The Georgia Smoking Permitted Poster informs patrons that smoking and vaping is permitted within the posted area. The applicable code section is cited at the bottom of the poster under the “Georgia Smoke-free Air Act” text.
The Georgia Smoke-free Air Act prohibits smoking and vaping in the majority of enclosed public places and enclosed places of employment. However, bars and restaurants may permit smoking and vaping 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. Hotels and motels may designate a guest room as a smoking room.
All businesses and public places must post signage designating the business as: 1) No smoking/Vaping, 2) Smoking/Vaping Is Allowed, or 3) Smoking/Vaping 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 and vaping must post a sign stating that smoking and vaping is permitted at every entrance (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.