On Monday, the Salisbury, Md. City Council passed a ban on smoking in the city’s parks, with the change going into effect immediately upon passage.
Violators will face hefty fines for lighting up in the now off-limits areas, with a first time violation carrying a $500 fine, while a second violation will cost an individual $1,000, though a provision allows for community service to be substituted for the fines — 12 hours for a first offense and 48 hours for a second.
According to the ordinance, smoking and vaping is unlawful in, on, or within 25 feet of all public parks, public bus shelters, public owned or leased and operated buildings and vehicles, the Government Office Building, and the Salisbury Zoo, and along the Riverwalk, including recreational areas within and located along the Riverwalk, except within 15 feet of an officially designated smoking area.
Exceptions have been carved out for designated smoking areas; on any boat or vessel legally docked at the city marina; or inside a non‐city owned or operated vehicle which is legally parked at a playground or recreational area, so long as it is at least 25 feet away from the playground or recreational area.
Salisbury is located on the eastern shore section of Maryland and is home to just over 33,000 residents.