TOBACCO CONTROL AND PREVENTION

The Smoke-free Illinois Act (410 ILCS 82; Public Act 095-0017) is a comprehensive tobacco control law that took effect in Illinois on January 1, 2008, banning smoking in virtually all buildings and transportation used by the general public, owned by the government or public body, or used as a place of employment. These places may include but are not limited to restaurants, bars, offices, hospitals, reception areas, common areas of multi-housing units, and no less than 75 percent of hotel or motel sleeping quarters rented to guests. In addition to prohibiting smoking in these areas, SFIA also prohibits smoking within 15 feet of entrances, exits, windows that open, and ventilation intakes of employment or public places. Businesses must also display “No Smoking” signs or the international “No Smoking” symbol. These signs must be clearly placed in easily noticed areas for each public place where smoking is prohibited.

Fines for individuals who smoke in prohibited areas are $100 for the first offense and $250 for subsequent offenses. Individuals who control or operate the public place or place of employment such as managers, owners, and other staff who allow smoking in prohibited areas may be fined $250 for the first offense, $500 for the second, and $2500 for subsequent violations. It should be noted that each day an area is found to be in violation is a separate violation.

What about e-cigarettes or vapes?delivery systems (ENDS) are not covered by the Smoke-Free Illinois Act directly, however many communities and businesses have chosen to expand their local policies to prohibit them. The Will County Health Department has FREE window decals and other signage to communicate to the public that there is no smoking in your place of business. Guidance may also be provided to those who wish to ban e-cigarettes in their business or organization.

For more information or to order signage call 815-727-8769 or click here.