SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO AM) Sioux Falls outdoor smoking ban on public property started Friday.
The ban is not as strong as the City Health Department wanted, but they'll see how it goes and perhaps ask City Council for a tougher ban in the future.
"...Get through the summer events and some of the activities outside and we have a chance to look at how things are working, that's just a conversation we will continue to have with Council," says City Public Health Prevention Coordinator Mary Michaels.
The ordinance prohibits the use of any tobacco products, including electronic smoking devices, on City-owned property when youth activities take place.
No smoking is allowed within 25 feet of the entrances of all city-owned buildings.
Smoking is severely restricted at city golf courses.
The Sanford Premier Center and other properties leased from the city are allowed to have designated outdoor smoking areas.
During the months of debate after the Health Department first brought the proposed ban to Council, some residents groused that it was another example of government sticking its nose in where its not needed. Michaels disagrees.
"We feel like that the health and safety of our residents and our visitors is a role for city government. It is a priority for the city." says Michaels.
But Council decided not to go as far as health officials wanted. For example, there are no fines for disobeying the ban.