The city of Austin, TX Smoking Ordinance prohibits smoking in the enclosed areas of most public places and workplaces, and within 15 feet of an entrance or openable window of an enclosed area in which smoking is prohibited. The Ordinance also places affirmative obligations on employers to prevent smoking in the workplace.
Written Notice to Employees
The Ordinance requires employers to notify each employee and applicant for employment in writing that (1) smoking in the workplace is prohibited, or that (2) smoking is permitted in an area of the workplace, where allowed by law. Employers must make reasonable accommodations for employees who request assignment to a smoke-free area.
No Smoking Signs
Employers must also post “No Smoking” signs in areas of the workplace where smoking is prohibited and at each entrance to a public place or workplace. In addition, employers must remove ashtrays or other smoking accessories from any place where smoking is prohibited.
Some of the places where smoking is not prohibited include private residences, designated smoking hotel or motel rooms, retail tobacco stores, private nursing home rooms, fraternal clubs, specially permitted premises and golf courses.
Individuals can use the City’s online complaint form to report violations of the Ordinance. The law prohibits retaliation against a customer, employee, or applicant for reporting a violation. A violation is a misdemeanor offense and carries a fine of up to $2,000.
The City of Austin Texas No Smoking Poster is available from Compliance Poster Company in two sizes: 11” x 17” (Bilingual English/Spanish) and 11” x 8.5” (English).