Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Areas

Under Victoria's Tobacco Act 1987 (the Tobacco Act), smoking and the use of e-cigarettes (vapes) is prohibited in all enclosed workplaces and certain public spaces where members of the public gather.

This is because there may be exposure to second-hand tobacco smoke and the aerosol (vapour) from e-cigarettes. 

Smoke-free areas include:

• enclosed workplaces

• all outdoor dining areas when food is available for consumption

• outdoor drinking areas if any part of that area is within 4 metres of an outdoor dining area, unless separated by a wall of at least 2.1 metres high

• within 4 metres of entrances to children's indoor play centres, public hospitals and registered community health centres, and certain Victorian Government buildings

• on the grounds of, and within 4 metres of entrances to childcare centres, kindergartens, preschools, and primary and secondary schools

• at and within 10 metres of outdoor recreational areas, including playground equipment, skate parks and sporting venues during under-age sporting events

• in all outdoor areas situated within the perimeter of a public swimming pool complex

• patrolled beaches

• train stations, tram-stop platforms, tram and bus shelters, and on trains, trams and buses

• under-age music or dance events

For further information on smoking and vaping bans in public and outdoor spaces, please refer to the Department of Health's Smoke-free and vape-free areas page.

If you observe smoking or vaping in the areas mentioned above, you can make a report to Council to investigate. You will be required to provide:

• Name of premises (if known)
• Address of premises
• Description of your concerns, including date and time of occurrence
• Any other information you are able to provide.

Please lodge a service request, or submit a report to council@hrcc.vic.gov.au.