The Richland County Council approved a proposal on July 7 to expand its smoke-free regulations to include e-cigarettes and vaping devices. Passed unanimously in its first reading, the measure aims to protect the public from secondhand vapor and align county rules with neighboring Columbia and Forest Acres.
The ordinance requires two more votes to become law. Once enacted, it will mandate that all workplaces display visible "No Smoking" signs at their entrances. Violators of the ban will face a $25 fine, and infractions may be classified as a public nuisance.
Certain exemptions remain under the proposed rule, including:
- Private residences
- Designated smoking hotel rooms
- Specialty tobacco shops
- Religious ceremonies
- Authorized cigar or hookah lounges
Additionally, county officials are reviewing a separate measure to regulate vape shops. This proposal includes licensing requirements and a ban on new vape retailers opening within 1,000 feet of schools.
