District of Columbia Clarification Amendment Act of 2006
The District of Columbia Clarification Amendment Act of 2006 prohibits smoking, including electronic smoking devices in most public places. Virtually all establishments and businesses with employees must be smoke-free. This includes work areas, employee lounges, restrooms, conference rooms, classrooms, employee cafeterias, hallways and vehicles owned by a private employer. Private residences are exempt unless used as a childcare, adult day care or health care facility.
Smoking is prohibited in all enclosed public places in the District of Columbia, including but not limited to the following:
• Banks
• Educational facilities
• Health care facilities
• Laundromats
• Public transportation facilities
• Reception areas
• Restaurants
• Retail food production and marketing establishments
• Retail service establishments
• Retail stores
• Shopping malls
• Sporting arenas
• Theaters
• Waiting rooms
Posting Requirements
“No Smoking” signs must be displayed in all places, elevators, and vehicles where smoking is prohibited. It is a violation for an employer, owner, manager, or person in authority to permit in prohibited areas or to fail to post “No Smoking” signs. Failure to post may result in a penalty of $500; and each day that the violation continues is a separate offense. The signs must include the following warning text: “Smoking causes lung cancer, heart disease, emphysema, and may cause fetal injury, premature birth, and low birth weight in pregnant women,” and clearly state the maximum fine for a violation of the law. (DC Code § 7-1704)