As a measure to protect and preserve the health, safety, and welfare of Gwinnett residents, the Board of Commissioners approved a Smoke-free Air Ordinance during the May 24 public hearing.

The ordinance replaces Article V of Chapter 38 in the Code of Ordinances of Gwinnett County entitled Clean Indoor Air and will become effective June 23, 2022.

In 2005, the Board of Commissioners adopted the Clean Indoor Air Ordinance to protect public health and welfare by prohibiting smoking in most public places and private places of employment. Since then, public awareness of the harms of smoking and second-hand smoke has increased, and the smoking industry has seen changes with the development and increased use of e-cigarettes and vaping.

In Georgia, tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of death, and more than 11,700 adults die from smoking-related illness each year.

The Board also approved an amendment to the Unified Development Ordinance that is effective immediately. The ordinance now addresses cigar bars in the same manner as hookah lounges and includes definitions related to each.

For questions regarding the Smoke-free Air Ordinance or the amendment to the Unified Development Ordinance, contact PND@GwinnettCounty.com.