Butt Out: New Westminster smoking bylaw in effect as of January 1st

New Westminster, BC – Each year, almost half of us will make a New Year’s resolution to eat better, exercise more, or take up a hobby.  One of the most common resolutions is to quit smoking.  Fraser Health and the City of New Westminster are working together to help support individuals achieve their goal of quitting smoking.

As of January 1, 2015, changes to New Westminster’s Smoking Control Bylaw have come into effect to reduce the impact of exposure to second-hand smoke in public spaces, including banning smoking on all restaurant and pub patios; and within 15 meters of outdoor sports facilities, playgrounds, off-leash dog parks and picnic areas within city parks.

“The reality is that if you are constantly surrounded by people who are smoking, it will be harder for you to stick to your New Year’s resolution to quit smoking,” says Dr. Lisa Mu, Medical Health Officer with Fraser Health.  “Through our Healthy Community Partnership Committee with the City of New Westminster, we can support you to quit smoking, and discourage others from even starting, by creating more smoke-free environments.”

“Under the new bylaw amendments, business owners will be required to display prominent ‘no smoking’ signs, remove ashtrays and take steps to ensure smoking does not take place on their premises,” said Kim Deighton, Acting Manager of Licensing and Integrated Services with the City of New Westminster.  “A limited number of signs and decals are available for pickup at New Westminster City facilities and at the Fraser Health Public Health Unit.”

More information on the bylaws, smoking cessation support, roles and responsibilities of businesses, and the Healthier Community Partnership Committee can be found online at www.newwestcity.ca.

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For media inquiries, please contact:

Smoking cessation and healthy community inquiries:
Fraser Health
604-450-7881

Bylaw inquiries:
City of New Westminster
Manager, Licensing and Integrated Services
604-527-4645