Memphis, TN Public Conduct: Outdoor Smoking Restrictions (2026)

Chapter 9-88 targets smoking in specific enclosed public places rather than outdoor space generally. Section 9-88-2(A) makes smoking unlawful in public elevators; all Memphis Area Transit Authority buses; the Mid-South Coliseum Arena seating area (though it's allowed in the concourses and lobbies); Dixon-Myers Hall, the Auditorium South Hall and stage area (lobbies excepted); any Cook Convention Center room the management designates nonsmoking; any theater, hall, hotel, public building, store, warehouse, factory or establishment premises where smoking is 'dangerous,' provided a sign is posted; every restaurant meeting the chapter's 50-seat definition, unless it maintains an adequate nonsmoking area and seats requesting patrons there on request (with an owner able to designate the whole restaurant nonsmoking); and every enclosed shopping area of a retail store with more than five employees.

Section 9-88-2(B) lets hospitals designate nonsmoking lobbies and waiting rooms, which then carry the same prohibition. Section 9-88-3 exempts stores whose sales are principally tobacco products. ' Nothing in Chapter 9-88 reaches open-air spaces: parks, sidewalks, stadium concourses, or restaurant patios are outside its scope unless they're one of the enclosed places the section names.