News Release
HRM Stepping Up Enforcement of Smoke-Free Places By-law
(Wednesday, October 29/2003)-- Halifax Regional Municipality is stepping up enforcement efforts on the new Smoke-Free Places by-law.
Regional Council re-affirmed its support for the by-law at its regular meeting last evening, and directed HRM staff to strictly adhere to all provisions of the by-law regarding establishments seeking to be classified as a " tobacco bar."
Effective immediately, any establishment that has expressed an interest to HRM in being registered as a tobacco bar must prohibit any smoking outside of designated smoking rooms until/or if they can demonstrate they meet requirements under the by-law.
Establishments seeking designation as a "tobacco bar" must successfully demonstrate to HRM that it has received 10 per cent or more of its annual gross revenue (in the last full two calendar years) from the sale of tobacco products and/or the rental of on-site humidors. No smoking is permitted outside a designated smoking room in such establishments until HRM has verified this financial information.
Regional Council expressed concern that approximately 40 establishments within HRM are seeking exemption under the by-law by attempting to be registered as a "tobacco bar." The registration process is continuing and HRM advises that all applicants may not be able to meet the required standards.
There was also some discussion among Councillors at the meeting last evening that more stringent action may be required if there appears to be significant numbers of establishments meeting requirements for "tobacco bar" designation.
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Barbara Nehiley
HRM Special Projects Advisor
(902) 490-4612
