The days of smoking on a patio in Ottawa are officially numbered.
After months of speculation, the new public smoking ban will begin April 2, 2012, the City of Ottawa announced March 19.
However, city officials will first introduce a “warning phase” to educate citizens and tourists about the new regulations. Official charges will start July 2. After Canada Day, violators could be issued a $305 ticket.
Under this new amendment city parks, playgrounds, beaches and sports fields will be considered smoke-free. Byward and Parkdale market stands are also off-limits for smokers.
Perhaps the most controversial amendments affect restaurants and bars in Centretown and the Byward Market. Patrons at restaurants and bars will no longer be able to smoke on outdoor patios.
The rules do not include the after-8 p.m. easing that the city originally requested in the report. This condition would have allowed smokers to indulge at night without penalty.
Organizers of the Capital Pride Festival, which partly takes place in Centretown, have already complained that the ban would turn away attendees. They say there are a greater proportion of smokers within the LGBTQ community than the public at large.
Ottawa Public Health says it has support from residents to expand smoke-free spaces.
The proposed bylaws are designed to protect children and non-smokers from second-hand smoke and to help residents quit smoking.