Starting July 1st, France will implement a new ban on smoking in outdoor public areas where children are likely to be present, including beaches, parks, and bus stops. The announcement was made by Health and Family Minister Catherine Vautrin in an interview published Thursday, May 29th.
“Tobacco must disappear where there are children,” Vautrin declared, emphasizing the government’s intention to protect minors from exposure to second-hand smoke. “The freedom to smoke stops where children’s right to breathe clean air starts,” she added.
The measure will apply to a broad range of spaces, including “beaches, parks, public gardens, outside of schools, bus stops and sports venues,” as outlined by the minister. Offenders could face fines of up to €135.
While the new restrictions are extensive, Vautrin clarified that cafe terraces will be excluded, and the ban will not apply to electronic cigarettes.
The move comes amid growing public support for smoke-free environments. According to a recent opinion survey, 62% of French citizens support banning smoking in public places.
