Wake Forest bans smoking in parks, greenways

The town's Board of Commissioners recently approved the ban to curb exposure to secondhand smoke and reduce litter.

Posted 12:35 a.m. Sep 12, 2011 — Updated 12:35 a.m. Sep 12, 2011

Sarah Lindenfeld Hall

Just a quick note to share that the Wake Forest Board of Commissioners recently approved a smoking ban in all town parks and greenways, except in specifically designated areas.

Wake Forest joins a growing number of communities that have forbidden smoking in public parks. Raleigh banned smoking in parks earlier this year. The smoking ban in Wake Forest is designed to help curb exposure to secondhand smoke and reduce litter, according to a press release.

The ban takes place immediately and includes a possible $50 fine. Signs will be posted throughout the town’s parks and greenways informing visitors about the new ordinance.

According to the release: "Enforcement will take the form of requesting voluntary compliance. However, if a smoker does not extinguish a smoking product, park staff will remind them of the new policy and could request exiting the property if they choose to continue smoking."

Suggest A Correction