| Contact Details: |
Mike Jones Tel: 01380 733808 |
How will the new smokefree law be enforced?
Local councils will be responsible for enforcing the new law in England. In the run-up to 1st July, 2007, they will work closely with businesses to help ensure everyone understands what they need to do to comply with the new law. A telephone line (0800 587 166 7) will also be in operation from 1st July, 2007 to enable members of the public to report possible breaches of the law. This information will be passed to local councils to follow-up as appropriate.
What are the penalties?
Anyone who does not comply with the new smokefree law will be committing a criminal offence. The fixed penalty notices and maximum fine for each offence are set out below.
The fixed penalty notice includes information on the details of the offence and how payment is to be made. Anyone who receives a fixed penalty notice can choose to have the matter dealt with by a court. If a person does not pay a fixed penalty notice, the matter may also be referred to a court to be dealt with.
Offence | Who is Liable? | Fixed Penalty Notice (If Paid in 15 days) | Fixed Penalty Notice (If Paid in 29 days) | Court Awarded Fine |
Smoking in a smokefree place | Anyone who smokes in a smokefree place | £30 | £50 | Up to £200 |
Failing to display required no smoking signs | Anyone who manages or occupies the smokefree premises or vehicle | £150 | £200 | Up to £1,000 |
Failing to prevent smoking in a smokefree place | Anyone who manages or controls the smokefree premises or vehicle | N/A | N/A | Up to £2,500 |