Smoke Free Air Act - Information

The Smoke Free Air Act (SFAA) of 2002 helps keep New York City workers protected from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke. It makes almost all workplaces smoke-free. The New York State Clean Indoor Air Act (CIAA) of 2004 also limits smoking indoors.

These acts affect many places, including:

• Office buildings, factories and warehouses
• Private offices and previously designated "smoking lounges"
• Food service establishments, restaurants and catering halls
• Bars, including those in restaurants
• Membership associations
• Theatres
• Banks, educational and health care facilities, and child day care centers
• Shopping malls and retail stores
• Sports arenas, roller and ice skating rinks, billiard parlors, bingo halls, bowling establishments and other similar places
• Public transportation facilities, reception areas, platforms and waiting rooms

There are a few exceptions to this rule: these include tobacco bars, membership associations and tobacco promotional events if they meet certain qualifications. You can find more information about the Smoke Free Air Act of 2002 and the signs and policies needed for businesses to follow this law on the DOHMH website.

• Questions about smoking: Call 311 if you have any questions about smoking in businesses.
• Report a violation: Call 311 to report a violation without giving your name.
• Special permissions: Some places can get special permission to allow smoking. These places must follow certain requirements.
• Issuing authority: The Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) gives these special permissions on behalf of the City and State.
• More information: For more information about these permissions, visit the DOHMH website.
• Compliance: If you do not follow all relevant regulations, DOHMH may suspend your permits until you provide proof of compliance.