Smokefree Law in Brief

On 1 July 2007, England became smokefree. The new smokefree law has been introduced to protect employees and the public from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.

It is now against the law to smoke in virtually all enclosed public places, workplaces and in public and work vehicles.

Indoor smoking rooms in public places and workplaces are no longer allowed.

Managers of smokefree premises and vehicles have legal responsibilities to prevent smoking and to ensure that no-smoking signs are displayed as required by the new law.

The law applies to anything that can be smoked. This includes cigarettes, pipes (including water pipes such as shisha and hookah pipes), cigars and herbal cigarettes.

Failure to comply with the new law is a criminal offence. Penalties and fines for smokefree offences have been outlined.

Local councils are responsible for enforcing the new law. They will offer information, advice and support to businesses to help them meet their legal obligations.

Further Information

You can find out more information on the new law on the Smokefree England website (www.smokefreeengland.co.uk).