Ohio Department of Health: Ohio’s Smoke Free Workplace Law

Changes to the smoking law, Revised Code 3794.01 and 3794.03, were enacted by the Ohio legislature on September 30, 2021. The definition of smoking was updated to include electronic smoking devices (e-cigarettes) and vapor products. This means that the individuals using e-cigarettes or vaping products can no longer use them inside. Restrictions on outside use are the same as other tobacco products.

Major Points of the law include:
1. No Smoking signs that include e-cigarettes/vaping products must be posted at all entrances/exits.
2. No Smoking inside which means no e-cigarette, vape, cigarette, cigar, hookah, or other allowed.
3. Remove all ashtrays from no smoking areas.
4. Like the exemption for a retail tobacco store, a new exemption for retail vapor stores may be requested. Additional information on eligibility and the process to apply for an exemption will be available at: https://odh.ohio.gov/know-our-programs/smoke-free-workplace-program/resources/exemptionsfromthesmokefreeworkplacelaw.

Signs for posting near entrances and exits can be downloaded or ordered from the Ohio Department of Health’s website at: http://ohionosmokelaw.gov or can be customized to include a local health department or management phone number in addition to the toll-free hotline number.

Report smoking law violations using a smart phone or tablet at http://smokecomplaint.ohio.gov, by email at nosmoke@odh.ohio.gov, or by phone at 1(866) 559-OHIO (6446).

To read the text of the smoking law, visit https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/chapter-3794.