Overview

• From July 1, smoking will be prohibited in all outdoor areas frequented by children, including beaches, parks, public gardens, outside schools, bus stops and sports venues.
• Violators face fines of up to 135 euros for smoking in restricted zones.
• Café terraces are exempt from the ban, which also does not apply to electronic cigarettes.
• Health Minister Catherine Vautrin said the policy is designed to protect children’s right to breathe clean air.
• Similar outdoor smoking restrictions have been adopted in Australia, the United Kingdom and Milan, reflecting a growing global trend to shield children from secondhand smoke.