Maine news, sports, weather from Portland Press Herald / Maine Sunday Telegram, Portland, Maine

March 6

Portland smoking ban taking effect today

By Randy Billings rbillings@mainetoday.com
Staff Writer

PORTLAND — Effective Wednesday, smoking will no longer be allowed in city parks, plazas and open spaces.

The ban is intended to protect people from second-hand smoke.

“Secondhand smoke is a dangerous toxin," Mayor Michael Brennan said in a written statement. "Whether it's children on a swing set or joggers circling the Back Cove or someone walking their dog along the Eastern Prom, we need to make sure we are doing everything we can to reduce the exposure to such a serious health hazard."

This is the third anti-smoking ordinance passed by the Portland City Council. Other bans include prohibitions on smoking where food is being served and within 25 feet of city-owned or maintained trails, beaches, athletic fields and playgrounds.

“These smoke-free ordinances are just another example of how the city of Portland is working to create a healthy and safe community for its residents,” Brennan said.

The city said in a news release that "No Smoking" signs are still being designed. Park rangers will be charged with informing the public about – and enforcing – the new ordinance. Violations can carry a fine of up to $50.

The city’s smoke-free parks include: Back Cove Park, Lobsterman Park, Baxter Woods, Longfellow Square, Bayside Park, Marginal Way Field, Bedford Park, Monument Square, Bell Buoy Park, Oatnuts Park, Belmeade Park, Payson Park, Boothby Square, Pleasant Street Park, Capisic Pond Park, Post Office Park, Congress Square, Presumpscot Park, Deering Oaks Park, Presumpscot River Preserve, Dougherty Field, Quarry Run Dog Park, Eastern Promenade, Riverton Park, Fessenden Park, Stroudwater Park, Fort Allen Park, Tommy’s Park, Fort Sumner Park, University Park, Ganley Plaza, Valley Street Dog Park, Harbor View Park, Western Promenade, Heseltine Park and Lincoln Park.

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