Our strategy is to reduce tobacco use
As part of a broad strategy to reduce tobacco use in B.C., Tobacco Control focuses on preventing the display, promotion, and sale of tobacco products to minors and protecting the public and employees from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke through enforcement of provincial legislation.
It is against the law to:
smoke in most fully or substantially enclosed public places and workplaces;
smoke within 3 metres of most public and workplace doorways and by open windows and air intakes;
display tobacco products anywhere where tobacco is sold if accessible to youth under 19;
advertise and promote tobacco using certain methods such as countertop displays, hanging advertisements and self-serve displays;
sell tobacco in public hospitals and health facilities, public universities and colleges, public athletic and recreational facilities, and provincial buildings; and
use tobacco in schools and on school grounds.
Have a complaint or concern?
If you have a health and safety concern or complaint about the sale of tobacco to minor children, please contact your local health protection office.
Tobacco enforcement officers regularly conduct inspections and compliance checks. If you see a retailer selling tobacco to a minor please report it to your local Tobacco Enforcement Officer.
For more information on fines, penalties, and clarification of regulatory requirements, contact your local Tobacco Enforcement Officer.
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