Chico, CA Public Conduct: Outdoor Smoking Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Buffer distance
- 20 feet from openings
- Covers vaping
- yes, by definition
- Outdoor cafes
- smoking banned outright
- First offense fine
- up to $100
Summary
Chico bans smoking, including vaping, within 20 feet of doorways, windows or other openings into places where smoking is already prohibited, and separately bans it in all outdoor cafes serving alcohol.
Smoking shall be prohibited in all unenclosed areas located within 20 feet of the doorway or operable window, or other opening, into any enclosed area, place of employment or outdoor café in which smoking is prohibited by this chapter, except while actively passing by on the way to another destination and provided that smoke does not enter any of those areas where smoking is prohibited.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Supplement contains local legislation current through: Codified Resolution No. 53-26, adopted 7-14-26 and Ordinance No. 2622, adopted 6-2-26).
Full Breakdown
Chico Municipal Code § 8.28.053 prohibits smoking in unenclosed areas within 20 feet of a doorway, operable window or other opening into an enclosed area, workplace or outdoor café where smoking is banned, with a narrow exception for someone actively passing by. Section 8.28.055 separately bans smoking in every outdoor café licensed to serve alcohol. The Civic Center's own rules (§ 9.43.080) go further, banning all smoking, expressly including electronic smoking devices, throughout that public plaza. 'Smoking' is defined in § 8.28.010 to cover both tobacco and electronic/vaping devices.
Violations & Fines
A first violation is an infraction punishable by up to a $100 fine, rising to $200 for a second violation in the same year and up to $500 for a third or later violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I vape on a restaurant patio in Chico?
Are outdoor cafes exempt from Chico's smoking ban?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chico
California rules heatmap·Compare Chico to another location·View the California public conduct overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.