The DC Department of Health works to reduce exposure to secondhand smoke through the drafting and implementation of laws and regulations that restrict smoking in public places.
Secondhand smoke is a proven health hazard. The Department of Health Functions Clarification Amendment Act of 2006 prohibits smoking in most public places. The law became effective on April 4, 2006. The law makes it a violation of District law for any person to smoke in an area where it is prohibited. It is also a violation for an employer, owner, manager, or person in authority to permit smoking in prohibited areas or to fail to post "No Smoking" signs.
Workplaces
The law requires that virtually all establishments and businesses with employees be smoke-free.
This includes work areas, employee lounges, restrooms, conference rooms, classrooms, employee cafeterias, hallways, and vehicles owned by a private employer. Private residences are exempt unless used as a childcare, adult day care or health care facility.
Public Places
According to the law, smoking is prohibited in all enclosed public places in the District of Columbia, including but not limited to the following:
- Banks
- Health care facilities
- Educational facilities
- Laundromats
- Public transportation facilities Reception areas
- Restaurants Retail food production and marketing establishments
- Retail service establishments Retail stores
- Shopping malls
- Theaters
- Sports arenas
- Waiting rooms
Enforcement
The District of Columbia Department of Health assists with enforcement of the law. Staff conducts routine and complaint-driven inspections to determine compliance with the "Smoke-Free Workplaces Law"
DC Health's Environmental Health Administration enforces the Smoke-Free Workplace law. If you have a complaint, please email [email protected].
If you need more information about Tobacco Control activities and events in the District, please reach out via email to [email protected].