Fans Irritated by Decision to Ban Smoking at Oakland Coliseum

A decision to ban smoking in outdoor seats at the Oakland Coliseum has rankled fans of the Oakland Athletics.

Andy Dolich, A’s vice president of business operations, said it will make the ballpark a better place to watch a game, but some fans say they should have the right to smoke during games.

“It’s an outdoor facility, people are on their leisure time,” Janet Weitz of Oakland said. “I mean, if people really think it’s going to harm them, let’s ban trucks on the freeway during A’s games.”

Dolich said starting next year anyone who lights up during an A’s game will receive a warning from an usher and a printed card detailing designated smoking areas around the stadium. Militant smokers will be subject to removal. There are no plans to apply the no-smoking policy during other Coliseum events, such as concerts.