El Monte, CA Public Conduct: Public Marijuana Use (2026)

020 defines 'smoke' to include 'tobacco smoke, electronic cigarette vapors, and marijuana smoke,' and 'smoking' as any act that generates it, including possessing a lit pipe, hookah, cigar, or cigarette, or operating an electronic cigarette. 030(A) prohibits smoking, in all enclosed and unenclosed areas, at nine categories of place: community centers, cultural institutions, government or government-related facilities, outdoor seating and dining areas, private and public recreation facilities, public event areas such as farmers' markets and festivals, service points like bus stops and ATMs, and transit stations.

74 (Smoke-Free Multi-Unit Residences). Subsection C bars leaving out ashtrays or smoking receptacles in a no-smoking area and prohibits dumping tobacco product waste there. 040 requires conspicuous 'no smoking' signage, at least one inch tall or using the international red-circle-and-bar symbol, posted by the owner or manager of each covered location; the presence or absence of a sign is not a defense to a smoking citation. 18, or a civil action carrying a fine of not less than $100 and not more than $1,000 per violation.

Every instance of prohibited smoking is a separate violation, each violation is independently declared a public nuisance, and the ordinance bars retaliating against anyone who seeks compliance.