Under changes to the Smoke-free Environment Act 2000, smoking devices, including cigarettes, pipes and water pipes, are banned in seated outdoor dining areas while food is being served.

NSW Health inspectors have the power to issue on-the-spot fines of $300 for individuals and penalties of up to $5500 for business owners who ignore the ban.

Smoking has been banned in NSW outdoor public places, including all public transport stops and stations, within 10m of children’s playgrounds, at spectator areas of sporting grounds, at public swimming pools and within 4m of a pedestrian entrance to or exit from a public building, since 2013.

Health Minister Jillian Skinner said the new laws would further protect outdoor diners and staff from second-hand smoke. 

 “It is very pleasing that many businesses voluntarily banned smoking in their outdoor dining areas prior to today, with positive results,” Mrs Skinner said.

“When people are aware of the law, they generally comply and - judging by the high levels of compliance with existing smoking bans (98 per cent) - we expect high levels of compliance with smoke-free outdoor dining.”

Telephone the Tobacco Information Line on 1800 357 412 or visit www.health

.nsw.gov.au/smokefree  for more information on outside dining changes.

To quit smoking, visit www.iCanQuit.com.au.

For help ring the Quitline on 13 78 48.