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France implements smoking ban on beaches and parks

Politiko 2025-06-29 18:02:08

France implements smoking ban on beaches and parks

Anyone lighting up a cigarette on the beach or in a public park in France will be breaking the law from Sunday under new rules aimed at protecting children from the dangers of smoking.

Bus shelters and areas near libraries, swimming pools and schools will also be affected by the order, which comes into effect a day after its publication in the government's official gazette on Saturday.

The rule is being introduced a week before the start of school holidays in France in an attempt to immediately protect children from smoke on the beach.

However, to the disappointment of some anti-smoking activists, the ban does not cover bar and restaurant terraces where many French people still smoke with pleasure.

They are also unhappy that the ban does not apply to e-cigarettes.

The rules were originally expected to come into effect on Tuesday following an earlier announcement by the health ministry, but the publication in the official gazette means this has now been brought forward to Sunday.

People also should not smoke within a 10-meter radius of schools, swimming pools, libraries and other places where smoking could harm minors.

The health ministry said it will soon unveil the table used to define such zones.

Violators of the ban could face a fine of 135 euros ($160) up to a maximum of 700 euros.

"Tobacco must disappear from places where there are children. A park, a beach, a school - these are places to play, learn and breathe. Not to smoke," said Health and Family Minister Catherine Vautrin.

This is another step "towards a tobacco-free generation," she added, which France is aiming for by 2032.

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