Newburgh, N.Y. Bans Smoking in Parks

At its most recent meeting, the Newburgh City Council unanimously approved a ban on smoking in city-owned parks that will go into effect on May 1.

The ban covers eight city parks as well as four outdoor recreation areas, as well as spaces the city refers to as “other areas or at events where persons cannot readily escape nearby second-hand smoke,” namely outdoor dining areas, outside of city-owned buildings, within 25 feet of mobile vending carts and transit centers, as well as outdoor events such as concerts, performances, block parties and the like. The city does allow for the organizer of such events to request a designated smoking area that would require city approval.

Violators of the ban will face a fine of up to $50 for the first violation, which escalates to not more than $100 for a second violation and up to $250 for any subsequent violations.

Newburgh is located approximately 60 miles north of New York City and 90 miles south of Albany. It is home to just over 28,000 residents.