Smokefree ordinance in effect as of March 1st, 2023
Welcome to Smokefree Nashville, a resource hub for all things smokefree in Music City. On October 18th 2022, Mayor John Cooper signed BL2022-1383 into law, eliminating smoking from most 21+ establishments in Davidson County. This new ordinance goes into effect March 1st 2023. For those seeking information on this new law, we hope you’ll find all the answers you need here!
“Smoke-Free laws save lives. We hope other great cities in Tennessee will build on Nashville’s example so that we can make our state a healthier place to live and work.”
IN THE NEWS
PARTNERS IN HEALTH
RESOURCES
Below is a collection of infographics, signage, reports, and social media graphics that might be helpful for you or your business as you transition to smoke-free. Feel free to click on any image and download!
FAQ
Below is a list of frequently asked questions we’ve received from bar owners, employees, and patrons. If you don’t see your question listed here, submit one via the contact form, and we’ll be in touch to help in any way we can.
-
March 1st 2023
-
BL2022-1383 eliminates smoking and vaping inside age restricted (21+) venues. This primarily effects bars and music venues who require 21+ entry. There are a few exceptions, which are addressed in the next question.
-
A: No, this ordinance only applies inside an establishment. If the owner would like to make the outside patio/deck/etc smokefree, that is allowed under this law but is not required.
-
Yes, a few exemptions were made at both the state and local level. These include: “cigar bars”, “hookah bars”, “vapor bars”, “retail tobacco stores”, and “retail vapor stores”. These businesses were exempted because they earn significant portions of their income from the sale of products sold and consumed on site. Additionally, the products purchased on site are the only products permitted to be consumed on site. I.e. only cigars purchased at a cigar bar can be consumed at that cigar bar (not cigarettes). Curious what defines each exemption? A full list of definitions are available within the final ordinance and amendment language HERE.
-
Yes! Signage, window clings, and infographics are all available for free digitally via our Resources Page. If you would like some printed materials delivered to your business, simply submit a request via the contact form here, and the Metro Public Health Department will be in touch to coordinate!
-
Yes, per Metro code, a fine of $50 may be issued by the Metro Nashville Public Health Department. This fine may be assessed per person, per infraction, per day.
-
If you would like to report an infraction, we recommend doing so via the portal at HUB NASHVILLE. This report will make it’s way to the enforcement division of the Metro Public Health Department where they can investigate accordingly. That said, we always think reminding an owner of the new law and your desire as a customer/employee for a smoke-free environment is a very powerful first step as well!