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France Bans Smoking on Ski Slopes as Winter Season Opens

A July decree sets a 135-euro penalty, with resorts using humor to inform visitors.

Overview

  • The nationwide rule applies to ski pistes, lift queues and remontées mécaniques in resorts across the Alps and the Pyrenees.
  • Published on June 27 and in force since July 1, the decree extended existing outdoor no-smoking zones to spaces frequented by minors, including beaches, parks and school surroundings.
  • France Montagnes has launched a light‑toned campaign for skiers and operators, featuring slogans such as “On vous tend des perches pour arrêter.”
  • Authorities cite youth protection and cleaner environments as goals, highlighting cigarette-butt litter as a persistent problem in high-traffic areas.
  • Mountain cleanups last winter collected 57,258 cigarette butts, and early local bans in some resorts, such as Les Gets, report strong acceptance.