The 2011 San Antonio Smoke-Free Air Ordinance, codified at SAMC Chapter 13, bans smoking in restaurants, bars, workplaces, sports venues, and within 20 feet of building entrances. Public parks, plazas, and the River Walk are also covered. E-cigarettes were added by 2015 amendment, making it among the strongest in Texas.
San Antonio City Council adopted the Smoke-Free Air Ordinance in 2011, codified in SAMC Chapter 13. The ordinance bans smoking inside virtually every enclosed public place and workplace, including restaurants, bars, retail stores, hotel lobbies, sports venues, bingo halls, and bowling alleys, with no separate-ventilation exception. Outdoor smoking is banned within 20 feet of entrances, exits, operable windows, and ventilation intakes; on outdoor restaurant patios and seating areas; in city parks and on library plazas; along the River Walk; and at city-owned outdoor venues. A 2015 amendment expanded coverage to include e-cigarettes and vaping. Operators must post signage, ensure compliance by patrons, and remove ashtrays. San Antonio Metro Health investigates complaints and issues citations.
Individual smokers face Class C misdemeanors up to $500 per offense. Property operators face civil penalties up to $2,000 per day and license review. Repeat operator violations support permit revocation by Metro Health and Development Services.
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San Antonio, TX
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San Antonio, TX
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San Antonio, TX
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San Antonio, TX
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San Antonio, TX
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San Antonio, TX
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See how San Antonio's outdoor smoking restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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