Smoking Ban in Workplaces and Public Places
Effective July 24, 2003, the amended New York State Clean Indoor Air Act (CIAA, Public Health Law, Article 13-E) prohibits smoking in virtually all workplaces, including restaurants and bars. The changes in the Act reflect the state's commitment to ensuring that all workers are protected from secondhand smoke. Localities may continue to adopt and enforce local laws regulating smoking. However, these regulations must be at least as strict as the Clean Indoor Air Act.
Where is Smoking Prohibited?
The CIAA states that smoking shall not be permitted and that no person shall smoke in the following indoor areas:
- Places of employment
- Bars
- Restaurants
- Enclosed indoor swimming areas
- Public transportation, including all ticketing, boarding and waiting areas; buses, vans, taxicabs and limousines
- All places of employment where services are offered to children
- All schools, including school grounds
- All public and private colleges, universities and other educational and vocational institutions
- General hospitals
- Residential health-care facilities, except separately designated smoking rooms for adult patients
- Commercial establishments used for the purpose of carrying on or exercising any trade, profession, vocation or charitable activity
- All indoor arenas
- Zoos
- Bingo facilities
What are the Penalties?
The Clinton County Health Department can assess penalties in accordance with the NYS Sanitary Code.
Revised 01/04/24
