Calabasas passes no smoking law 5-0

Ending a debate that has sparked interest nationwide, Calabasas City Council passed its secondhand smoke ordinance in a final 5-0 vote last week.

Beginning March 17, smokers will be prohibited from smoking in all public places in Calabasas where nonsmokers can be exposed to the secondhand smoke.

The city’s new law, however, will allow smoking in the following places:

•Private residential property, other than housing used as a childcare or healthcare facility when employees, children or patients are present

•Up to 20 percent of guest rooms in any hotel or motel

•Designated smoking “outposts” in shopping mall common areas that are at least five feet away from any doorway or opening that leads to an enclosed area. All business owners may apply with the city to install designated smoking areas that are a “reasonable” distance from nonsmokers. Forms will be available on the planning department website beginning in April. No fee for the application will be charged.

Some of the frequently asked questions about the new law include:

Has the city of Calabasas banned smoking?

No. The purpose of the Comprehensive Secondhand Smoke Control Ordinance is to limit public exposure to secondhand smoke in public areas within the city.

Where is smoking prohibited?

Smoking is prohibited in all public places in Calabasas, including indoor and outdoor businesses, hotels, parks, apartment common areas, restaurants and bars where people can be reasonably expected to congregate or meet.

Can I smoke in my house or apartment? Can I smoke on my balcony?

Yes. The only exception is if your apartment or balcony is directly adjacent to a common area, such as a laundry room or pool.

What should I do if I witness someone violating the ordinance?

If you are at a business, retail store or restaurant, please ask an employee to enforce the ordinance. If you are walking down the street or in a public place, you can ask the smoker to extinguish their cigarette, cigar or pipe. If you are uncomfortable doing so or the person refuses

818) 878-4225.

What if my place of business doesn’t have a designated smokng area? Where should I go to

moke?

It will take some time for most businesses to set up their designated smoking areas. Until then,

elect an area at least 20 feet away

rom any path of travel, doorway, or place where people congregate. Remember that if someone complains, you’ll need to select a new

ocation or refrain from smoking.

What is the fine if I offend others with my smoking?

The law provides a variety of

nforcement methods ranging

rom warnings to tickets to lawuits. The city or private parties who have given notice to the city can enforce the ordinance. Calabasas officials expect to rely on warnings and tickets for most offenders but will consider more serious penalties for willful or repeat offenders.

The ordinance text is available on the Calabasas website at www.cityofcalabasas.com.