Starting January 1, 2025, smoking in outdoor public spaces will be prohibited in Milan unless individuals maintain a distance of at least 10 meters from others. The new rules apply to all public areas, including streets, with violations resulting in fines ranging from 40 to 240 euros.
There are also some uncertainties about the use of outdoor seating areas and vape.
The Outdoor Smoking Ban in Milan
Milan is set to enforce a new smoking ban starting January 2025. The city’s public spaces will no longer permit smoking outdoors unless a 10-meter distance is maintained from other people. This ban applies not only to parks but also to streets and other public areas. Cigarette smoking will be allowed only in isolated locations where it is possible to respect the 10-meter distance.
Background of the Ban
The new outdoor smoking ban is part of the city’s broader efforts to improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions. The initiative was introduced as part of Milan’s “Piano Aria Clima” (Air and Climate Plan), which aims to cut CO2 emissions in half by 2050 through various actions, including this ban on smoking in public spaces. This measure marks the second phase of Milan’s anti-smoking campaign. In 2021, smoking was already prohibited in areas such as public transportation stops, parks (unless at least 10 meters away from others), sports facilities (including San Siro stadium), playgrounds, cemeteries, and dog parks.
Penalties for Violating the Ban
Those who do not comply with the new smoking ban in Milan will face fines ranging from 40 to 240 euros. According to Il Giorno, no additional administrative action is needed for the ban to go into effect, as it was already approved as part of the “Regolamento per la qualità dell’aria” (Regulation for Air Quality). The full ban, effective from January 1, 2025, will apply to all public or publicly accessible areas, including streets, unless the location is isolated enough to maintain the 10-meter distance from others.
Concerns Over Outdoor Seating Areas and vape
There are still some unanswered questions regarding the inclusion of outdoor seating areas (dehors) in the smoking ban. The primary concern is whether these outdoor spaces are classified as private or public. If deemed private, smoking may still be allowed outside cafes and restaurants. However, if they are considered public spaces, the smoking ban would extend to outdoor tables as well.
At present, vape are not included in the ban. The regulation from 2021 did not address vape or heated tobacco products, but there is speculation that additional measures may be introduced soon to regulate where and how vape can be used in public spaces.
What This Means for Smokers in Milan
The new outdoor smoking ban reflects Milan’s commitment to improving public health and environmental quality. While it may limit where smokers can enjoy a cigarette, it could also encourage more people to consider alternatives such as vape. As the city prepares for these changes, further clarification on the status of outdoor seating areas and vape will likely follow.
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