How is smoking in public punished?
Ms. Tran Thi Hien (Thanh Vinh Ward) asked: I often see many people still smoking in public places such as in train stations, even in hospital grounds... However, I rarely see anyone being reminded or punished. May I ask, according to current legal regulations, how is smoking in public places punished?
Reply:
Smoking in public places has long been a matter of concern as it not only affects the health of smokers but also harms those around them through secondhand smoke. In fact, smoking in cafes, restaurants, and public areas is still common, even somewhat public, despite current legal regulations.
According to Decree No. 117/2020/ND-CP dated September 28, 2020 of the Government, smoking in prohibited places will be subject to administrative penalties. Specifically, individuals who smoke in places with "No Smoking" signs may be warned or fined from VND 200,000 to VND 500,000. This is a direct penalty for those who violate regulations on prohibited smoking places.
Not only individuals, organizations and business establishments can also be fined if they do not properly fulfill their responsibilities in controlling smoking behavior in public places. In case there is no "No smoking" sign at the prohibited location, or if there is no organization to guide, inspect and supervise the implementation of the smoking ban in the area under their management, they can be fined from 3 million to 5 million VND.
In addition, if the designated smoking area does not meet the prescribed conditions — such as not having a separate room, not having an independent ventilation system, not being equipped with cigarette butt containers or fire prevention and fighting equipment — the facility owner can be fined from 5 million to 10 million VND.
