Smokefree Indoor Air

The City of Columbus Smokefree Indoor Air ordinance was championed by Council member Charleta Tavares and received first reading at the June 14, 2004 meeting of Council.  The ordinance was then tabled pending two public hearings (dates listed below) and voted on at the June 28, 2004 meeting of Council.  The ordinance passed 5 to 1.

On November 2, 2004, Columbus residents voted in support of the Columbus Smokefree Indoor Air Ordinance.

Ordinance (1095-2004):   (Click to View ordinance) []  

In November of 2006, Ohio voters passed a statewide indoor air act.

Frequently Asked Questions:

When will provisions of the ordinance be enforced by the City of Columbus? 

January 31, 2005

What establishments are affected by the ordinance?

All enclosed places of employment and public places within the City of Columbus corporation limits.  Exemptions are listed in Section 715.03 of the above attached ordinance.

Does the ordinance allow for separate ventilated smoking rooms?

No

Who will enforce the ordinance?

City of Columbus' Health, Development and Public Safety Departments.

Who do I contact to report a violation?

Under the Smokefree Indoor Air Act, the Columbus Health Department is responsible for public education, and complaint response and enforcement.  Enforcement activities will began on January 31, 2005.   Violations of the ordinance can be reported to the Health Department through their hotline (614) 724-4247. 

For more information on the Smokefree Indoor Air Act, please visit the Columbus Health Department.