Dallas City Council Approves Vaping Ordinance to Protect Public Health and Improve Air Quality

On December 11, 2024, the Dallas City Council approved a new ordinance aimed at enhancing air quality and safeguarding the health of residents by prohibiting vaping in places where smoking is already banned. The ordinance, which was proposed by City of Dallas Environmental Commission (EVC) and the Office of Environmental Quality and Sustainability (OEQS), amends the definition of “smoking” in the Dallas City Code to include the use of electronic smoking devices (vaping). This measure effectively bans vaping in all locations currently prohibited for smoking. The new ordinance will take effect on December 11, 2025, providing a one-year grace period for residents, business owners, and operators to come into compliance with the new rules. The ordinance mirrors existing restrictions on smoking in specific areas, including all indoor and enclosed spaces, within 15 feet of building entrances, and on park property. Importantly, this amendment does not add any new locations to the list of smoking and vaping restrictions. In addition, the amendment requires businesses, such as restaurants, hotels and fitness centers, to update their signage to clearly state that both smoking and the use of electronic smoking devices are prohibited. “I am proud to work alongside my fellow councilmembers, in partnership...