Smoking in Public

The City of Scottsdale is seeking input from residents regarding proposed updates to the city’s smoking in public ordinance. These updates are intended to align with current state law, Smoke-Free Arizona, promote healthier public spaces by limiting exposure to secondhand smoke, and further protect public health and community spaces.

Key updates

• Expanding the definition of "public place" to include all city-owned facilities, whether enclosed or not. This includes bleachers, bus stops, playgrounds, Ramadas, stadiums and swimming pools.

• Expanding the definition of “smoking to include electric smoking devices (e.g., e-cigarettes and vapes.)

View the full proposed draft under the section Supporting Documents.

Would smoking be banned in all city parks?
The proposed updated ordinance would not ban smoking throughout the entirety of the parks, but it would prohibit smoking in specific areas within city parks and facilities (including some outdoor areas).

Would this affect private businesses?
Yes. The ordinance would impact private businesses as it bans smoking, including the use of electric smoking devices, in the same areas that Smoke Free AZ bans smoking.

What qualifies as an “electric smoking device”?
Electric smoking devices include products such as electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), vapes, vape pens, and other similar devices that deliver nicotine or vaporized substances.

How will this ordinance be enforced?
Enforcement will occur through education, citations and fines.

• Employers must inform employees of the smoking ban.
• Property owners may declare entire areas smoke-free.
• "No Smoking” signs must be posted; ashtrays must be removed.
• Retaliation against employees who report violations is prohibited.

Learn More about the Smoke-Free Arizona Law

Smoke-Free Arizona - Smoke-Free Arizona

SFA-Presentation-2008.pdf