Boston Public Health Commission regulations prohibit smoking and vaping in city parks, plazas, beaches, outdoor restaurant patios, bus stops, and within enclosed workplaces, extending the state Smoke-Free Workplace Law.
Massachusetts banned smoking in enclosed workplaces in 2004 under MGL Ch. 270 §22. Boston went further: BPHC's Smoke-Free Workplace and Public Spaces Regulation prohibits smoking and vaping in all city parks under Boston Parks & Recreation jurisdiction, on beaches, at municipal building entrances, and on permitted outdoor dining patios. Bus shelters and MBTA platforms are also covered through MBTA regulations. The rules apply to combustible tobacco, e-cigarettes, hookah, and cannabis products. Workplaces must post notices and remove ashtrays from prohibited areas. Licensed smoking bars and private homes (other than family child care areas) remain exempt.
Civil fines start at $100 for individual smokers and $200 for businesses failing to enforce signage and policies, escalating with repeat offenses; permit suspensions can follow for licensed venues per BPHC procedures.
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See how Boston's outdoor smoking restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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