Boston to Ban All Smoking in Public Parks

Even e-cigarettes

Boston is poised to fine anyone who smokes in its parks, including those who light up cigarettes or joints or who puff on e-cigarettes.

City councilors yesterday approved the ban, which also would apply to other property controlled by the Parks and Recreation Commission, and includes a $250 fine for each violation.

"It passed unanimously on a voice vote," City Councilor Bill Linehan told the Herald.

Mayor Thomas M. Menino must sign the ordinance, and it must be adopted by the city Parks and Recreation Commission before it takes effect, said Nick Martin, spokesman for the Boston Health Commission.

That likely won't be a problem, as the ban was put forward by Menino, and Martin said the ordinance was crafted by his agency, the parks commission and police officials.

(Hat tip to DeadorInJail)