Smoking ban in public spaces

Smoking in virtually all enclosed public places in the country is against the law. Some commercial premises will provide a smoking shelter which must be at least 50% open to the outside air.

If you visit premises and observe someone smoking in an enclosed area, you may make a complaint to Environmental Health. They will inspect the property and discuss the issue with the person in control.

Report smoking in an enclosed area

If you run a business, you have a legal responsibility to:

  • prevent smoking in any enclosed or substantially enclosed area
  • display at least one legible ‘no smoking’ sign on your premises

All legally required signage can be obtained from Wallasey Town Hall free of charge.

Penalties

Offences

Fixed penalty
notice (if paid within
15 days)

Fixed penalty
notice (if paid
after 29 days)

Court awarded
fine
Smoking in a smoke-free place £30 £50 Up to £200
Failing to display the required ‘no smoking’ signs £150 £200 Up to £1000
Failing to prevent smoking in a smoke-free place N/A N/A Up to £2500

Smoking shelters

There is no requirement for managers to provide smoking shelters. However, if you are thinking of constructing or designating an area, guidance on this can be found in the smoking shelter leaflet.