France bans smoking in parks, beaches, bus stops from 1 July

France will impose its toughest outdoor smoking restrictions starting Monday, banning smoking at beaches, parks, playgrounds, and bus stops.

Starting 1 July, smoking will be prohibited in many outdoor public spaces across France, including beaches, parks, playgrounds, school entrances, and bus stops.

The new rules, published in the Official Journal on Saturday, marks France’s largest anti-smoking measure to date.

For now, no fines will be issued as the government begins with an awareness phase.

Health Minister Catherine Vautrin announced the policy earlier this year, stating, "Tobacco must disappear where there are children." She stressed that the right to smoke ends where children’s right to clean air begins.

The decree will later be supplemented by a health ministry order detailing restrictions for schools, libraries, sports facilities, and other venues serving minors.

This sweeping ban reflects a cultural shift for a country long associated with smoking icons like Brigitte Bardot and Jean-Paul Belmondo. Famous for turning cigarettes into cinematic symbols of rebellion and romance, France is now taking a firm stance on public health.

Though fines of up to € 135 ($160) are possible, the health ministry indicated that education and outreach will come first.

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