Smoking in a number of large outdoor areas might soon become illegal in a large section of inner-Melbourne outdoor areas if a proposal by Boroondara City Council us approved.

 

The council is seeking comment on the proposed laws that would see smoking near playgrounds, taxi ranks, bus and tram stops, Council buildings, sportsgrounds and at Council events.

 

"Council believes a smoking ban in some public outdoor areas will help improve the wellbeing of the people in our community," Mayor of Boroondara, Cr Heinz Kreutz said.

 

"We have drafted this local law, and now we are asking 'Have we got it right?'

 

The proposed Smoke-Free Areas Local Law will prohibit smoking of tobacco products:

  • within ten metres of children's playground equipment, barbeques and picnic tables
  • within ten metres of organised activities taking place at sporting fields, sporting facilities and playing fields on Council-controlled land
  • within five metres of an entrance to a municipal building
  • within five metres of taxi ranks and public transport stops located on Council-controlled land
  • at events organised or sponsored by Council
  • in areas prescribed by Council to be a smoke-free area.

 

The proposed law is now open for public comment and submissions close on 19 July.


Council will consider the proposed law in August. Submissions should be lodged at the Council office at 8 Inglesby Road, Camberwell or posted to Council at Private Bag 1, Camberwell, Victoria 3124.


A full copy of the proposed law is available at Your Say or Council offices.