The Chicago Park District has approved a ban on smoking at any of the city's 580 parks.
Park District Superintendent Mike Kelly said the ban that passed Wednesday is a health initiative that aims to protect park visitors, not to fine smokers. The change is effective immediately but people won't be ticketed at large festivals, such as Riot Fest in Humboldt Park this weekend, he said.
The resolution bans cigarettes, e-cigarettes, tobacco and marijuana use, including medical marijuana.
Chicago already banned smoking at beaches and within 15 feet of playgrounds and field houses.
Health organizations such as the American Lung Association had advocated for the ban for nearly a year.
Signs will be posted at parks and officials expect the ban to be "self-policed," a Park District lawyer said. Chicago Police could fine park smokers up to $500, he said, but punishments are unlikely.
Health organizations such as the American Lung Association had advocated for the ban for nearly a year.
Chicago Park District Bans Smoking in City Parks
Health organizations such as the American Lung Association had advocated for the ban for nearly a year
Copyright AP - Associated Press
