THE CALABASAS CITY COUNCIL unanimously voted to adopt a Comprehensive Secondhand Smoke Control Ordinance. The ordinance, which went into effect on March 17, 2006, limits public exposure to secondhand smoke in public areas within the City. This page provides a brief introduction to the ordinance, an overview of signs you may see related to the ordinance, and some facts about the dangers of secondhand smoke exposure.

Has the City of Calabasas banned smoking?

No. The purpose of the Comprehensive Secondhand Smoke Control Ordinance is to limit public exposure to second-hand smoke in public areas within the City.

Where is smoking prohibited?

Smoking is prohibited in all public places in the City of Calabasas where other persons can be exposed to second-hand smoke. These places include indoor and outdoor businesses, hotels, parks, apartment common areas, restaurants and bars where people can be reasonably expected to congregate or meet.

Can / smoke in my house or apartment? Can I smoke on my balcony?

Yes. The only exception is if your apartment, backyard, or balcony is directly adjacent to a common area, such as a laundry room or pool.

What are "Designated Smoking Areas" and how can my business apply for one?

Under terms of the ordinance, business owners may apply with the City to install a marked "Designated Smoking Area" which designates an area for smoking that is a reasonable distance from non-smokers. Forms will be available on the planning department website beginning in April 2006. There is no cost to apply for approval of a "Designated Smoking Area."

What should I do if l witness someone violating the ordinance?

If you are at a business, retail store or restaurant, please ask an employee to enforce the ordinance. If you are walking down the street or in another public place, you can ask the smoker to extinguish their cigarette, cigar or pipe. If you are uncomfortable doing so, or the person refuses your request, please feel free to contact City code enforcement at (818) 224-1723 or (818) 224-1724.

What if my place of business doesn't have a Designated Smoking Area? Where should I go to smoke?

It will take some time for most businesses to set up their "Designated Smoking Areas." Until then, select an area at least 20 feet away from any path of travel, doorway, or place where people congregate. Remember that if someone complains, you will need to select a new location, or refrain
from smoking.

What is the consequence if I offend others by smoking?

The ordinance provides a variety of methods of enforcement ranging from warnings, to tickets, to lawsuits. The ordinance can be enforced by the City or by private parties who have given notice to the City. The City expects to rely on warnings and tickets for most offenders but will consider more serious penalties for willful or repeat offenders.

Where can I find out more information about the ordinance?

The ordinance text is available online.  You can also contact the City directly at (818) 224-1600 and speak to a staff member who can answer your questions.

To submit a question, please send an email to info@cityofcalabasas.com.

What is secondhand smoke?

Secondhand smoke, is the combination of two forms of smoke from burning tobacco products: sidestream smoke and mainstream smoke. Sidestream smoke, which makes up about half of all secondhand smoke, comes from the burning end of a cigarette, cigar, or pipe. Mainstream smoke is exhaled by the smoker. Exposure to secondhand smoke is also called involuntary smoking or passive smoking.

What chemicals are present in secondhand smoke?

More than 4,000 chemicals have been identified in mainstream tobacco smoke; however, the actual number may be more than 100,000. Of the chemicals identified in secondhand smoke, at least 60 are carcinogens (substances that cause cancer), such as formaldehyde. Six others are substances that interfere with normal cell development, such as nicotine and carbon monoxide. Following is a partial list of chemicals found in tobacco smoke:
Ammonia Acetone, Tar Toluene, Arsenic Cyanide, Formaldehyde, Methane Nicotine, Carbon Monoxide

What are the health effects of exposure to secondhand smoke?

Secondhand smoke exposure is a known risk factor for lung cancer. Approximately 3,000 lung cancer deaths occur each year among adult non-smokers in the United States as a result of exposure to secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke is also linked to nasal sinus cancer. Some research suggests an association between secondhand smoke and cancers of the cervix, breast, and bladder. However, more research is needed in order to confirm a link to these cancers.

For further information

www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Tobacco/ETS