During the 2022 Florida Legislative Session, a Bill was passed which regulated smoking in public places. The law, in short, allows for counties and municipalities to restrict and/or ban smoking in public places including city parks.
Parks are highly valued environments in our community that promote individual and community wellness. City parks are intended for the healthy enjoyment of all citizens, including children and youth. A smoking ban in parks would protect the health and safety of the community's children, people with asthma, elderly, and pregnant women.
Making these environments tobacco-free is in alignment with community norms, as other cities throughout Florida have adopted policies promoting tobacco and smoke-free public outdoor areas - further restricting smoking within the boundaries of public parks.
This shall not apply during special events authorized by the City when alcohol sales and consumption are permitted, as outlined in Section 1. Chapter 16-7 (e) of the Ordinance. As Council is aware, this item was presented to you for first reading at your special meeting on April 6, 2023. It was the direction of Council to designate a specific area during special events where smoking could be permitted. That provision has been included in the attached draft of the ordinance by the City Attorney and highlighted for reference.