France has introduced a sweeping new smoking ban targeting beaches, parks, and several public areas in a bid to shield children and the general public from the dangers of passive smoking. The law came into effect on Sunday, just one day after it was published in the official government gazette, and a week ahead of the school holiday season a deliberate move to ensure children are protected while outdoors.
Under the new regulations, smoking is now prohibited on beaches, in public parks, near bus shelters, and within a 10-meter radius of locations frequented by minors such as schools, libraries, and swimming pools. The health ministry is expected to clarify the exact distance restrictions and signage requirements in the coming days.
Despite being welcomed as a positive step by health advocates, the ban has not gone far enough for some. Yves Martinet, president of the National Committee Against Smoking (CNCT), criticized the decision to exclude cafe terraces from the ban. “Children go to terraces too,” he pointed out, emphasizing the need for a more comprehensive policy. Martinet also expressed concern over the omission of e-cigarettes from the legislation, warning that flavored vapes are increasingly attractive to young people.
“The rule should be crystal clear—no tobacco or nicotine consumption in public,” Martinet said.
Hospitality industry representatives, however, have pushed back against calls for tighter restrictions. Frank Delvau of the Union of Hotel Trades and Industries (UMIH) argued that banning smoking on terraces would merely shift the problem to surrounding areas. Meanwhile, Franck Trouet from Hotels and Restaurants of France (GHR) maintained that terraces remain essential spaces where “smokers and non-smokers can coexist” and enjoy a sense of freedom.
According to government statistics, passive smoking in France is responsible for between 3,000 and 5,000 deaths annually. While the new law is being hailed as a crucial health initiative, the debate over further limitations—especially in hospitality settings continues to smolder.
