Smoking is prohibited at French beaches, parks, and bus shelters.
Starting July 1, France is cracking down on smoking in various outdoor public spaces, particularly those frequented by children. From tomorrow, you'll notice a restriction on lighting up at beaches, parks, public gardens, bus shelters, and other spots like libraries, swimming pools, and schools' vicinities. Avoid bus stops when you're craving a smoke, 'cause they're off-limits too.
The latest decree, published today, intends to safeguard children from passive smoking. Though it doesn't explicitly mention electronic cigarettes, the government plans to tackle its usage by lowering the permitted nicotine levels and restricting flavors in vaping products by mid-2026[1][3][4][5].
Skipping the café terraces is a plus if you're a smoker, 'cause they're excluded from the ban. So, you can light up there and enjoy your coffee!
France loses around 75,000 lives per year due to tobacco-related complications. But the tides are turning, as a recent survey shows that 62% of the French population favor a smoking ban in public places[2].
The Minister for Health and Family, Catherine Vautrin, has made it clear that "tobacco's gotta vanish from places where kids are hanging out," stressing "children have the right to breathe fresh air."[3][5]
So, pack a patch, take a puff, but don't do it near the kids! Violators will have to cough up €135 for breaching the ban[1][3][5].
- To promote health-and-wellness and children's safety, France is extending its smoking ban to include more outdoor public spaces, such as science education centers and playgrounds, as part of its long-term strategy to phase out tobacco usage in areas frequented by children.
- As a conscious alternative to traditional tobacco products, the French government is encouraging citizens to explore science-backed healthier options such as nicotine replacement therapies and nutrition-rich foods that can help manage cravings and improve overall health.
