Long Beach Bans City Park Smoking
Long Beach City Council voted unanimously on Tuesday to ban smoking in city parks, joining 140 other California communities that have banned lighting up in public outdoor spaces.
The ordinance covers all parks in Long Beach, including sports fields and hiking trails, but exempts golf courses. Long Beach already prohibits smoking in restaurants, bars and beaches.
A $100 fine will be issued for first offense violations, $200 for the second offense and $500 for each ensuing violation.
The beach community plans to post temporary warning signs in parks, but a plan to erect permanent signage has been put on hold due to the $30,000 price tag for the signs.