The Georgia Smoking Permitted 18+ Poster informs patrons that smoking is allowed inside the posted area, but persons under the age of 18 are not allowed to enter. The applicable code section is cited at the bottom of the poster under the Georgia Smokefree Air Act of 2005.
The Georgia Smokefree Air Act of 2005 prohibits smoking in the majority of enclosed public places and enclosed places of employment. However, bars and restaurants may permit smoking if access is denied to persons under 18, or in an enclosed area with a separate air handling system. Retail tobacco stores may permit smoking if smoke does not infiltrate non-smoking areas. Employers may designate a smoking area within the workplace in an enclosed non-work area with a separate air handling system.
The proprietor of a public place may designate a smoking space in an enclosed area by conspicuously posting the Georgia Smoking Permitted 18+ Poster at all entrances or in a position clearly visible on entry. A private residence is not required to comply with this provision unless such residence is used as a licensed child care, adult day care or health care facility.
All businesses and public places must post signage designating the business as: 1) No smoking, 2) Smoking Is Allowed, 3) Smoking Is Allowed, No One Under the Age of 18 Permitted. All businesses and public places applying for a business license with the State must designate the smoking status of the business on the application and inform the public upon opening with the appropriate signage.
Posting Requirement
In order to qualify for exempt status from the general prohibition, any area in which the proprietor wishes to allow smoking shall post conspicuously at every entrance a sign stating that smoking is permitted. (O.C.G.A. § 31-12A-6) The words shall not be less than 1.5 inches in height. All signs must have the code section, O.C.G.A. 31-12A-1 et seq.
Violations of the Georgia Smokefree Air Act may result in investigation and fines through the process of injunctive relief. The amount of the fine will be determined by the court.