited in all outdoor public places, including dining areas, recreation areas, service areas (bus stops, ATMs, etc.), shopping malls, outdoor events, commercial-area sidewalks, and within 20 feet of any enclosed area where smoking is prohibited. 

Smoking is also prohibited in all indoor and outdoor areas of employment including owner operated businesses open to the public and all vehicles used as a worksite (taxis, tractors, trucks, etc.). 

Find out what's happening in Alamedawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Because the dangers of secondhand smoke cannot be controlled by ventilation, air cleaning, or the separation of smokers from non-smokers, the ordinance will provide protections for multi-unit residences.

  • Smoking is prohibited in 100% of new multi-unit rental and common interest complexes, including balconies and porches.
  • Designated smoking areas may be established in outdoor common areas of multi-unit rental and common interest complexes.
  • Smoking is prohibited within 20 feet of enclosed areas (smoking buffer zones).

Additional restrictions for multi-unit housing will take effect in January of 2013.

 “This is a significant step in protecting the public from the health dangers of secondhand smoke,” said Mayor Marie Gilmore. “That’s why we directed staff to prepare an A+ ordinance. The public needs to be protected.”

A summary of the ordinance can be read here with downloadable NO SMOKING signs in English, Spanish and Chinese.


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