It has been illegal to smoke in virtually all enclosed public places and workplaces in England since July 2007.
Responsibilities for smokefree premises
Employers, managers and those in charge of smokefree premises and vehicles have to:
- display no smoking signs in smokefree premises;
- take reasonable steps to ensure that staff, customers and visitors are aware that premises and vehicles are legally required to be smokefree;
- ensure that no one smokes in smokefree premises or vehicles.
Exemptions
Only a few specific types of premises are exempt from the ban but this does not include pubs, private members’ clubs, restaurants or offices. A system of fines has been introduced for people breaking the law and officers from the Council’s Occupational Health and Safety team are enforcing the ban.
Reporting smokefree violations
What if I see someone breaking the law?
If you believe someone is breaking the law by smoking in smokefree premises or a smokefree vehicle, we suggest you let a member of staff know as soon as possible so the incident can be dealt with quickly.
For premises within the Borough of Ipswich, you can report incidents to our customer service team on 01473 432000 or use the online contact form Contact us online | ipswich.gov.uk to report this.
Other sources of advice and information
Information and services to help people stop smoking are available from:
If you are in charge of smokefree premises and intend to provide a smoking shelter for your employees or customers, you may need planning permission so please check with our Town Planning team. See Applying for planning permission.
For advice on dealing with litter and waste disposal contact the Cleaner Ipswich Hotline.