France Bans Smoking in Public Spaces Where Children Are Present Starting July 1
France introduces a new smoking ban effective July 1, covering beaches, parks, schools, and more to protect children. Fines of up to €135 will apply to offenders.
Isaac Mintah 
France is set to enforce a sweeping new smoking ban on July 1, targeting public spaces where children are likely to be present, including beaches, parks, public gardens, schools, bus stops, and sports venues.
The announcement was made by Catherine Vautrin, France’s Minister for Health and Prevention, in an interview with Ouest-France. “Tobacco must disappear where there are children,” Vautrin stated, emphasizing the government's goal of safeguarding children from exposure to secondhand smoke.
“The freedom to smoke stops where children’s right to breathe clean air starts,” she added.
The new regulation also aims to stop students from smoking outside school premises. Violators will face fines of up to €135, according to the minister.
Exemptions and Limitations
Despite the tough stance, France’s iconic café terraces will be exempt from the ban, as will electronic cigarettes, which have seen a rapid increase in usage in recent years.
France already prohibits smoking in workplaces, airports, train stations, and children’s playgrounds, and over 1,500 cities and villages have independently introduced restrictions in parks, beaches, and ski resorts.
Public Support and Health Goals
Public opinion largely supports the move. A recent poll showed that 62% of French citizens back the idea of banning smoking in public spaces.
The new ban is part of France’s National Anti-Tobacco Programme 2023–2027, which aims to achieve a “tobacco-free generation” by 2032. Health advocates have long demanded broader action and criticized delays in implementing national legislation.
According to the World Health Organization, about 23% of France’s population smokes daily, a figure slightly above the 21% global average. An estimated 75,000 deaths annually in France are linked to tobacco use.
No New Taxes – For Now
While anti-smoking advocates have called for increased taxation on tobacco products, Vautrin confirmed that no new cigarette taxes are planned in the immediate future, citing concerns over the black market that surged following earlier tax hikes.
As France moves toward a stricter anti-smoking culture, the July 1 ban marks a significant step in protecting public health, especially among the younger population.
