The Belleview City Commission unanimously approved the first reading of Ordinance 2025-04 at its recent meeting, aiming to prohibit smoking and vaping in all city parks and recreational areas.
The proposed ordinance lays out a range of reasons for the ban, citing health concerns, secondhand smoke exposure, and litter caused by discarded cigarette butts and vape products. According to the ordinance, tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable death in the United States, and exposure to secondhand smoke and vaping aerosol is especially harmful to children and those with respiratory issues.
The measure also points to growing concerns about the environmental impact of tobacco waste. Studies referenced in the ordinance show that cigarette butts are among the most commonly found items in cleanup efforts around the world, and many smokers admit to littering.
Under the new rules, smoking and vaping would be prohibited in all areas designated for parks or recreation where children are known to gather. Signs will be posted at park entrances and popular spots as a reminder.
Those who violate the policy will first be asked to comply. If they refuse, they may be asked to leave or could face fines under the city’s existing littering laws.
The second and final reading of the ordinance is expected to take place at an upcoming commission meeting. If adopted, the policy would go into effect immediately, just in time for warmer weather and more park activity.
