Politics & Government

Toms River Bans Smoking Outside Town Hall

Designated smoking areas may be added

Those entering and exiting the township's municipal complex will no longer have to worry about breathing in any smoke along the way.

The township council – citing a goal of creating a "healthier atmosphere," as well as limiting people's exposure to secondhand smoke and discarded cigarettes littering the area – passed an ordinance Tuesday night that would prohibit smoking in the immediate vicinity of town hall in downtown Toms River.

According to the ordinance, smoking will be banned in the area encompassing town hall, as well as the township parking garage, including Wilsey Way. The smoking-prohibited area will run up to Washington Street Water Street to the south the Ocean County Library and Horner Street to the east and Robbins Street to the west.

Smoking will still be permitted on public sidewalks running along any private properties within the area, as well as within private properties.

The township also left the window open for up to three designated smoking areas within the boundaries of the ordinance. The smoking areas will be located at least 25 feet from town hall and will be outfitted with refuse disposal containers.

Those who violate the policy will be subject to a $100 fine on the first offense and $200 for subsequent offenses.


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