Environmental Health
HOW THE SMOKE-FREE LAW AFFECTS YOU
As of December 8, 2005, the Clean Indoor Air Act prohibits smoking in all indoor public spaces and workplaces throughout the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the law change?
The law was changed to protect employees and the public in Washington State
from exposure to secondhand smoke. It amends the 1985 Clean Indoor Air Act to
prohibit smoking in all public places and within twenty-five (25) feet or less
of entrances, exits, opening windows and ventilation intakes.
What does the law
require me to do?
You are required to post No Smoking signs that are clearly visible at
each entrance and in other prominent locations and notify employees and patrons
that smoking is no longer permitted in your business.
What types of places
are covered under the new law?
All indoor public spaces and workplaces, including restaurants, bars, skating
rinks, bowling alleys and casinos, are required to be smoke-free. Hotels and
motels must ensure that at least 75% of the rooms are smoke-free.
Does the law apply
to private clubs such as Yacht Clubs, Country Clubs and Fraternal Organizations?
Yes. The law applies to private clubs that have employees, volunteers or that
allow guests. These businesses are required to be smoke-free.
Is smoking allowed
in outside seating areas?
Smoking is not permitted in outside seating areas.
Can I provide an
employee smoking room?
No. The law prohibits employers from providing employee smoking rooms.
Where can employees
go to smoke?
Employees can smoke outside, at least twenty-five feet (25) away from building
entrances, exits, ventilation intakes or openable windows.
What should I do
if someone starts smoking in an area where smoking is prohibited?
It is the responsibility of the business to inform the individual that he/she
is in violation of the law. If the individual refuses to stop smoking or relocate
to an outside area that is at least twenty-five (25) feet from away from building
entrances, exits, ventilation intakes or openable windows, contact your local
law enforcement agency.
Where can I support
employees or customers who want to quitting smoking?
Contact the Washington State Tobacco Quit Line at 1-877-270-STOP (7867).