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Des Moines, IA Public Conduct: Outdoor Smoking Restrictions (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Authority
IA Code Ch. 142D
Indoor Workplaces
Smokefree statewide
Vape
Treated as tobacco
Casinos
Partial exemption

Summary

Iowa Smokefree Air Act bans smoking in most enclosed workplaces and at outdoor city facilities; Des Moines extends bans to playgrounds and Principal Park while leaving sidewalks generally permissive.

142D.3 Prohibition of smoking — public places, places of employment, and outdoor areas. 1. Smoking is prohibited and a person shall not smoke in any of the following: a. Public places. b. All enclosed areas within places of employment... 2. In addition to the prohibitions specified in subsection 1, smoking is prohibited and a person shall not smoke in or on any of the following outdoor areas: a. The seating areas of outdoor sports arenas, stadiums, amphitheaters, and other entertainment venues where members of the general public assemble to witness entertainment events. b. Outdoor seating or serving areas of restaurants. c. Public transit stations, platforms, and shelters under the authority of the state or its political subdivisions.

Source: Iowa Code Ch. 142DView official code

Full Breakdown

The Iowa Smokefree Air Act (IA Code Ch. 142D) prohibits smoking in enclosed workplaces, restaurants, and bars statewide, preempting most local indoor rules. Des Moines bans smoking in city-owned outdoor spaces including playgrounds, athletic fields, swimming pools, and Principal Park. Public sidewalks generally remain permissive, though business owners can ban smoking near entrances. Vape and e-cigarettes are treated the same as tobacco statewide. Iowa casinos retain a partial exemption for designated gaming areas. Enforcement is primarily by Polk County Health rather than DSMPD.

Violations & Fines

Civil penalties up to $100 first offense, escalating to $500, business-license consequences for non-compliant venues, Polk County Health enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I smoke on a downtown sidewalk?
Generally yes, but private property owners can ban smoking near entrances, and city parks, playgrounds, and stadium grounds are smoke-free.
Are vape lounges allowed indoors?
Vape is treated as tobacco under Iowa law, so indoor vape lounges are not permitted unless they qualify as adult-only retail tobacco stores.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Des Moines

Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard FiresSignificant RestrictionsSkateboarding RulesSignificant RestrictionsLoitering RulesSome RestrictionsPublic UrinationSome RestrictionsLoud Party OrdinanceSome RestrictionsJaywalkingSignificant RestrictionsPublic Alcohol UseSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: Curb Color RulesSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Fence Permit RequirementsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Coyote ManagementHeavy RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: MicrochippingSome RestrictionsFire Regulations: Smoke DetectorsSome Restrictions

All Des Moines rules

Compare Des Moines to another location·View the Iowa public conduct overview

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