Smoking and Vaping Rules in Barrie, Ontario
Key takeaways
Barrie's By-law 2019-052 bans smoking and vaping in all public spaces such as walkways and parks, in workplaces, and on outdoor food service patios. A 20-metre buffer applies around recreation centres and arenas, and 9 metres around patios. The city says fines can reach $100,000 on city property.
Barrie, Ontario bans smoking and vaping in all public spaces, which the city defines to include walkways and parks, as well as in workplaces. The rule is By-law 2019-052, described on the City of Barrie’s Smoking Law page.
Where does the Barrie by-law apply?
According to the city, smoking and vaping are prohibited in:
- all public spaces, such as walkways and parks
- workplaces
- recreation centres and arenas, on the property and in a buffer zone around it
- outdoor food service patios
- city-owned open space and environmentally protected lands
- urban squares, splash pads and fitness areas
The same page says smoking and vaping are allowed on private property, subject to Ontario law. Signs are posted at parks and facilities.
What distances apply?
| Place | Extra distance |
|---|---|
| Recreation centre or arena | 20 metres around the property |
| Outdoor food service patio | 9 metres around the patio |
What is the fine?
The city states that failing to obey the by-law could result in a fine of up to $100,000 if the offence is on City property such as a park. That is the maximum, not a standard ticket amount, and the page does not give a set fine. For how penalties compare elsewhere, see fines for smoking in prohibited places.
How is it enforced?
By-law enforcement staff educate people about the rules and enforce them when required. The city’s advice on the page is short: when in doubt, put it out.
How do I report a problem?
The page does not describe a separate reporting process. It lists By-law Enforcement Services as the contact:
- Phone: 705-739-4241
- Email: [email protected]
How does it relate to Ontario law?
The city by-law sits on top of the Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017, which already covers enclosed workplaces, patios, school grounds and playgrounds. See the Ontario summary, the provincial rules, and smoking on balconies and patios. The wider context is in outdoor smoking bans, and other cities are on the bylaw hub.
Legal information only, not legal advice. Laws and bylaws change; confirm the current text in the official source before you rely on it. Read the full disclaimer.
Frequently asked questions
Can I smoke in a Barrie park?
No. Barrie's smoking law prohibits smoking and vaping in all public spaces, including walkways and parks, and in city-owned open space.
How far from a recreation centre do I need to be?
The restriction extends an additional 20 metres around recreation centres and arenas.
Who do I call about the smoking law in Barrie?
By-law Enforcement Services at 705-739-4241 or [email protected].
Sources
- Smoking Law — City of Barrie. Accessed October 27, 2026.