France bans smoking in beaches, parks and bus shelters

Beginning in July, France will implement a sweeping ban on smoking in various public outdoor spaces, including beaches, public parks, bus shelters, and areas surrounding schools, libraries, and swimming pools.

The measure is part of a broader government campaign to reduce tobacco use and promote a healthier public environment, particularly for children.

French Health Minister Catherine Vautrin, who announced the new policy earlier this year, emphasized the importance of shielding minors from secondhand smoke.

“Wherever there are children, smoking must disappear,” she stated, expressing confidence that France could achieve a “smoke-free generation” if the country acts decisively now.

The new regulation, which has been officially published in the government’s legal gazette, will not yet apply to café terraces and bar patios. However, Minister Vautrin suggested that these areas may be included in future phases of the anti-smoking initiative.

Although electronic cigarettes are currently exempt from the ban, the government plans to introduce tighter controls on their nicotine levels and flavourings by mid-2026.

Local authorities across France will be responsible for enforcing the ban. Smokers found violating the new rules could be fined €135, according to the French Council of State, which is finalizing the legal details of the framework.

This measure is one of 26 included in a larger anti-smoking strategy unveiled in November 2023. The strategy also includes proposals to raise tobacco prices, introduce plain packaging for cigarette products, and impose stricter regulations on the sale and composition of vaping devices.

Public support for tougher tobacco control appears strong. A survey conducted by the Ligue contre le cancer revealed that nearly 80% of French citizens support banning smoking in public places, while 83% favour increased regulation of e-cigarettes.

These figures reflect a broad national consensus on the urgency of tackling tobacco-related health issues, with nearly 75,000 tobacco-related deaths recorded annually in France.

Source: LIB