Milan, widely regarded as Italy’s fashion capital, has announced strict smoking regulations that are set to take effect in 2025.
According to ANSA, starting January 1, smoking will be banned in all outdoor areas of Milan, except in designated isolated spaces where individuals can maintain a distance of at least 32.8 feet from others. Notably, this ban does not apply to electronic cigarettes.
Violators of this ordinance will be fined between €40 (approximately $42) and €240 (approximately $254).
This initiative is part of the Air Quality Law, enacted by the Milan City Council in November 2020, aimed at reducing particulate matter and addressing climate change.
The restrictions began in 2021 when the city designated playgrounds, bus stops, and outdoor sports facilities as smoke-free zones.
Over the years, these limitations have gradually expanded, culminating in the declaration that all outdoor spaces, aside from specific isolated areas, are smoke-free.
Interestingly, this measure focuses on improving air quality rather than addressing public health concerns. According to the Italian Ministry of Health, roughly one-quarter of the country’s population is smokers.
Data showing that smoking accounts for 7% of fine particulate matter pollutants in the area informed the Milan City Council’s decision.
Milan is at the forefront of these comprehensive outdoor smoking restrictions in Italy. City officials hope the ban will significantly improve air quality in preparation for the 2026 Milan-Cortina d’Ampezzo Winter Olympics.
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