Milan Enforces Italy's Toughest Smoking Ban in Public Spaces, Fines €40-€240 from 2025

Jan 1, 2025, 10:00 AM

Milan, Italy's financial and fashion capital, has implemented the country's strictest smoking ban, prohibiting smoking in all public spaces, including streets, effective from January 1, 2025. The ban, part of an air quality ordinance passed by the city council in 2020, allows smoking only in isolated areas where a distance of at least 10 meters from others can be maintained. Violators face fines ranging from €40 to €240. The measure aims to reduce air pollution and protect public health, particularly from passive smoking in areas frequented by children. The ban does not apply to e-cigarettes. Milan's initiative follows a series of restrictions that began in 2021, banning smoking in parks, playgrounds, bus stops, and sports facilities. The city's efforts are part of a broader strategy to improve air quality ahead of the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.