The Smoke-Free Ontario Act affects people in all walks of life, including proprietors, employers, workers, retailers and health care service providers.
Smoking is the number one cause of death and disease in Ontario. It kills 13,000 people every year.
The province has developed a comprehensive Smoke-Free Ontario Strategy which combines public education with programs, policies and legislation to:
- help smokers to quit,
- protect non-smokers from exposure to second-hand smoke, and
- encourage young people to never start.
The Smoke-Free Ontario Act prohibits smoking in workplaces, enclosed public spaces and also in motor vehicles when children under 16 are present. It also bans the public display of tobacco products prior to purchase and prohibits youth-targeted tobacco products such as flavoured cigarillos.
These efforts have greatly reduced tobacco use and lowered health risks to non-smokers in Ontario.
The Smoke-Free Ontario Act is designed to protect the health of all Ontarians by prohibiting smoking in all enclosed workplaces and enclosed public places in Ontario as of May 31, 2006.
- Go to the Smoke-Free Ontario Act.
- Go to the Ontario Regulation associated with the act.
The Act in Brief
Here’s a rundown of the highlights of the Smoke-Free Ontario Act. Learn how the legislation protects Ontarians from the adverse effects of tobacco. More.
Legislation Comparison Chart
Ontario's last anti-smoking legislation was introduced in 1994. Find out what's new in the Smoke-Free Ontario Act. More.
Tobacco Legislation Facts and Myths
There are many myths associated with banning smoking. From second-hand smoke to sales numbers to pollution. Get the real facts here. More.
Signs for Stores and Public Places
Since May 31, 2008, there are restrictions on how tobacco products can be displayed, handled and promoted in a retail store. These rules need to be reviewed carefully. More.
