I’ll provide a summary of Bylaw No. 8591 for the City of Prince George:
Smoke and Vape Free Places Bylaw No. 8591, 2016
Key Provisions
Purpose
The bylaw aims to protect and promote public health by regulating smoking and vaping in various public spaces within the City of Prince George.
Prohibited Smoking and Vaping Areas
Smoking and vaping are prohibited in the following locations:
- Vehicles for hire (taxis, limousines, shuttles)
- Within 6 meters of transit shelters or transit sign posts
- Within 6 meters of any building opening (doors, windows, air intakes)
- Customer service areas
- Within 6 meters of customer service area perimeters
- Outdoor sport facilities and playgrounds (within 25 meters)
- Open space areas
- Places of public assembly
- City-owned buildings and facilities (except rented dwellings)
- Hospitals and health clinics
Responsibilities of Responsible Persons
Operators and managers of the above-mentioned spaces must:
- Ensure no smoking or vaping occurs in their premises
- Post and maintain clear signage indicating smoking and vaping prohibitions
Signage Requirements
Signs must:
- Be displayed in a prominent location
- Contain text like “No Smoking or Vapourizing” or “Smoke and Vape Free”
- Use contrasting colors
- Have specific letter heights based on viewing distance
- Include a reference to the bylaw and maximum fine ($2,000)
Penalties
- Minimum fine of $100 per offense
- Maximum fine of $2,000
- Each day of violation is considered a separate offense
- Enforcement by Bylaw Enforcement Officers and RCMP
Effective Date
The bylaw came into force on May 1, 2017
Adoption
The bylaw was unanimously passed by the City Council on December 19, 2016.
