Revised January 1, 2015
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Starting January 1, 2015, smoking is no longer permitted on children's playgrounds or in public spaces within 20 metres of a playground ("smoke-free areas").
A children's playground is:
These restrictions include playgrounds at hotels, motels and inns. It does not apply to personal properties or apartment and condominium premises.
It is the responsibility of the owner, operator or the person in charge of the place to ensure that smoking laws are followed.
They are required to:
Local public health units will carry out inspections and respond to complaints regarding smoking on and around playgrounds.
An individual who breaks the law against smoking on and around playgrounds may be charged with an offence, and on conviction could be subject to a maximum fine of $1,000 (for a first offence) or $5,000 (for any subsequent offence).
An owner, operator or manager of a children's playground that fails to comply with their obligations under the Smoke Free Ontario Act may be charged, and if convicted, could be subject to the following maximum fines:
This fact sheet is intended as a quick reference only and should not be considered to be legal advice. For more information, please contact your local public health unit.
You may also obtain information by calling toll-free:
Hours of operation: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
For specific information about how smoking laws apply to playgrounds, or on acquiring the appropriate "no smoking" signs, contact your local Public Health Unit.
For more information on the Smoke-Free Ontario Act, please visit the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care website: Ontario.ca/smokefree