Smoking and vaping are now banned in and around multiunit homes in Carlsbad after a city law went into effect Jan. 1.
The ordinance is the first of its kind in San Diego County and among more than 80 cities and counties statewide, according to the city. The goal of the law is to guard against exposures to smoking and vaping for residents living in such dwellings.
Specifically, smoking or vaping is prohibited in or near apartment buildings, condominiums and townhomes, senior and assisted living facilities, long-term health care facilities and single-family homes licensed as care facilities, the ordinance states. The law is privately enforced, meaning that landlords and other tenants could seek legal action against violators.
The City Council approved the ordinance 4-1 last July 30, with Mayor Keith Blackburn and Councilmembers Teresa Acosta, Priya Bhat-Patel and Carolyn Luna voting yes. (Luna’s seat is now occupied by Kevin Shin after the November election.) Councilmember Melanie Burkholder cast the dissenting vote.
Carlsbad has enacted smoking bans over the past two decades. In 2008, smoking was banned in public parks, trails and beaches. In 2012, the ban was extended to within 20 feet of outdoor dining areas.
Encinitas has a similar ban, enacted July 11, 2023. That city’s ordinance bans smoking and vaping in public spaces and places of employment, including restaurants and businesses. The activity is also prohibited within 20 feet of public places, except private residential properties.