France Institutes Smoking Prohibition in Public Spaces
France to Implement Outdoor Smoking Ban in Public Places Frequented by Children Starting July 2025
Starting from next summer, France will enforce a smoking ban in outdoor public spaces, including beaches, parks, and other locations where children are present, with violators facing fines of up to 135 euros.
The new measure, an integral part of the French government's effort to combat tobacco consumption and promote a smoke-free generation, will affect public spaces such as gardens, bus stops, areas around schools, and sports facilities. The goal is to denormalize tobacco use, particularly among young people, by making the habit less accessible and appealing.
The ban will spare the outdoor areas of hospitality establishments, such as cafes and bars, where smoking will still be allowed. However, the government plans to restrict the permitted nicotine content and flavors in electronic cigarettes by mid-2026.
Health Minister Catherine Vautrin explained that the ban aims to protect children's right to clean air, asserting that "the freedom to smoke ends where the right to clean air for children begins." The move is part of a broader government initiative against tobacco consumption, which accounts for around 13% of the total annual deaths in France.
France has a high prevalence of smoking, with nearly a quarter of the population smoking daily, according to the French Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. To address this issue, the government has been progressively expanding smoking bans over the years, beginning with the prohibition of smoking in restaurants and clubs in 2008.
The government is currently finalizing the detailed legal framework and specific regulations for the new ban, consulting with the French Council of State for their input. The ban is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.
[1] "French Government Announces Smoking Ban in Public Places Frequented by Children," ntv.de, 2025.[2] "France to Ban Smoking in Outdoor Public Places Frequented by Children," lme/AFP, 2025.[3] "France Pursues Smoke-Free Generation Plan," French Ministry of Health, 2023.[4] "2025 Smoking Ban in France," French National Tobacco Control Programme, 2023.[5] "Smoking Prevalence in France," French Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, 2025.
- Amidst France's broader initiative to combat tobacco, the community policy outlines the implementation of a smoke-free health-and-wellness environment for children, extending to science-based notions of mental health and nutrition.
- In the employment policy sector, the French government plans to restrict the allowed nicotine content and flavors in electronic cigarettes, aimed at promoting fitness-and-exercise culture and discouraging tobacco use.
- With various policies already in place to reduce smoking rates, such as the prohibition of smoking in restaurants and clubs since 2008, France's forthcoming 2025 smoking ban highlights its commitment to denormalize tobacco and fostering a healthier society.
