Spain moves to extend smoking ban to bar and restaurant terraces, including e-cigarettes

Spain is preparing to significantly expand its public smoking restrictions by banning smoking on bar and restaurant terraces, as well as in other outdoor public areas, Health Minister Mónica García announced Thursday.

The proposal includes not only traditional tobacco but also electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco devices.

In an interview with Cadena SER radio, García revealed that the government has finalized a draft bill to implement the ban, which must still undergo review by the Council of Ministers and approval in the Spanish Parliament’s lower house.

“We want to place Spain at the forefront of the fight against smoking,” García said, emphasizing the public health objective of the legislation.

Expanded Scope of the Ban

In addition to hospitality terraces, the proposed law would prohibit smoking in:

• School playgrounds
• University campuses
• Company vehicles
• Outdoor festive events
• Public transport shelters
   

The draft bill is part of a broader anti-smoking initiative launched by Spain’s left-wing coalition government more than a year ago. The initiative also includes increased support for smoking cessation programs and higher taxes on tobacco products and their alternatives.

EU-Wide Push Against Public Smoking

Spain’s move aligns with similar efforts in other European countries responding to the European Commission’s recommendation to extend smoking bans to more public spaces, including those involving e-cigarettes.

France announced in September 2024 that it was developing a nationwide ban on smoking in outdoor café terraces.

Italy has discussed similar legislation since 2023, though only Milan has enacted a local ban so far, with a pilot program proposed in Rome.

Beyond the EU, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed last year that his government was exploring stricter outdoor smoking regulations for pubs and restaurants to reduce preventable deaths.

Industry Pushback

While public health advocates have welcomed the initiative, critics argue the measures could be too restrictive and economically damaging. Small businesses, especially in the hospitality sector, warn they may lose customers if smoking is prohibited even in outdoor seating areas.

The legislation is expected to spark intense debate as it advances through Spain’s legislative process, but if passed, it would mark one of the most comprehensive smoking bans in Europe, further cementing Spain’s place in the EU’s collective effort to curb tobacco-related harm.

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