New smoking ban on patios, playgrounds now in force

New Brunswickerslooking to celebrate Canada Day on a patio, playground or near other public spaces will not have to worry about any unwanted cigarette smoke wafting their way.

These new changes are a result of the amendments made earlier this year to the Smoke-Free Places Act and theTobacco SalesAct.

"These changes represent our government's commitment to helping New Brunswickers live longer, healthier lives," saidHealth Minister VictorBoudreauin a statement.

The new rules apply to a whole series of outdoor locations.That means no smoking or vaping on patios, or similar outdoor facilities where food and or alcohol is served.

The new rules prohibit smoking:

• Within three metres away from the patio's boundary
• Nine metres from doorways, windows and air intakes of enclosed public places and indoor workplaces
• Ninemetresfrom a public walking or jogging trail in an outdoor public place
• Twentymetres from children's equipment and sports areas located in an outdoor public place
• Every square metreof a provincial parks except within the boundaries of rented campsites, golf courses and designated areas within the park.

E-cigarettes and water pipes are alsobanned anywhere that cigarettes are prohibited.

The fine for violating the smoking ban ranges between $140 and $1,100 for an individual, while a manager or owner of a building who allows smoking in an area not permittedcould befined between $240 and $5,200.

The provincial government has also banned the sale of e-cigarettes and their liquids people under 19 years of age.

The new law also imposesage and promotion restrictions on these products,requires the supplies to be hidden from sight and bansthe sale of smoking supplies to minors.

The crack down will ramp up another notchin another sixmonths.

On Jan.1, 2016, all flavoured tobacco including menthol will be banned.

The provincial governmentis giving store owners until January in order to allow them to get rid of their current stock.

There's no word from the Health Department about what the penalties are for breaking the new law.