New Law: This Country Bans Outdoor Smoking Starting in July

Smoke-free beaches – France is significantly tightening its tobacco policy.

The regulation is part of a comprehensive measure to better protect the population from the dangers of tobacco consumption – especially children and adolescents. In addition to beaches, public parks, school surroundings, and accommodations for minors will also become smoke-free zones in the future.

Focus on Protecting Young People

The background of the measure is the realization that a large proportion of smokers start consuming before the age of 18. Health Minister Catherine Vautrin emphasized that where there are children, "tobacco must disappear." The national legislation now replaces existing local regulations – for example, in Marseille, where a beach smoking ban has been in place since 2021, but was only limitedly observed.

Skepticism Among the Population and Initiatives

Some citizens express doubts about the effectiveness of the ban. The environmental initiative "Clean my Calanques" recently reported collecting over 2,000 cigarette butts on Marseille beaches. Residents like retiree Simone Torrente also criticize the measure as excessive. Nevertheless, the city administration relies on stronger enforcement by the national police, which will be responsible in the future. Violations could result in fines of up to 135 euros.

E-Cigarettes Still Allowed – But Not Unlimited

The new law does not yet include the consumption of e-cigarettes, whose use is still permitted. However, the government plans restrictions, such as limiting nicotine content and the variety of flavors. As early as February, France banned the sale of disposable e-cigarettes to better protect young people.

Broad Support Among the Population

According to official estimates, around 75,000 people die annually in France from the consequences of smoking. Another 5,000 deaths are attributed to passive smoking. A recent survey shows that 62 percent of French people support the expansion of the smoking ban.

Questions and Answers About the Smoking Ban in France

Which places are affected by the new smoking ban?
The smoking ban applies from July 1, 2025, on public beaches throughout France. Parks, areas around schools, educational institutions, and accommodations for minors are also affected. The aim is to protect young people and public spaces.

What are the consequences of violating the smoking ban?
Anyone who smokes in one of the affected areas despite the ban faces a fine of up to 135 euros. Enforcement will be the responsibility of the national police rather than the municipal administration.

Who specifically enforces the smoking ban on beaches?
The enforcement of the smoking ban on beaches and other public places is the responsibility of the national police. They can penalize violations and issue fines. In practice, however, the intensity of enforcement varies by region.

Have there been similar bans in other countries?
Yes, several European countries have already introduced smoking bans on beaches – such as Spain or Italy in certain regions. Belgium has also banned disposable e-cigarettes nationwide. With its measures, France is following a Europe-wide trend towards stricter tobacco regulations.

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.