Richardson, TX Public Conduct: Outdoor Smoking Restrictions (2026)

Chapter 10, Article IV of the Richardson Code of Ordinances treats outdoor smoking as an extension of its indoor smoke-free rule rather than a separate ban. Section 10-97(19) lists "public parks including, but not limited to, public recreation fields, pools, children's playground equipment, concession stands, restrooms" among the prohibited places, and section 10-97(18) bars smoking within 25 feet of any door, operable window, vent, or other opening into an enclosed area citywide, which reaches sidewalks and building entrances outside any park. The same 25-foot buffer applies specifically to outdoor places of employment under section 10-98(6) and to public park parking lots under section 10-98(7), both of which are otherwise open to smoking.

Section 10-98(8) exempts patios outright: section 10-96 defines a patio as an improved, unenclosed outdoor area tied to a food service establishment or bar used for dining or entertainment, provided the establishment's entrance sits at least ten feet from the designated smoking area and the space is not merely a walkway. Section 10-99 requires a conspicuously posted "No Smoking" sign, in bold lettering at least one inch tall (or the international no-smoking symbol), at every entrance and at restroom entrances of any premises where smoking is prohibited.

The health department, or another official the city manager designates, enforces the article by issuing a municipal court citation under section 10-100, and any member of the public may file a complaint to trigger enforcement.