Manhattan Beach : Council OKs Smoking Ban

The City Council unanimously approved an ordinance Tuesday that prohibits smoking in enclosed public places, including public meeting areas, movie theaters and supermarkets.

Under the ordinance, restaurants will be required to set aside non-smoking sections, although the size will be determined by restaurant owners.

The law also calls on employers to make “reasonable efforts” to provide smoke-free work areas for nonsmokers.

Neither restaurant owners nor employers will be compelled to make structural modifications to accommodate nonsmokers.

The fine for the first violation is $50, with a maximum $100 fine for the second violation within one year and a maximum $250 fine for each additional violation within the same year.

The ordinance does not affect hotel and motel conference rooms, bars and offices staffed exclusively by smokers.