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New smoking laws in outdoor dining areas to turn customers into snitches

http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/north-shore/new-smoking-laws-in-outdoor-dining-areas-to-turn-customers-into-snitches/story-fngr8h9d-1227410563433?nk=4a17044c8404afede5aa34fab4c90734-1435020248

Customers will be able to dob in a cafe or restaurant that allows smoking in outdoor areas. Source: News Corp Australia

Patrons will be able to dob in pubs or restaurants who don’t crack down on people smoking in outdoor dining areas.

Under the new laws that come into force on July 6 smoking will be banned in all seated outdoor dining areas while food is being served.

The legislation will apply to all ignited smoking products, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes and ­waterpipes.

Authorised inspectors from the Northern Sydney Local Health District and the health department will conduct random inspections of premises and also in ­response to complaints.

From July 6 smoking will be banned in outdoor dining areas in NSW Photo: Adam Yip Source: News Corp Australia

The public will also be able to report if venues aren’t complying with the new laws online or by calling a hotline. Inspectors will be able to issue on the spot fines of $300 for individuals, and penalties of up to $5500 for occupiers who ­ignore the ban.

“It is the responsibility of establishments to ensure, to the best of their ability, that patrons comply,” a Northern Sydney Local Health District spokeswoman said.

However, establishments will be notified if inspectors are going to be checking their premises and there may be a grace period.

“Patrons and venues are expected to comply with the legislation from July 6,” the spokeswoman said.

“However, NSW Health will take a fair and even handed approach to enforcement of the new smoking bans … with the aim of promoting good public health outcomes.”

Northern Sydney Local Health District’s environmental health manager Geoffrey Prendergast said the new laws were an extension of existing bans on smoking at public transport stops, children’s playgrounds and sporting fields.

“NSW Health is working closely with local businesses to help them get ready for smoke-free outdoor dining,” Mr Prendergast said.

Under the laws smoking will also be banned within four metres of a seated dining area on licensed premises, restaurant or cafe, and within 10 metres of a food fair stall.

Customers can dob in a venue at health.nsw.gov.au/smokefree or by calling the Tobacco Information Line on 1800 357 412.

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