Lakelands Public Health Enforcing Smoke-Free Laws at Local Arenas and Recreational Centre Properties

(November 26th, 2025) – As winter approaches and local arenas are once again full of athletes, parents and fans alike, Lakelands Public Health is reminding residents and visitors that the Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017 (SFOA) prohibits smoking or vaping on or within 20 metres of all arena property, not just doors. Throughout the year, Tobacco Enforcement Officers (TEOs) from Lakelands Public Health enforce the SFOA throughout the region - with the change of the season, TEOs will be providing additional enforcement at arenas.

“Although the Smoke Free Ontario Act has been protecting people in public spaces for nearly 20 years, residents often benefit from a reminder,” said Richard Ovcharovich, Environmental Health Manager. "At Lakelands Public Health, our TEOs take a progressive enforcement approach to the SFOA. This means that Tobacco Enforcement Officers will provide warnings and then issue charges if the behaviour is not corrected.” Under the Smoke Free Ontario Act, the fine for smoking or vaping on arena property is $305."

“I spend time at arenas with my own kids and know that smoke and vape-free spaces are safer for everyone,” said Dr. Thomas Piggott, Medical Officer of Health and CEO. “While many Ontarians do not smoke or vape, second-hand smoke or vapour can put everyone at risk. Secondhand vapour contains several heavy metals and ultrafine particles that are dangerous to inhale, and there is no safe level of exposure to second-hand smoke. People entering arenas should not be exposed,” he added.

Smoke and vape-free spaces also create positive social norms which prevent youth from starting to smoke or vape in the first place. Among those who do smoke, nearly half report wanting to quit; smoke-free spaces have also been shown to help people with their quit attempts.

How to Report Smoking on Recreational Property
To report smoking on recreational property please speak to a Tobacco Control Officer by calling us at 1-844-575-4567. We accept and investigate anonymous complaints.

 For More Information

• Read the Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017, S.O. 2017 (Ministry of Ontario)
• Visit LakelandsPH.ca/Tobacco (Lakelands Public Health)