Bellevue, Ky. Passes Smoking Ban Ordinance

At its meeting this week, the Bellevue City Council unanimously passed an ordinance that will bring an end to smoking in almost all public places.

The ordinance prohibits smoking in all enclosed areas of public places without exception, while outdoor, open-air areas have a mix of rules applied to them. Smoking is prohibited within what is called “a reasonable distance” from the outside entrance, window or ventilation system to any building so as to prevent smoke from entering the building. It is also prohibited on all outdoor property that is owned by the city, as well as adjacent to buildings owned, leased or operated by the city.

Businesses may allow smoking in open air areas, such as patios, yards and sidewalks, though doing so must not allow smoke to enter the building.

Apartment buildings, condominiums and other multi-unit residential facilities are allowed to designate up to 25 percent of the total outdoor common area for smoking.

Smoking is not regulated in private clubs or private residences, provided the latter is not used a childcare, adult daycare or healthcare facility.

The ban goes into effect 90 days following its passage, which would be in early May.

Bellevue is home to just over 5,500 residents, and is located just east of Cincinnati, Ohio.