The Halton Region has updated its by-laws regarding smoking and vaping in public spaces.
It passed a by-law prohibiting smoking tobacco or cannabis and vaping in public parks and within nine metres from any entrance or exit of municipally owned or leased buildings and child care centres.
By-Law No. 40-20 specifically prohibits smoking tobacco or cannabis and using electronic cigarettes:
- in public parks;
- within nine metres from any entrance or exit of municipally owned or leased buildings; and
- within nine metres from any entrance or exit of child care centres.
“The by-law ensures we are helping protect our community from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke and vapour,” says Halton Region’s Medical Officer of Health Dr. Hamidah Meghani. “The by-law also supports those who are trying to quit smoking and vaping and reduces social exposure to smoking and vaping, especially among youth.”
Municipally owned or leased buildings include municipal offices, community centres, libraries, arenas, museums, public washrooms, recreational centres, police stations, fire halls and ambulance stations. Signage will be placed in all of these locations.
“Our top priority is the health and safety of our residents and our Public Health Inspectors will continue to educate the public about the by-law and respond to issues of non-compliance,” says Halton Regional Chair Gary Carr.
The by-law came into effect on Monday, March 15th.
