The Lee County Board of Commissioners voted Tuesday to schedule a public hearing for June 17th to consider amending an ordinance and prohibit smoking and vaping at county parks and beaches. The county owns Lynn Hall Park and Bowditch on Fort Myers Beach.
Florida Statutes Section 386.209 has generally preempted the regulation of smoking to the state, with certain exceptions, including the ability for local governments to prohibit smoking at schools and indoor park facilities. The statute was amended in 2019 to further allow local governments to prohibit smoking and vaping at all county parks and public beaches. Unfiltered cigars are exempt under the statute.
If the Board approves the amendment, the ordinance will continue to be enforced by Lee County Parks & Recreation. Lee County Parks & Recreation rangers’ primary focus is to ensure the safety of park visitors and protect the natural resources of Lee County’s complex ecosystems and parklands. The rangers are considered “Ambassadors of the Park” and provide visitors with information regarding park activities and offer various educational programs. The rangers can, however, cite individuals who do not comply with ordinances. The fine schedule will continue to be $100 for a first offense, $200 for a second offense and $300 for a third.
If approved by commissioners, the amendment to the ordinance will take effect upon being filed with the Florida Department of State.
One cigar smoker near the stage at Cruiser’s Appreciation Day last month ruined the event for 30 minutes, as the wind blew it to all the attendees. I finally asked him to put it out. Suicide is legal, HOMOCIDE IS NOT. Dear smokers – stop poisoning the public.
Cigars… may as well have a cat turd in your mouth.
So odd that cigars are allowed, but not cigarettes.
It will be challenged. Tobacco should have been designated as a Class 1 drug decades ago.
Agree wholeheartedly
As in, why is second hand smoke permitted anywhere?