This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
Santa Monica's Expanded Residential Smoking Ban Takes Effect Today
No smoking on SaMo balconies as of today (Photo by MelvinSchlubman via Flickr)
A ban on smoking on residential balconies and porches in Santa Monica goes into effect today, reports the Argonaut.Part of tightened local laws regarding second-hand smoke, Ordinance 2318, adopted last month, bans people from lighting up on "all private balconies, patios, porches, and decks within [a] 25-foot radius [around all doors, windows, and vents] and also covers areas on neighboring properties" also within 25 feet of doors, windows, and vents. This ordinance amends Santa Monica's already strict laws prohibiting smoking in public places and common areas of residential units.
Landlords must post signs accordingly that let tenants know about the new ordinance, as well as reach out to all affected units in their buildings by December 1 to inform them of what areas are covered under the law, and what the consequences are for violations.
"Under the law, a person who smokes in a restricted area is subject to a court-ordered payment of $100 for the first offense. Subsequent violations carry payments of $200 and $500 respectively," explains the Argonaut. Smokers who wish to contest their fine can take their case to court.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
