Smoke-Free Ontario Act (SFOA)

The Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017 (SFOA, 2017) regulates the smoking and vaping of tobacco, electronic cigarettes, and cannabis to protect the health of the public, prevent people from starting to smoke or vape, and support quit attempts.

To learn where smoking and vaping are prohibited in Ontario, check out www.ontario.ca/page/where-you-cant-smoke-or-vape-ontario

These are a few of the common problematic areas:

schools (including school yards and school busses)
hospitals and attached property
enclosed workplaces (including work vehicles)
enclosed public places

Signage

All workplaces and public places are required by law to post “No Smoking” and “No Vaping” signs at all entrances, exits, and washrooms of the smoke-free and vape-free areas. These signs are available at no cost. Signs can be ordered by calling 705.522.9200, ext. 398 (toll-free at 1.866.522.9200) Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For sample signs and more information from the Province of Ontario, please click here.

Retail training

A guide for retailers of tobacco or vaping products is available.

Enforcement

Inspectors under the Smoke-Free Ontario Act perform the following duties relating to tobacco and vaping products:

Display and promotion inspections at area retailers relating to sales of tobacco and vapour products
Youth access test inspections for vapes and tobacco sales at area retailers
General complaints and inquiries related to the SFOA Routine spot checks of prohibited locations for compliance
Investigations related to tobacco and vaping offences

To make a complaint (two options):

Contact Public Health Sudbury & Districts by calling 705.522.9200, ext. 464 (toll-free 1.866.522.9200).
Fill out and submit an online complaint form.

This item was last modified on June 27, 2024

Smoke-Free Ontario Act (SFOA)

Signage

Retail training

Enforcement

To make a complaint (two options):

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