HomeMy WebLinkAboutStaff Report 6373
City of Palo Alto (ID # 6373)
City Council Staff Report
Report Type: Consent Calendar Meeting Date: 1/11/2016
City of Palo Alto Page 1
Summary Title: Smoking Ordinance Revision
Title: Policy and Services Committee Recommendation to Council for
Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Chapter 9.14 (Smoking And Tobacco
Regulations) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Include E-Cigarettes, Change
Signage Language, and Include Additional Enforcement Options
From: City Manager
Lead Department: Public Works
Recommendation
The Policy and Services Committee recommends that Council: Adopt an
ordinance to amend Chapter 9.14 (Smoking and Tobacco Regulations) of the Palo
Alto Municipal Code, to include E-cigarettes in existing smoking restrictions,
change signage language and include additional enforcement options
(Attachment A).
Background
On November 10, 2015, the Policy and Services Committee discussed adopting
changes to the City’s Smoking Ordinance that include the addition of E-cigarettes,
changing signage language and providing additional options for enforcement of
the City’s Smoking ordinance (ID #6215).
Discussion
The Policy and Services Committee unanimously recommended the City Council
approve an ordinance to amend Chapter 9.14 (Smoking and Tobacco Regulations)
of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to include E-cigarettes in existing smoking
restrictions, change signage language and include additional enforcement options
(Attachment A). The Policy and Services Committee staff report and minutes are
included in this packet (Attachment B and C).
City of Palo Alto Page 2
Policy and Services requested that staff return to the committee to further discuss
restricting smoking in multi-family dwellings as well as tobacco retailer licensing.
Policy Implications
The adoption of the proposed ordinance would further Comprehensive Plan
polices: N-5: Clean, Healthful Air for Palo Alto; and N-6: An Environment Free of
the Damaging Effects of Biological and Chemical Hazardous Materials.
In addition, this effort is consistent with Council’s adopted four priorities that will
"receive particular, unusual and significant attention during the year," including
“Healthy City, Healthy Community.”
Resource Impact
This ordinance will have resource impacts on City staff time and financial
resources depending on the level of enforcement and/or outreach required by its
implementation. The Police Department currently has minimal resources to
conduct additional enforcement efforts. Educational materials and signage costs
will be paid with grant funding from the Santa Clara County Public Health
Department and other public and private agencies.
Environmental Review
Provisions of this ordinance do not constitute a project under the Environmental
Quality Act because it can be seen with certainty that no significant negative
environmental impact will occur as a result of the amended ordinance.
Attachments:
Attachment A - Amended Smoking Ordinance (PDF)
Attachment B Policy and Services Minutes (DOCX)
Attachment C ID 6215 Smoking Ordinance Revision (PDF)
ATTACHMENT A
*NOT YET APPROVED*
Ordinance No. ______
Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending
Chapter 9.14 (Smoking and Tobacco Regulations) of the Palo Alto
Municipal Code to Establish New Smoking Restrictions to Include
E-Cigarettes, Change Signage Language, and Include Additional
Enforcement Options
The Council of the City of Palo Alto does ORDAIN as follows:
SECTION 1. Findings and Declarations. The City Council finds and declares as follows:
(a) That the adoption of this Ordinance is necessary to protect the public health,
safety and welfare for the reasons set forth in amended section 9.14.005. The purposes of this
Ordinance are to ban smoking in commercial areas, all dining areas, and worksite in order to
reduce the risks of second hand smoke and vapor, reduce litter, and enhance enjoyment of
these areas.
SECTION 2. Chapter 9.14 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as
follows:
Palo Alto Municipal Code Chapter 9.14: Smoking and Tobacco Regulations
9.14.005 Purpose.
The purpose of this Chapter is to:
(a) Protect the public health, safety and general welfare by prohibiting smoking and
use of electronic smoking devices in public parks, public places, service locations, city pool cars,
child day care facilities, and unenclosed eating establishments.
(b) Ensure a cleaner and more hygienic environment within the city, reduce litter,
and protect the City's natural resources, including creeks and streams.
(c) Enhance the welfare of residents, workers, and visitors by reducing exposure to
second hand smoke, which studies confirm can cause negative health effects in non-smokers.
(d) Balance the needs of persons who smoke with the needs of nonsmokers,
including children and youth, to be free from the discomforts and health threats created by
exposure to second-hand smoke and vapor.
9.14.010 Definitions.
The following words and phrases, whenever used in this chapter shall be construed as defined
in this section:
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ATTACHMENT A
*NOT YET APPROVED*
(a) "Bar" means an area which is devoted to serving alcoholic beverages and in
which serving food is only incidental to the consumption of such beverages. "Bar" shall include
bar areas within eating establishments which are devoted to serving alcoholic beverages and in
which serving food is only incidental to the consumption of such beverages.
(b) ”City pool car" means any truck, van or automobile owned by the city and
operated by a city employee. City pool car does not include vehicles operated by the police
department.
(c) “Commercial Area” means an area, including all publicly owned sidewalks, alleys,
parking areas, public places, outdoor dining areas, service areas, etc. within areas zoned in the
City’s Comprehensive Plan as regional/community commercial (including Downtown, California
Avenue Business District, Town and Country, and Stanford Shopping Center) and Neighborhood
Commercial.
(d) "Eating establishment" means a coffee shop, cafeteria, short-order café,
luncheonette, sandwich shop, soda fountain, restaurant, or other establishment serving food to
members of the public.
(e) “Electronic smoking device” means an electronic and/or battery-operated device
that can deliver an inhalable dose of nicotine to the user. “Electronic smoking device” includes
any product meeting this definition, regardless of whether it is manufactured, distributed,
marketed or sold as an electronic cigarette, electronic cigar, electronic cigarillo, electronic pipe,
electronic hookah, electronic vape, vaporizer or any other product name or descriptor.
(ef) "Employee" means any person who is employed by any employer in
consideration for direct or indirect monetary wages or profit.
(fg) "Employee eating place" means any place serving as an employee cafeteria,
lunchrooms, lounge, or like place.
(gh) "Employer" means any person who employs the services of an individual person
or persons.
(hi) "Enclosed" means either closed in by a roof and four walls with appropriate
openings for ingress and egress or not open to the sky due to a cover or shelter consisting of a
tarpaulin, tent structure or other impermeable or semi-permeable materials or fabric.
(ji) "Motion picture theater" means any theater engaged in the business of
exhibiting motion pictures.
(kj) “Public Event” means events open to the general public, including but not
limited to a farmers’ market, parade, craft fair, festival, or any other such event.
(kl) "Public places" means enclosed areas within publicly and privately owned
buildings, structures, facilities, or complexes that are open to, used by, or accessible to the
general public. Public places include, but are not limited to, stores, banks, eating
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ATTACHMENT A
*NOT YET APPROVED*
establishments, bars, hotels, motels, depots and transit terminals, theaters and auditoriums,
enclosed sports arenas, convention centers, museums, galleries, polling places, hospitals and
other health care facilities of any kind (including clinics, dental, chiropractic, or physical therapy
facilities), automotive service centers, general business offices, nonprofit entity offices and
libraries. Public places further include, but are not limited to, hallways, restrooms, stairways,
escalators, elevators, lobbies, reception areas, waiting rooms, indoor service lines, checkout
stations, counters and other pay stations, classrooms, meeting or conference rooms, lecture
rooms, buses, or other enclosed places that are open to, used by, or accessible to the general
public.
(ml) "Service locations" means those enclosed or unenclosed areas open to, used by,
or accessible to the general public that are listed below:
(1) Bus, train and taxi shelters;
(2) Service waiting areas including, but not limited to, ticket or service lines, public
transportation waiting areas, and public telephones;
(3) Areas within twenty-five feet of the entrance or exit to an enclosed public place,
where smoking is prohibited;
(4) Areas in dedicated parks or other publicly accessible areas that are within
twenty-five feet of bleachers, backstops, or play structures.
(nm) "Smoking" means the combustion of any cigar, cigarette, tobacco or any similar
article.
(on) "Tobacco product" means any substance containing tobacco leaf, including but
not limited to cigarettes, cigars, smoking tobacco, and smokeless tobacco.
(po) "Tobacco store" means a retail store utilized primarily for the sale of tobacco
products and accessories and in which the sale of other products is incidental.
(qp) "Tobacco vending machine" means any electronic or mechanical device or
appliance the operation of which-depends upon the insertion of money, whether coin or paper
bill, or other thing representative of value, which dispenses or releases a tobacco product
and/or tobacco accessories.
(r) “Vapor” means aerosol produced from use of an electronic smoking device.
(sq) "Workplace" means any enclosed area of a structure or portion thereof used as a
place of employment as well as unenclosed workplaces, such as outdoor construction sites.
9.14.020 Smoking prohibited - Enclosed Places.
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ATTACHMENT A
*NOT YET APPROVED*
Smoking and the use of electronic smoking devices is prohibited in the Enclosed Areas of the
following places within the City of Palo Alto, except in places subject to prohibition on smoking
contained in Labor Code section 6404.5, in which case that law applies
(1) Workplaces;
(2) Public places;
Any places exempted by the California smoke free workplace law (Labor Code Section
6404.5(d)) are not exempt under this chapter. Smoking is prohibited by this chapter in all places
exempted by that State law, except as provided in 9.14.070.
9.14.025 Smoking prohibited - Unenclosed Areas.
(a) Smoking and the use of electronic smoking devices in all unenclosed areas
defined as Service Locations shall be prohibited, including a buffer zone within 25 feet from any
doorway, window, opening, crack, or vent into an Enclosed Area in which Smoking is
prohibited, except while the Person Smoking is actively passing on the way to another
destination and provided Smoke does not enter any Enclosed Area in which Smoking is
prohibited.
(b) Smoking and the use of electronic smoking devices is prohibited in unenclosed
eating establishments and bars.
9.14.030 Smoking prohibited - City pool cars.
Smoking and the use of electronic smoking devices is prohibited in all city pool cars.
9.14.035 Smoking Prohibited - Public Parks and Public Events.
Smoking and the use of electronic smoking devices is prohibited in all parks, including at public
events.
9.14.040 Smoking prohibited - Child day care facilities.
Smoking is prohibited in a private residence which is licensed as a child day care facility within
the meaning of Health and Safety Code Section 1596.750 and Section 1596.795 and
amendments.
9.14.050 Smoking prohibited – Commercial Areas and Public Events.
Smoking and the use of electronic smoking devices is prohibited in commercial areas, except
places where smoking is already prohibited by state or federal law, in which case those laws
apply. This prohibition includes public events held on public streets. A shopping center or
commercial areas may establish a designated smoking area that is at least 25 feet away from
any openings and includes receptacles to control litter.
9.14.060 Reserved.*
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ATTACHMENT A
*NOT YET APPROVED*
* Editor's Note: Former Section 9.14.060, Regulation of Smoking in the Workplace, previously
codified herein and containing portions of Ordinance Nos. 4056 and 4164 was repealed in its
entirety by Ordinance No. 4294.
9.14.070 Exemptions.
The following places and workplaces are exempt from Section 9.14.020:
(a) Smoking at theatrical production sites is not prohibited by this subsection if the
theater general manager certifies that smoking is an essential part of the story and the use of a
fake, prop, or special effect cannot reasonably convey the idea of smoking in an effective way
to a reasonable member of the anticipated audience. This exception will not apply if minors are
performers within the production.
(b) Bingo games, consistent with prohibition on smoking contained in Labor Code
section 6404.5 and licensed pursuant to the Palo Alto Municipal Code, which do not permit
access by minors under eighteen years of age
(c) A fully enclosed room in a hotel, motel, other transient lodging establishment
similar to a hotel, motel, or public convention center which is being used entirely for a private
function and which is not open to the general public, except while food or beverage functions
are taking place, including setup, service, and cleanup activities, or when the room is being
used for exhibit purposes, and except for sixty-five percent of the guest rooms in a hotel, motel,
or similar transient lodging establishment;
(d) Tobacco stores with private smokers' lounges meeting the requirements of the
applicable portions of subdivision (d)(4) of Labor Code Section 6404.5.
9.14.80 Location of tobacco vending machines.
(a) No person shall locate, install, keep or maintain a tobacco vending machine
except in a place which under state law is not lawfully accessible to minors.
(b) This section shall become effective ninety days after its enactment. Any tobacco
vending machine not in conformance with this section upon its effective date shall be removed.
9.14.090 Display of tobacco products for sale.
No person shall display or offer tobacco products for sale except in an area, or from within an
enclosure, which physically precludes the removal of the tobacco products without the
assistance of the person authorizing such display or offer, or an employee of such person.
(Ord. 4056 § 4 (part), 1991)
9.14.100 Posting of signs required.
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ATTACHMENT A
*NOT YET APPROVED*
With the exception of service locations, wherever this ordinance prohibits smoking and the use
of electronic smoking devices, conspicuous signs shall be posted so stating, containing all
capital lettering not less than one inch in height, on a contrasting background. Signs of similar
size containing the international "no smoking" symbol consisting of a pictorial representation of
a burning cigarette and electronic smoking device enclosed in a red circle with a red bar across
it may be used in addition to or in lieu of any signs required hereunder. Such signs shall be
placed by the owner, operator, manager, or other persons having control of such room,
building, or other place where smoking and the use of electronic smoking devices is prohibited.
Signs placed at each entrance of buildings in which smoking is totally prohibited shall be
sufficient. The absence of signs shall not be a defense to a violation of any provision of this
chapter.
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9.14.110 Enforcement.
Pursuant to Section 6 of Article IV of the Palo Alto City Charter, the city manager is hereby
granted authority to enforce the provisions of this chapter and Labor Code Section 6404.5.
9.14.120 Public nuisance.
Any violation of this chapter is a public nuisance and may be abated in accordance with Chapter
9.56 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code and/or Code of Civil Procedure Section 731.
9.14.130 Violations to be misdemeanors.
Violation of any provision of this chapter shall be a misdemeanor punishable as provided in this
code. Violations shall be punishable by any of the following: warning, administrative citation,
infraction, or misdemeanor. Violations shall also be punishable by the following fines:
(1) A fine not exceeding $250 for the first violation;
(2) A fine not exceeding $300 for the second violation;
(3) A fine not exceeding $500 for each additional violation within one year.
SECTION 3. Severability. If any provision, clause, sentence or paragraph of this
ordinance, or the application to any person or circumstances, shall be held invalid, such
invalidity shall not affect the other provisions of this Ordinance which can be given effect
without the invalid provision or application and, to this end, the provisions of this Ordinance
are hereby declared to be severable.
SECTION 4. The Council finds that this project is exempt from the provisions of the
California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”), pursuant to Section 15061 of the CEQA
Guidelines, because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the ordinance
will have a significant effect on the environment.
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ATTACHMENT A
*NOT YET APPROVED*
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SECTION 5. This ordinance shall be effective on the thirty-first day after the date of its
adoption.
INTRODUCED:
PASSED:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTENTIONS:
ATTEST:
____________________________ ____________________________
City Clerk Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED:
____________________________ ____________________________
Assistant City Attorney City Manager
____________________________
Director of Public Works
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Attachment B
Policy and Services November 10, 2015
Action Minutes (Draft)
3. Provide Direction Regarding Expanding Smoking Ordinance to Include
E-Cigarettes, Change Signage Language, and Include Additional
Enforcement Options, Restrict Sales of Tobacco, Direct Staff to Draft
Changes to Include Smoking Restrictions for Multi-Family Buildings,
and Direct Staff to Support Increasing the Age for Tobacco Sales.
MOTION: Council Member Berman moved, seconded by Council Member
Wolbach to recommend the City Council adopt changes to the City’s
Smoking Ordinance to include the addition of Electronic Cigarettes, changing
signage language and to provide an additional option for enforcement of the
City’s Smoking Ordinance.
MOTION PASSED: 4-0
MOTION: Chair Burt moved, seconded by Council Member Berman to direct
Staff to continue discussions with Santa Clara County on regulatory mechanisms related to retail sale of
tobacco, including preventing new tobacco retailers from locating near schools.
Council Member Berman: 2nd option for staff to reevaluate
MOTION PASSED: 4-0
MOTION: Council Member Wolbach moved, seconded by Council Member
Berman to recommend the City Council direct Staff to expand the Ordinance
to multifamily housing indoor balconies and with allowances of designated
area outdoors with property owner discretion.
AMENDMENT: Chair Burt moved, seconded by Council Member Berman to
add to the Motion, “with an evaluation of circumstances where stand-alone
units could be smoking only exemptions.”
AMENDMENT PASSED: 3-1 Wolbach no
MOTION AS AMENDED PASSED: 4-0
MOTION: Chair Burt moved, seconded by Council Member DuBois to
recommend the City Council direct Staff to support legislative efforts to raise
the legal age to purchase tobacco from 18 to 21 years of age.
MOTION FAILED: 2-2 Burt, DuBois yes
MOTION: Chair Burt moved, seconded by Council Member DuBois to
request Staff draft Ordinance language to restrict local sales of tobacco to 21
years old or older with Staff determining whether there are sub-issues to be
received by the Committee or if not, for the Ordinance to go directly to
the City Council.
SUBSTITUTE MOTION: Council Member Berman moved, seconded by
Council Member XX to recommend the City Council direct Staff to draft an
Ordinance prohibiting the sale of tobacco in its entirety within Palo Alto City
limits.
SUBSTITUTE MOTION FAILED DUE TO LACK OF SECOND
MOTION FAILED: 2-2 Burt, DuBois yes
City of Palo Alto (ID # 6215)
Policy and Services Committee Staff Report
Report Type: Agenda Items Meeting Date: 11/10/2015
City of Palo Alto Page 1
Summary Title: Smoking Ordinance Revision
Title: Provide Direction Regarding Expanding Smoking Ordinance to include
E-Cigarettes, Change Signage Language, and Include Additional Enforcement
Options, Restrict Sales of Tobacco, Direct Staff to Draft Changes to Include
Smoking Restrictions for Multi-Family Buildings, and Direct Staff to Support
Increasing the Age for Tobacco Sales
From: City Manager
Lead Department: Public Works
Recommendation
Staff requests that the Policy and Services Committee:
1.Recommend that Council adopt changes (Attachment A) to the City’s Smoking
Ordinance that include addition of Electronic Cigarettes, changing signage
language and providing an additional option for enforcement of the City’s
smoking ordinance;
2.Direct staff to continue discussions with the County on regulatory mechanisms
related to retail sale of tobacco, including ensuring new tobacco retailers are
prevented from locating near schools;
3.Direct staff to draft changes to the municipal code to expand the smoking
ordinance to multi-family housing common areas; and
4.Direct staff to support legislative efforts to raise the legal age to purchase
tobacco from 18 to 21 years of age.
Attachment A
City of Palo Alto Page 2
Background
City Council adopted an ordinance on December 15, 2014 (ID #5302) to expand
smoking restrictions to outdoor commercial areas, outdoor dining areas, public
events, work sites and service locations; include penalty escalation for repeat
offenders; require cigarette butt receptacles and signage immediately adjacent
and within areas covered by the ban. As part of adoption of the ordinance,
Council referred further investigation of tobacco retailer licensing and indoor
smoking restrictions at multi-family housing, as well as inclusion of e-cigarettes in
the City’s smoking restrictions, to Policy and Services Committee for further
consideration and action.
Policy and Services Committee discussed these issues on May 12, 2015 (ID #5696)
and moved:
1. Staff to draft an ordinance making e-cigarettes subject to the same regulations
as the current smoking ordinance;
2. Staff to enact a tobacco retail license program and return to City Council for
review and approval;
3. To continue recommendation on multi-family ban to a date uncertain and for
staff to return to Policy and Services Committee with further information
regarding:
a. Engineered protections to prevent migration of carcinogens, such as
exhaust systems for venting through roof lines;
b. Cleaning processes to convert residential units from smoking (tobacco and
e-cigarette) to non-smoking, and how potentially harmful materials are
transferred and in what amounts do they become dangerous;
c. Benchmarking with other multi-family ordinances and how they allow
smoking (partial units, designated smoking areas, condo exemption
process, disclosure process, etc.); and
d. Possible legal contradiction with medical marijuana law.
City of Palo Alto Page 3
According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cigarette smoking is the
single most preventable cause of premature death in the United States. Cigarette
waste is also a significant source of litter.
Discussion
Following is a discussion on staff’s four recommendations:
1. Draft Ordinance
In addition to inclusion of electronic cigarettes, the draft ordinance includes
changes to signage language to remove current restrictions on letter sizes and
add an additional enforcement tool (i.e. administrative penalties) to the
smoking ordinance. Based on current implementation of the ordinance, these
changes to the signage and enforcement language will improve
implementation and enforcement. In addition, the current ordinance specifies
no smoking in city “pool” cars, rather than all city vehicles. A minor change
was made to have the ordinance apply to all city vehicles.
2. Tobacco Retailer Licensing
The initial direction to staff was to research banning the sale of tobacco
products in pharmacies. One approach to accomplish this ban is to adopt a
tobacco retailer licensing program, which has the added benefit of better
controlling tobacco sales to minors. Discussion at the May 2015 meeting
resulted in the committee directing staff to implement a licensing program.
Staff coordinated with the various departments needed to implement the
program and learned existing staff levels could not accommodate the
administrative burden of such a program. Two alternative approaches were
developed:
a. Continue discussions with County of Santa Clara Public Health Department
to potentially outsource a program to the county with the City performing
enforcement as needed.
San Mateo County Department of Public Health administers tobacco
retailer licensing programs for cities in San Mateo County. Staff is
currently in discussions with Santa Clara County Public Health
Department to develop a similar program. Such an effort would still
City of Palo Alto Page 4
require the City to pass a retailer licensing ordinance, however it would
be administered by the County.
b. Include restrictions on tobacco sales in the zoning code rather than
implementing a licensing program. This could include language to cap the
existing number of tobacco retailers, prohibit sales in pharmacies and/or
prohibit any new retailers from locating within a specified distance,
typically 1,000 feet, of a school, youth center or park or requiring a
conditional use permit.
Although some cities have utilized land use zoning to restrict tobacco
retailers, the vast majority of cities imposing restrictions are using
tobacco retailer licensing. A zoning approach typically utilizes one of two
approaches:
i. Changes to the zoning code that restrict tobacco sales in certain
zoning designations and/or restricting the proximity of tobacco
retailers to schools or each other. The use of zoning in this manner is
only used by eight cities in California.
ii. Requiring potential tobacco retailers to seek a conditional use permit
in particular zoning designations; this allows for an individualized
determination about the appropriateness of such an activity in a
particular location. Twenty cities in California use this method.
While use of the zoning code is an option to consider, it is not used by the
majority of municipalities that adopted programming to regulate sales and
would result in some of the same resource and staffing concerns as a City-
run tobacco retailer licensing program. Any changes to zoning will also
require staff time to draft and navigate the City’s approval process, possibly
extending the process.
3. Multi-Family Smoking Restrictions
Policy and Services requested additional information on engineering
protections, including venting and cleaning processes needed to convert a
smoking unit to a non-smoking unit. The overall concern is exposure to
Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS). Limited information is available to
City of Palo Alto Page 5
answer the committee’s questions.1 The American Society of Heating,
Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) concluded:
It is the consensus of the medical community and its cognizant authorities
that ETS is a health risk, causing lung cancer and heart disease in adults and
exacerbation of asthma, lower respiratory illnesses and other adverse
effects on the respiratory health of children;
At present, the only means of effectively eliminating health risks associated
with indoor exposure is to ban smoking activity; and
Although complete separation and isolation of smoking rooms can control
ETS exposure in non-smoking spaces in the same building, adverse health
effects for the occupants of the smoking room cannot be controlled by
ventilation.
In 2006, the U.S. Surgeon General released a report entitled The Health
Consequences of Involuntary Exposure to Tobacco Smoke: A Report of the
Surgeon General. The report states that scientific evidence now supports the
following:
“Eliminating smoking in indoor spaces fully protects nonsmokers from
exposure to secondhand smoke. Separating smokers from nonsmokers,
cleaning the air, and ventilating buildings cannot eliminate exposures of
nonsmokers to secondhand smoke.”
This conclusion was substantiated in part, by the following facts:
Conventional air cleaning systems can remove large particles but not the
smaller particles or the gases found in secondhand smoke;
Current heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems alone do not
control secondhand smoke exposure. In fact, these systems may distribute
secondhand smoke throughout a building; and
Even separately enclosed, separately exhausted, negative-pressure smoking
rooms do not keep secondhand smoke from spilling into adjacent areas.
1 http://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/data_statistics/fact_sheets/secondhand_smoke/protection/ventilation/
City of Palo Alto Page 6
Research shows that particles from secondhand tobacco smoke can settle into
dust and onto surfaces and remain there long after the smoke has
disappeared. Some studies suggest the particles can last for months. This ETS
is still being studied. Particles that settle out from tobacco smoke can combine
with gases in the air to form cancer-causing compounds.2 No information on
research for cleaning units was found.
In addition, the committee requested benchmarking with other multi-family
ordinances and associated smoking allowances (partial units, smoking areas
designated, condo exemption process, disclosure process, etc.).
The Center for Tobacco Policy has compiled a list of local California Smokefree
Housing Policies.3 In Walnut Creek, a recent local ordinance bans smoking in
all units and common areas of multi-tenant buildings, including new and
existing units. Other ordinances allow landlords to establish smoking areas in
outdoor common areas meeting criteria outlined in the ordinance. Some
ordinances delay implementation or do not apply to existing units, do not
include condominiums or include only common areas. Staff conducted a
survey as described in Attachment B, which included a question on what type
of ban was preferred. A majority of respondents supported a ban in all units
and indoor and outdoor common areas. Few respondents favored excluding
condominiums from the ban or banning smoking in only part of the units. The
staff recommendation is to direct staff to pursue banning smoking in indoor
and outdoor common areas at multi-family buildings. With specific criteria in
the ordinance, including mandatory receptacles for cigarette butts, outdoor
smoking areas could be permitted to be established by landlords or
homeowners associations.
Lastly, the committee requested additional information regarding possible
legal contradiction with medical marijuana law. Under the ordinance as it
currently stands, public smoking of marijuana – whether medicinal or not – is
prohibited to the same extent and in the same locations as is regular tobacco
smoke. Should the City expand the prohibition on smoking tobacco to multi-
2 http://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancercauses/tobaccocancer/secondhand-smoke
3 http://center4tobaccopolicy.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Local-California-Smokefree-Housing-Policies-
Detailed-Analysis-December-2013.pdf
City of Palo Alto Page 7
family dwellings, the prohibition would automatically include a prohibition on
medicinal marijuana unless Council adopted a specific exemption.
Secondhand smoke from marijuana is harmful to the health of bystanders
similar to tobacco smoke. California’s medical marijuana law includes the
following language:
“Nothing in this article shall authorize a qualified patient or person with an
identification card to engage in the smoking of medical marijuana under any of
the following circumstances:
a. In any place where smoking is prohibited by law.
b. In or within 1,000 feet of the grounds of a school, recreation center, or
youth center, unless the medical use occurs within a residence.
c. On a school bus.
d. While in a motor vehicle that is being operated.
e. While operating a boat.”
Given item (a), medical marijuana would be included in the City’s smoking
ordinance automatically. Should the City consider expanding the smoking
ordinance to multi-unit buildings, an exemption process could be considered
for those that are ill and hold recognized medical marijuana cards.
In addition, Council inquired about the legal aspects of the City’s proposed
regulation of medicinal marijuana usage in places of public accommodation
and/or housing units under various state and federal laws requiring
proprietors to provide a reasonable accommodation for persons with
disabilities. While the case law is not fully developed in California, the existing
case law suggests that there is no right under state law to be allowed to smoke
medicinal marijuana in a housing complex. A 2008 California Supreme Court
employment discrimination case suggests that the California's Compassionate
Use Act of 1996 does not require an owner to allow the growing, smoking
and/or possession of medical marijuana in residential rental property as a
reasonable accommodation for a disabled person (Ross v. Ragingwire
Telecommunications (2008) 42 Cal.4th 920).
City of Palo Alto Page 8
4. Smoking Age
At the County and State level, raising the age for tobacco and e-cigarette
purchases from 18 to 21 has been considered. The Senate passed SB 151 while
the County of Santa Clara passed an ordinance in unincorporated areas. Staff
requests direction on whether to support such efforts through comment
letters or a local ordinance should SB 151 be delayed. Additional information
can be found in the letter from the County to cities (Attachment C).
Policy Implications
The adoption of the proposed ordinance would further Comprehensive Plan
polices: N-5: Clean, Healthful Air for Palo Alto; and N-6: An Environment Free of
the Damaging Effects of Biological and Chemical Hazardous Materials.
In addition, Council adopted four priorities that will "receive particular, unusual
and significant attention during the year," including “Healthy City, Healthy
Community,” with which this effort is consistent.
Resource Impact
This ordinance will have resource impacts on City staff time and financial
resources depending on the level of enforcement and/or outreach required by its
implementation. The Police Department does not currently have resources to
oversee additional enforcement efforts. Staff anticipates providing public
outreach to educate residents and landlords/property managers of the newly
adopted policies. Educational materials and signage costs will be paid with grant
funding from the Santa Clara County Public Health Department and other public
and private agencies.
Environmental Review
Provisions of this ordinance do not constitute a project under the Environmental
Quality Act because it can be seen with certainty that no significant negative
environmental impact will occur as a result of the amended ordinance.
Attachments:
Attachment A - Revised Smoking Ordinance (PDF)
Attachment B 051215 5696 Discussion on Expansion of City Smoking Ordinance (PDF)
Attachment C Minimum Age Tobacco Letter_8.21.2015 (PDF)
Attachment D - Public Letter to Council (PDF)
ATTACHMENT A
*NOT YET APPROVED*
Ordinance No. ______
Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending
Chapter 9.14 (Smoking and Tobacco Regulations) of the Palo Alto
Municipal Code to Establish New Outdoor Smoking Restrictions in
Commercial Areas and Outdoor Dining
The Council of the City of Palo Alto does ORDAIN as follows:
SECTION 1. Findings and Declarations. The City Council finds and declares as follows:
(a) That the adoption of this Ordinance is necessary to protect the public health,
safety and welfare for the reasons set forth in amended section 9.14.005. The purposes of this
Ordinance are to ban smoking in commercial areas, all dining areas, and worksite in order to
reduce the risks of second hand smoke and vapor, reduce litter, and enhance enjoyment of
these areas.
SECTION 2. Chapter 9.14 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as
follows:
Palo Alto Municipal Code Chapter 9.14: Smoking and Tobacco Regulations
9.14.005 Purpose.
The purpose of this Chapter is to:
(a) Protect the public health, safety and general welfare by prohibiting smoking and
use of electronic smoking devices in public parks, public places, service locations, city pool cars,
child day care facilities, and unenclosed eating establishments.
(b) Ensure a cleaner and more hygienic environment within the city, reduce litter,
and protect the City's natural resources, including creeks and streams.
(c) Enhance the welfare of residents, workers, and visitors by reducing exposure to
second hand smoke, which studies confirm can cause negative health effects in non-smokers.
(d) Balance the needs of persons who smoke with the needs of nonsmokers,
including children and youth, to be free from the discomforts and health threats created by
exposure to second-hand smoke and vapor.
9.14.010 Definitions.
The following words and phrases, whenever used in this chapter shall be construed as defined
in this section:
(a) "Bar" means an area which is devoted to serving alcoholic beverages and in
which serving food is only incidental to the consumption of such beverages. "Bar" shall include
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ATTACHMENT A
*NOT YET APPROVED*
bar areas within eating establishments which are devoted to serving alcoholic beverages and in
which serving food is only incidental to the consumption of such beverages.
(b) ”City pool car" means any truck, van or automobile owned by the city and
operated by a city employee. City pool car does not include vehicles operated by the police
department.
(c) “Commercial Area” means an area, including all publicly owned sidewalks, alleys,
parking areas, public places, outdoor dining areas, service areas, etc. within areas zoned in the
City’s Comprehensive Plan as regional/community commercial (including Downtown, California
Avenue Business District, Town and Country, and Stanford Shopping Center) and Neighborhood
Commercial.
(d) "Eating establishment" means a coffee shop, cafeteria, short-order café,
luncheonette, sandwich shop, soda fountain, restaurant, or other establishment serving food to
members of the public.
(e) “Electronic smoking device” means an electronic and/or battery-operated device that can
deliver an inhalable dose of nicotine to the user. “Electronic smoking device” includes any
product meeting this definition, regardless of whether it is manufactured, distributed,
marketed or sold as an electronic cigarette, electronic cigar, electronic cigarillo, electronic pipe,
electronic hookah, electronic vape, vaporizer or any other product name or descriptor.
(ef) "Employee" means any person who is employed by any employer in
consideration for direct or indirect monetary wages or profit.
(fg) "Employee eating place" means any place serving as an employee cafeteria,
lunchrooms, lounge, or like place.
(gh) "Employer" means any person who employs the services of an individual person
or persons.
(hi) "Enclosed" means either closed in by a roof and four walls with appropriate
openings for ingress and egress or not open to the sky due to a cover or shelter consisting of a
tarpaulin, tent structure or other impermeable or semi-permeable materials or fabric.
(ji) "Motion picture theater" means any theater engaged in the business of
exhibiting motion pictures.
(kj) “Public Event” means events open to the general public, including but not
limited to a farmers’ market, parade, craft fair, festival, or any other such event.
(kl) "Public places" means enclosed areas within publicly and privately owned
buildings, structures, facilities, or complexes that are open to, used by, or accessible to the
general public. Public places include, but are not limited to, stores, banks, eating
establishments, bars, hotels, motels, depots and transit terminals, theaters and auditoriums,
enclosed sports arenas, convention centers, museums, galleries, polling places, hospitals and
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ATTACHMENT A
*NOT YET APPROVED*
other health care facilities of any kind (including clinics, dental, chiropractic, or physical therapy
facilities), automotive service centers, general business offices, nonprofit entity offices and
libraries. Public places further include, but are not limited to, hallways, restrooms, stairways,
escalators, elevators, lobbies, reception areas, waiting rooms, indoor service lines, checkout
stations, counters and other pay stations, classrooms, meeting or conference rooms, lecture
rooms, buses, or other enclosed places that are open to, used by, or accessible to the general
public.
(ml) "Service locations" means those enclosed or unenclosed areas open to, used by,
or accessible to the general public that are listed below:
(1) Bus, train and taxi shelters;
(2) Service waiting areas including, but not limited to, ticket or service lines, public
transportation waiting areas, and public telephones;
(3) Areas within twenty-five feet of the entrance or exit to an enclosed public place,
where smoking is prohibited;
(4) Areas in dedicated parks or other publicly accessible areas that are within
twenty-five feet of bleachers, backstops, or play structures.
(nm) "Smoking" means the combustion of any cigar, cigarette, tobacco or any similar
article.
(on) "Tobacco product" means any substance containing tobacco leaf, including but
not limited to cigarettes, cigars, smoking tobacco, and smokeless tobacco.
(po) "Tobacco store" means a retail store utilized primarily for the sale of tobacco
products and accessories and in which the sale of other products is incidental.
(qp) "Tobacco vending machine" means any electronic or mechanical device or
appliance the operation of which-depends upon the insertion of money, whether coin or paper
bill, or other thing representative of value, which dispenses or releases a tobacco product
and/or tobacco accessories.
(r) “Vapor” means aerosol produced from use of an electronic smoking device.
(sq) "Workplace" means any enclosed area of a structure or portion thereof used as a
place of employment as well as unenclosed workplaces, such as outdoor construction sites.
9.14.020 Smoking prohibited - Enclosed Places.
Smoking and the use of electronic smoking devices is prohibited in the Enclosed Areas of the
following places within the City of Palo Alto, except in places subject to prohibition on smoking
contained in Labor Code section 6404.5, in which case that law applies
(1) Workplaces;
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ATTACHMENT A
*NOT YET APPROVED*
(2) Public places;
Any places exempted by the California smoke free workplace law (Labor Code Section
6404.5(d)) are not exempt under this chapter. Smoking is prohibited by this chapter in all places
exempted by that State law, except as provided in 9.14.070.
9.14.025 Smoking prohibited - Unenclosed Areas.
(a) Smoking and the use of electronic smoking devices in all unenclosed areas
defined as Service Locations shall be prohibited, including a buffer zone within 25 feet from any
doorway, window, opening, crack, or vent into an Enclosed Area in which Smoking is
prohibited, except while the Person Smoking is actively passing on the way to another
destination and provided Smoke does not enter any Enclosed Area in which Smoking is
prohibited.
(b) Smoking and the use of electronic smoking devices is prohibited in unenclosed
eating establishments and bars.
9.14.030 Smoking prohibited - City pool cars.
Smoking and the use of electronic smoking devices is prohibited in all city pool cars.
9.14.035 Smoking Prohibited - Public Parks and Public Events.
Smoking and the use of electronic smoking devices is prohibited in all parks, including at public
events.
9.14.040 Smoking prohibited - Child day care facilities.
Smoking is prohibited in a private residence which is licensed as a child day care facility within
the meaning of Health and Safety Code Section 1596.750 and Section 1596.795 and
amendments.
9.14.050 Smoking prohibited – Commercial Areas and Public Events.
Smoking and the use of electronic smoking devices is prohibited in commercial areas, except
places where smoking is already prohibited by state or federal law, in which case those laws
apply. This prohibition includes public events held on public streets. A shopping center or
commercial areas may establish a designated smoking area that is at least 25 feet away from
any openings and includes receptacles to control litter.
9.14.060 Reserved.*
* Editor's Note: Former Section 9.14.060, Regulation of Smoking in the Workplace, previously
codified herein and containing portions of Ordinance Nos. 4056 and 4164 was repealed in its
entirety by Ordinance No. 4294.
4
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ATTACHMENT A
*NOT YET APPROVED*
9.14.070 Exemptions.
The following places and workplaces are exempt from Section 9.14.020:
(a) Smoking at theatrical production sites is not prohibited by this subsection if the
theater general manager certifies that smoking is an essential part of the story and the use of a
fake, prop, or special effect cannot reasonably convey the idea of smoking in an effective way
to a reasonable member of the anticipated audience. This exception will not apply if minors are
performers within the production.
(b) Bingo games, consistent with prohibition on smoking contained in Labor Code
section 6404.5 and licensed pursuant to the Palo Alto Municipal Code, which do not permit
access by minors under eighteen years of age
(c) A fully enclosed room in a hotel, motel, other transient lodging establishment
similar to a hotel, motel, or public convention center which is being used entirely for a private
function and which is not open to the general public, except while food or beverage functions
are taking place, including setup, service, and cleanup activities, or when the room is being
used for exhibit purposes, sixty-five percent of the guest rooms in a hotel, motel, or similar
transient lodging establishment;
(d) Tobacco stores with private smokers' lounges meeting the requirements of the
applicable portions of subdivision (d)(4) of Labor Code Section 6404.5.
9.14.80 Location of tobacco vending machines.
(a) No person shall locate, install, keep or maintain a tobacco vending machine
except in a place which under state law is not lawfully accessible to minors.
(b) This section shall become effective ninety days after its enactment. Any tobacco
vending machine not in conformance with this section upon its effective date shall be removed.
9.14.090 Display of tobacco products for sale.
No person shall display or offer tobacco products for sale except in an area, or from within an
enclosure, which physically precludes the removal of the tobacco products without the
assistance of the person authorizing such display or offer, or an employee of such person.
(Ord. 4056 § 4 (part), 1991)
9.14.100 Posting of signs required.
With the exception of service locations, wherever this ordinance prohibits smoking and the use
of electronic smoking devices, conspicuous signs shall be posted so stating, containing all
capital lettering not less than one inch in height, on a contrasting background. Signs of similar
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ATTACHMENT A
*NOT YET APPROVED*
size containing the international "no smoking" symbol consisting of a pictorial representation of
a burning cigarette and electronic smoking device enclosed in a red circle with a red bar across
it may be used in addition to or in lieu of any signs required hereunder. Such signs shall be
placed by the owner, operator, manager, or other persons having control of such room,
building, or other place where smoking and the use of electronic smoking devices is prohibited.
Signs placed at each entrance of buildings in which smoking is totally prohibited shall be
sufficient. The absence of signs shall not be a defense to a violation of any provision of this
chapter.
//
//
9.14.110 Enforcement.
Pursuant to Section 6 of Article IV of the Palo Alto City Charter, the city manager is hereby
granted authority to enforce the provisions of this chapter and Labor Code Section 6404.5.
9.14.120 Public nuisance.
Any violation of this chapter is a public nuisance and may be abated in accordance with Chapter
9.56 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code and/or Code of Civil Procedure Section 731.
9.14.130 Violations to be misdemeanors.
Violation of any provision of this chapter shall be a misdemeanor punishable as provided in this
code. Violations shall be punishable by the following:
(1) An administrative citation and Aa fine not exceeding $250 for the first violation;
(2) An infraction and Aa fine not exceeding $300 for the second violation
(3) An infraction or a misdemeanor and Aa fine not exceeding $500 for each
additional violation within one year
SECTION 3. Severability. If any provision, clause, sentence or paragraph of this
ordinance, or the application to any person or circumstances, shall be held invalid, such
invalidity shall not affect the other provisions of this Ordinance which can be given effect
without the invalid provision or application and, to this end, the provisions of this Ordinance
are hereby declared to be severable.
SECTION 4. The Council finds that this project is exempt from the provisions of the
California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”), pursuant to Section 15061 of the CEQA
Guidelines, because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the ordinance
will have a significant effect on the environment.
//
//
6
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ATTACHMENT A
*NOT YET APPROVED*
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
SECTION 5. This ordinance shall be effective on the thirty-first day after the date of its
adoption.
INTRODUCED:
PASSED:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTENTIONS:
ATTEST:
____________________________ ____________________________
City Clerk Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED:
____________________________ ____________________________
Assistant City Attorney City Manager
____________________________
Director of Public Works
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City of Palo Alto (ID # 5696)
Policy and Services Committee Staff Report
Report Type: Agenda Items Meeting Date: 5/12/2015
City of Palo Alto Page 1
Summary Title: Discussion on Expansion of City Smoking Ordinance
Title: Discussion and Direction on Expansion of City Smoking Ordinance to
Multi-Family Housing, Adding Electronic Cigarettes, and Restricting Sales of
Tobacco Products and E-Cigarettes
From: City Manager
Lead Department: Public Works
Recommendation:
Staff requests that the Policy and Services Committee:
1.Review the results of outreach to multi-family building tenants and
landlords based on those results and the Council’s 2015 Healthy
City/Healthy Community priority to provide direction to staff to draft an
ordinance expanding the City’s smoking ordinance to multi-family
buildings; and to:
2.Provide direction to staff to draft an ordinance making e-cigarettes subject
to the smoking ordinance; and
3.Provide direction to staff regarding the restrictions on the sale of tobacco
products, including requirements regarding tobacco retailer licensing.
Background:
The City Council adopted an ordinance on December 15, 2014 (ID #5302) to
expand smoking restrictions to outdoor commercial areas, outdoor dining areas,
public events, work sites and service locations; include penalty escalation for
repeat offenders; require cigarette butt receptacles and signage immediately
adjacent and within areas covered by the ban. As part of adoption of the
ordinance, the Council referred further investigation of tobacco retailer licensing
and indoor smoking restrictions at multi-family housing, as well as inclusion of e-
Attachment B
City of Palo Alto Page 2
cigarettes into the City’s smoking restrictions, to the Policy and Services
Committee for further consideration and action.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cigarette
smoking is the single most preventable cause of premature death in the United
States. Frequent and recurring exposure to second-hand smoke can cause health
problems such as asthma, heart disease, cancer and Sudden Infant Death
Syndrome (SIDS), as well as worsen a chronic illness. In terms of multi-family
housing, the home is the place where children are most exposed to secondhand
smoke, and it's a major place for second-hand smoke exposure for adults. The US
Surgeon General has concluded that “There is no risk-free level of exposure to
secondhand smoke.” Breathing even a little secondhand smoke can be harmful.
According to the American Lung Association, residents in multi-unit housing are
exposed to secondhand smoke, because it can migrate from other units and
common areas and travel through doorways, cracks in walls, electrical lines,
plumbing, and ventilation systems. Eliminating smoking in multi-unit housing can
also contribute to higher property values and decreased fire risk. Cigarette waste
is also a significant source of litter.
Discussion:
Indoor Smoking Restrictions – Multi Family
Staff conducted outreach to multi-family residential units by mailing 8,549
postcards to landlords and tenants of the City’s multi-family units on March 9,
2015 and directing them to an on-line survey or phone number to provide input.
Phone responses were entered into the on-line survey by staff. 505 responses
were received by April 10, 2015. Of the respondents, the majority (96%) were
residents in multi-unit housing. Only two percent of the respondents were
landlords and another two percent were other residents, business owners,
visitors, or employees. Of the respondents, the majority (95%) were non-
smokers.
In terms of the current state of smoking restrictions, of the nine
landlords/property managers that responded, five indicated that their complexes
currently allow smoking and four indicated that smoking was not allowed. This
mirrors the responses from residents, where 51% indicated that their complex
allows smoking in all units, with an additional 19% allowing smoking in common
areas, six percent allowing smoking in some units, and 24% not allowing smoking.
City of Palo Alto Page 3
Of the landlords/property managers, the majority (56%) have had to deal with
complaints about second-hand smoke from their tenants, and they all support
partial or complete bans of smoking in multi-unit housing. Support for a
designated smoking area was nearly evenly split with five of the nine respondents
not supporting a smoking area in their complex and four supporting.
Of the residents who responded, the majority (57%) indicated that smoke in the
complex grounds outside bothers them very much, with an additional 17%
indicating it bothers them somewhat and 8% feel a little bothered. A majority
(80%) also indicated that smoke inside the unit bothers them, 64% indicating it
bothers them very much. Of residents, the majority of the respondents (90%) are
in favor of smoking restrictions in multi-unit housing. Of those in favor of smoking
restrictions, the following options were supported:
Banning smoking in all units (82%)
Banning smoking in some units (30%)
Banning smoking in indoor common areas (72%)
Banning smoking in outdoor common areas (68%)
Rather than requiring owners of condos to comply immediately, making
condo units smoke-free upon resale only (19%)
Comments indicate strong support for smoking restrictions in multi-tenant
housing due to health concerns from smoke permeating through walls, entering
units through open windows, and from sidewalks, with some respondents
requesting restricting smoking within 25 feet of the buildings to ensure that
smoke does not enter the units from the sidewalks. Many respondents are
concerned about their children being exposed to second-hand smoke or have
health concerns that are exacerbated by their neighbors’ smoking. Some
respondents voiced concern about restricting smoking inside units and infringing
on private property rights. See Attachment A for the written responses received.
A survey conducted by the County in 2011-12 had similar results with the majority
of landlords and tenants supporting smoke-free multi-unit housing complexes.
Many cities and counties in California have implemented restrictions on smoking
in multi-tenant housing, including Santa Clara County, San Mateo County, San
Rafael, Belmont, Richmond, and Walnut Creek. The City of San Jose restricts
smoking in common areas only. Smoking restrictions in multi-tenant housing are
City of Palo Alto Page 4
strongly supported by a majority of tenants based on positive results such as
improved health protection, reduced fire risk, and higher property values.
Staff recommends drafting an ordinance to restrict smoking in multi-unit housing
for Council approval that includes all units, common areas, and buffer area on
sidewalks.
E-cigarettes
According to a letter sent to cities in Santa Clara County by the County of Santa
Clara Public Health Department in April 2014, “the rapidly increasing use of
electronic smoking devices (commonly referred to as electronic cigarettes,
electronic cigars, electronic cigarillos, electronic pipes, electronic hookahs,
electronic vapes, or vaporizers), threatens to undo much of the social norm
change around tobacco use which has largely resulted from health and tobacco
prevention policies like the ones implemented by the County and cities
throughout Santa Clara County. Public health advancements could be undermined
by the unrestricted use of e-cigarettes, which produce a smoke-like aerosol in
public, and widespread, unrestricted advertising of such products in ways that
have been restricted for cigarettes and other tobacco products for decades. The
use of these products presents health hazards to the users and potentially to
bystanders as well.”
The County has amended the County’s tobacco control ordinances for
unincorporated Santa Clara County to include electronic smoking devices. Several
cities have also included e-cigarettes in their smoking ordinances, including
Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, Foster City, Fremont, Dublin, and Mountain View. A CDC
study showed that in 2011, 4.7% of all high school students had tried e-cigarettes
and that in 2012, that number increased to 10.0% of all high school students. The
letter from the County included the Factual Findings (see Attachment B)
supporting an inclusion of restrictions on e-cigarettes in current smoking bans.
Given the unknown public health impacts and the current lack of regulation, the
Public Health Department recommends a precautionary approach in regulating
the use of electronic smoking devices, until their safety is conclusively
established. At this time, no restrictions exist to using e-cigarettes in Palo Alto,
including in municipal buildings, restaurants, and city cars.
City of Palo Alto Page 5
Staff recommends including e-cigarettes in the existing smoking ordinance and
banning use of e-cigarettes in all areas where tobacco is currently banned.
Consistent with the County’s ordinance, such a ban on e-cigarettes would not
extend into units of multi-family housing as there is currently no evidence that
vapor moves between units.
Tobacco Retailer Licensing
At a presentation to the Policy and Services on June 17, 2014 (ID #4704), the
committee moved to ban the sale of tobacco products and e-cigarettes in
pharmacies, however, due to staff resourcing issues, such restrictions have not
yet been pursued. One way to ban tobacco products in pharmacies is to adopt a
tobacco retailer licensing program, which has the additional benefit of better
controlling tobacco sales to minors. In Palo Alto, the 2014 illegal sales rate to
minors was 15 percent. There are currently 33 stores that sell tobacco in Palo
Alto, and more than half (58%) of those stores are located within 1,000 feet of a
school. The current California state tobacco retail licensing law requires only a
one-time fee for a license and is not an effective vehicle to enforce sale of
tobacco to minors or restricting the sale of tobacco in targeted areas (such as
within 1,000 feet of schools). The cities of San Jose, Campbell, Gilroy, Morgan Hill
and Santa Clara County have adopted tobacco retail licensing programs. These
self-funding programs give local jurisdictions the authority to hold retailers
accountable for selling tobacco to minors and to restrict the sale in targeted areas
or retail locations such as near schools, parks, and in pharmacies. The programs
can be tailored to grandfather existing uses as desired.
Staff recommends that in order to implement the Policy and Services direction to
restrict the sale of tobacco products in pharmacies, a tobacco retailer licensing
program be considered, including conducting outreach to pharmacies in Palo Alto.
Policy Implications:
The adoption of an expanded ordinance would further Comprehensive Plan
polices: Policy N-5: Clean, Healthful Air for Palo Alto; and Policy N-6: An
Environment Free of the Damaging Effects of Biological and Chemical Hazardous
Materials. In addition, this effort is consistent with the 2015 Council Priority:
Healthy City, Healthy Community.
Resource Impact:
City of Palo Alto Page 6
This ordinance will have impacts on ongoing City staff time and financial resources
depending on the level of enforcement and/or ongoing public information
required by its implementation. It is anticipated that Police Officers or Code
Enforcement Officers will respond to violations of the ordinance on a complaint
basis. Staff time and resources would be required to set up and implement the
tobacco retailer licensing program. The license fee is expected to fund the
ongoing cost of the program. Staff anticipates providing public outreach to
educate residents and landlords/property managers of the newly adopted
policies. Educational materials and signage costs are eligible for grant funding
from the Santa Clara County Public Health Department and other public and
private agencies. Staff will pursue such grant funding.
Timeline:
Staff recommends bringing proposed ordinance language back to the Policy and
Services Committee in the fall of 2015.
Attachments:
A - Survey Responses (DOCX)
B - E Cigarettes (PDF)
Attachment A: Responses to Survey Question 12
Do you have comments, concerns and suggestions or concerns that you would like to share
with us related to restricting smoking in multi-family buildings?
smoking in a[n] apartment building affects everyone here. I'm retired and home all day as well as our
smoker.
4/9/2015 4:24 PM
I think restricting smoking indoors is just fine. Smoking should be limited to outdoor areas away from
windows and doors, for courtesy and health.
4/9/2015 1:28 PM
Older buildings such as our own (built in 1977) have poor ventilation/insulation between units, so we
do smell tobacco smoke from the unit beneath us, even if all windows are closed. Smoking is
prohibited in the common areas of our complex, but if we can smell the smoke from the individual
units (where it is allowed), the rule doesn't truly protect the non-smokers. Banning smoking entirely,
from inside individual units as well, would be the best course of action for the health and safety of all
who live here. Plus, such a change shouldn't be "grandfathered in," thus allowing current smokers to
continue to smoke. The new rule should apply, effective immediately, to all units. Smokers should be
required to find other living arrangements.
4/7/2015 8:49 PM
Please, please, please pass this ordinance. I had to move out of an apartment in Sacramento in
2007 because there was a smoker above me - he would smoke in his apartment and the way the
building was constructed the smoke would travel down common vents into my apartment. There was
no way to stop it. I am very allergic to smoke - it can trigger asthma attacks for me so it is an issue
with not just health but a serious safety concern. Living in Stanford West has not been easy either.
We lived next to three smokers (2 have been replaced with non-smokers as of this year) and we
dealt with smoke entering our apartment constantly (even through the common bathroom vent from
the smoker below our unit). I have asked management for help but they refuse to do anything. As
you consider this ordinance please keep in mind that a smoking ban inside units is a great starting
point but to allow smoking on balconies or anywhere near the buildings means that smoke drifts
throughout the complex and, if windows are open (which is obviously common for units in the area),
smoke enters another unit. Please pass this ordinance, I can't voice my support strongly enough.
4/7/2015 11:35 AM
I cannot even open my sliding door because my [n]ext door neighbor smokes & the smoke comes up
into my room & bothers me.
4/5/2015 9:12 PM
Palo Alto should continue to demonstrate its leadership on public safety issues by implementing the
strictest possible anti-smoking ordinances in multi-family buildings.
4/5/2015 5:39 PM
Smokers seem to think that smoking outside is not a problem, but the smell permeates my
residence. When it occurs, I consider it a major nuisance.
4/5/2015 12:01 PM
Smokers are selfish and inconsiderate. They smoke in common areas and expose other people to
dangerous second hand smoke.
4/2/2015 12:11 PM
Second hand smoking is not only unhealthy in general, it particularly It aggravates the condition of
asthma and COPD
4/2/2015 10:18 AM
The person over the phones said that tenants smoke above and below and it comes down through
the heater vent. For her, it affects her throat. For her neighbor, it gives her swollen eyes. Her
neighbor has already complained to City Hall. People smoke in their cars, but it still comes in
through her windows.
4/2/2015 9:23 AM
I have owned my condo for over 25 years. I am a non-smoker and none of my guests has ever
smoked in my home, at my request. But I would very much resent the idea that the City could tell me
I could not smoke here if I wanted to. I would consider that discrimination against people who live in
multi-unit housing. The City is going too far here.
4/1/2015 2:29 PM
Smoking is allowed in all apts. and on the grounds of our complex. The biggest problem is the
smoking that takes place in outdoor common areas. Smoke wafts into non-smokers' patios,
balconies, and apts. (when windows/doors are open) and there's no way to remove it. Smokers sit
on benches near apts. and smoke. This is terrible for the health of non-smokers and those with
health issues (asthma, allergies, etc.) Please ban smoking in multi-unit housing outdoor common
areas asap!! (And be sure to include marijuana smoking--indoors and out--in the smoking ban.) If
this restriction is passed, how will it be effectively enforced? Most people in this area don't even
respect the existing restrictions regarding outside smoking distance from buildings. Note: Complex
employees and contracted workers who smoke near apts. are part of the problem.
4/1/2015 1:52 PM
In warm months when my neighbors have their windows open I get second hand smoke every night
at 10:00 coming out neighbors' windows and into mine. If residents are allowed to smoke in the units
they must be required to keep windows closed. This ordinance is very important because as more
buildings prohibit smoking, other buildings are filling up with the displaced smokers.
4/1/2015 1:41 PM
Second-hand smoke exposure in multi-family units is too common - we are forced to shut our
windows when smokers walk past outside, or if smokers are on their balcony and it wafts in. Smoke
has even come through the bathroom vent.
3/31/2015 9:55 PM
I strongly believe we should have an ordinance against smoking in multi-unit homes, up to 30 feet
away from the property. We have young children living in our home breathing in second hand smoke
from our neighbors.
3/29/2015 8:59 PM
All smoking should be restricted in all units and in all common spaces. But how to enforce?
3/29/2015 5:29 PM
Smoking is not currently a big problem (only the apartment manager smokes outside), but I wouldn't
want to move into a unit that had a stale smoke smell, and it's better not to have to confront it when
outside. However, I don't know how much this restricts people's freedom and rights if they can't
smoke in their own unit.
3/27/2015 10:47 PM
I think smoking should be prohibited inside and out except for in designated, separate smoking
areas.
3/27/2015 2:05 PM
I live on Tasso downtown across from Bank of America. Employees from businesses smoke at this
location. The smoke filters to my bldg. How can this be stopped with or without ordinance. Actually,
this area is also used as an outdoor male restroom. Thank you
3/25/2015 3:00 AM
Palo Alto - Police State 101? While I don't appreciate people sitting on their balconies smoking with
the wind blowing smoke into my apartment, I'll take that any day over the rules and regulations which
are eroding our rights and lifestyles at an alarming rate. Perhaps you could spend more time actually
making it a town worth living in (it's definitely heading in the wrong direction) instead of making so
many rules and regulations that no one can simply relax and enjoy what little time they might have
for that purpose.
3/24/2015 1:25 PM
none
3/24/2015 7:02 AM
Due to close proximity, I think smoking should be prohibited, even on personal balconies, garages,
and patios.
3/23/2015 10:11 PM
Great idea to restrict second-hand exposure to smoking. Thanks!
3/23/2015 9:02 PM
We have the problem that: 1)Despite that our building does not allow smoking, our resident
managers smokes both inside his unit and outside, 2) People smoke just outside our unit, and it
comes in our windows which is terrible and makes our eyes water.
3/23/2015 8:02 PM
In a multi-unit building, smoking bans are very important, because the likelihood of a smoker present
in another unit unfortunately is high. Many unit residents in attempt to accommodate other unit
residents stick their heads outside a window and smoke. The second hand smoke filters to other
units. One should not have to tolerate second hand smoke.
3/23/2015 5:06 PM
Although I am not a smoker, I think it is unfair to ban smoking in all the units in multi-family building.
Restricting smoking in shared/common areas such as pools, garage, laundry room, etc, however,
should be seriously considered. In addition, smoking should be restricted on streets nearby hospitals
(for example, Welch road on which LPCH, Stanford hospital and cancer center are located), daycare
center, children's playground as well as busy streets (University ave and California ave).
3/23/2015 4:37 PM
The person over the phone said that smoking is ok in private units.
3/23/2015 2:50 PM
The person over the phone said that a campaign on second hand smoking should be considered.
3/23/2015 2:49 PM
The person over the phone suggested that hypnotism has been shown to solve smoking. She also
says that she does not like smoke and that it is a bad habit.
3/23/2015 2:46 PM
The person over the phone said that she is a non-smoker and objects to smoke.
3/23/2015 2:45 PM
none
3/23/2015 2:43 PM
The person over the phone said that it would be great to not put up with second hand smoking from
next door condo.
3/23/2015 2:42 PM
The person over the phone said that many of the people who are smokers in her apartment building
are transient people from outside of CA. She doesn't think that there should be smoking allowed at
all. A lot of smoke comes up from their balcony.
3/23/2015 2:40 PM
The person over the phone said that they are against smoke and second hand smoke.
3/23/2015 2:38 PM
very good idea
3/23/2015 2:37 PM
Smoking is not only an issue as it happens, I have lived in units here where smoking by previous
tenants has so saturated the walls and structure that it continues to be noticeable and have impact (I
am allergic) long after they have left.
3/23/2015 2:09 PM
I'm a nonsmoker and I'm certainly keen for any rental cars, hotel rooms and apartments that I use to
be smoke-free. And I'm very grateful that smoking on aircraft was before my time. But I do wonder
whether the whole "no smoking pretty much anywhere" push has gone too far. w.r.t. apartment
dwelling, yes, I'd like my apartment and the laundry to be smoke-free, but I don't object to folks
smoking outside, and it would be OK with me (maybe not with the landlord?) if there were
designated smoking apartments. Anecdote: a while ago the tenant of the next-door apartment was
asked to leave after, I gather, repeatedly flouting the no-smoking-inside rule, and I agree that that
constitutes reasonable grounds.
3/22/2015 9:41 PM
I strongly support a smoking ban to multi-unit housing. My building, the marc, only very recently
banned smoking (I should also mention the non-smoking signs are a joke and not forceful at all). As
someone who was pregnant prior to the smoking ban, I found the smoke coming into our apartment
to be unbearable. It's a horrible thing that I should I have to keep my windows closed to protect
myself and my family. It's not enough to allow people to only smoke in their units. Most people would
smoke on their porches and the smoke would travel. Please please please ban smoking in multi-unit
housing.
3/22/2015 9:25 PM
The housing stock in CA is very poorly built, with little insulation between units. Thus, if one person
smokes in the unit, it typically permeates the wall and transfers into other units. That's an immediate
health issue, as well as something that devalues properties / is not easily or cheaply repaired.
Smoking on balconies definitely impacts other units, forcing the non-smokers to close windows for
the smokers habit. In pushing people out of smoking in / on balconies of units, you also need to be
thoughtful of where they go to smoke. The current 15' barrier is grossly insufficient. Common areas
are critical too -- my unit butts up again a pool of a neighboring complex and they unfortunately allow
smoking at their pool. Ultimately, I need to have control over my personal health and property
value,not be subject to the behavior of others to diminish. Rental property units are also typically all
about keeping their cash flow going by keeping the customer happy and basically let anything go
until someone complains, and then typically do little to address long term. They typically have
deeper pockets to remediate smoking damage (in drywalls /carpet), so I hope you weight their input
appropriately. They care about their bottom line, nothing else. Finally, d[ue] to the current
overcrowding, a lot of bad rental behavior is going on -- running businesses out of MF housing units,
exceeding the occupancy limits, short term rentals. The city needs to be MUCH more aggressive in
its policies so we are not benefiting the 1% who are buying up and renting out property at the
expense of those living in a primary residence. Need residency rules, short term rental rules, etc.
3/22/2015 1:19 PM
Of far greater concern for the population of this city is the mostly odorless car pollution since most
condos and townhomes are located next to heavily traveled street traffic. That is a far more difficult
issue to mandate, so pick on a small minority of homeowners. Most owners have respect for their
neighbors and do not smoke were others are affected. No balcony smoking is important. I smoke
under my kitchen fan, up,up and away from everyone. I also am the owner of an older townhome
with over 1200 sg. feet of garden space as do all my neighbors. I am greatly concerned about
owning a 1 1/2 million dollar home for 30 years and the city is restricting my use of my private
property.
3/22/2015 9:39 AM
Leave the smokers in peace, you're already harassing them too much. If you feel the need to
micromanage someone's life, start inspecting the homes of every person receiving city-paid
healthcare!
3/21/2015 4:29 PM
People should be allowed to smoke in the privacy of their home and surrounding common areas. It is
up to their neighbors, not larger governing bodies, to establish standards regarding smoking and
associated behaviors.
3/21/2015 1:42 PM
2nd hand smoke, cigarette butts on ground where my kids play.
3/21/2015 7:00 AM
I have never smoked, I don't care for second-hand smoke, but leave the poor smokers alone. They
should be able to smoke in their own apartment.
3/20/2015 2:12 PM
Please extend restrictions to what is technically Stanford land - Stanford West specifically. people
smoke in outdoor common areas and the smoke enters individual units. And affects families playing
on playgrounds and in common areas. We are exposed to considerable second-degree smoke that
could be completely avoided. Please help us protect ourselves--and especially our kids--from smoke
exposure. Thank you!
3/19/2015 8:39 PM
Prohibiting smoking in multi-unit residential areas would be a breath of fresh air for people like me
and my family. We are very sensitive to tobacco smoke. It causes irritation in our airways, allergies,
asthma. We have other concerns, of course, such as second smoke exposure leading to grave
health consequences up to lung cancer. We had to move before to avoid exposure to smoke. In our
current apartment we are on the landlady's and neighbors' mercy. The owner is not willing to include
a "no smoking" clause in the lease agreement. The landlady asks potential tenants if they smoke
and is generally happy with a simple "no". There is no reinforcement. We had smoking neighbors
before and it was hell because the insulation in these old apartments is poor. The smoke penetrates
through electrical fixtures and perhaps cracks, just as sound does. We have to run from one room to
another depending upon where our neighbors downstairs choose to smoke this time. That includes
sleeping in different rooms at nights. Please ... please pass this ordinance. That will be a legal
reason for us to try to protect our health and well-being. At present, we are helpless.
3/19/2015 6:50 PM
why stop there? Please ban fume spewing cars and trucks. Please ban the use of precious fresh
water on grass.
3/18/2015 11:28 PM
While waiting until a condo unit is resold to enforce this restriction is more realistic, cigarette smoke
drifts across units and affects the quality of life for all. It would be lovely to walk around our complex
without having to pass by smokers. We have to close our windows whenever our neighbors smoke
either tobacco or marijuana. We have had to invest in air filters to clear the air. Thank you for giving
me and my children hope!
3/18/2015 6:26 PM
not in favor
3/18/2015 4:56 PM
Although I don't smoke, I think it's important to create areas where it's *possible* to smoke, so that
smokers have a safe and legal place to smoke.
3/18/2015 4:15 PM
I believe that such an ordinance is highly discriminatory against the elderly smokers, some of whom
are bed ridden, in wheel chairs, or otherwise partially incapacitated. In short, there is a war being
waged against smokers.
3/18/2015 12:06 PM
I wouldn't mind if people smoke in their own unit, as long as the smoke doesn't enter my unit or any
common spaces. Unfortunately, smoke is hard to control and most often invades all surrounding
space, private and public.
3/18/2015 10:26 AM
How would this be enforced? The manager at my complex smokes, I believe both inside their
apartment and in the back parking area. I smell it often. Would the city be willing to intervene in such
a case, when there's a clear disincentive for the complainant to approach the smoker?
3/18/2015 8:54 AM
I believe smoking is restricted enough in PA and that people should be able to smoke in their own
homes including patios & decks.
3/18/2015 7:36 AM
The smoke in other Condominiums seeps into my unit and makes my asthma worse. When people
smoke outside in the designated area the smoke still enters the building. The more restrictions the
better. I would like the freedom to breath[e]
3/18/2015 5:35 AM
In addition to the benefits you mention, it would also reduce the risk of fires
3/18/2015 12:07 AM
Smoking is a health and safety hazard to all residents.
3/17/2015 10:11 PM
Other people who come from the Glass Slipper Inn to our apartment complex and smoke around our
building. In other words, people who don't live in our complex who come and smoke on our property
is something that is difficult to monitor and control.
3/17/2015 9:36 PM
We own our condo and moved into it in late 2006. Our downstairs neighbors also own and lived here
before us. They smoke sometimes and were better about not doing it in their unit when we had a
newborn but over the years they have stared back up. It's especially bad in the summer / hot months
as we all have windows open and the smell comes in. Also, in our downstairs bathroom it frequently
smells of [cigarette] smoke since it comes through the floor.
3/17/2015 8:33 PM
How would these rules be enforced? I have neighbor that smokes on her patio - it's awful to walk by.
3/17/2015 8:17 PM
I feel sorry for the smokers who will be excluded. But i also have lung cancer (tho' never a smoker)
and *cannot* be in favor of any smoke affecting anyone but the smoker. Just call it "tough love";
making things tough for smokers is really for their own good . . . .
3/17/2015 7:49 PM
I empathize with a smoker who cannot quit smoking, but I am bothered by the smoke smell in our
hallway. The resident who smokes does not smoke outside his/her unit but still the smell of smoke
gets out to some extent.
3/17/2015 6:32 PM
We live in a multi-unit above a restaurant. Both workers and restaurant patrons smoke near
walkways leading to our stairwell. It's worse on rainy days when everyone huddles around the
stairwell as they smoke.
3/17/2015 3:55 PM
It should happen right away - impossible to escape the negative effects of smoking when in close
proximity neighbors are smoking. Merely going to my mailbox makes my clothes and hair smell like
I've been to a smoking bar.
3/17/2015 12:11 PM
Smoking should not be allowed within common areas and should be enforced.
3/17/2015 10:21 AM
One - Second hand smoke bad for the kids, who don't have a choice. Two - It sets a bad example.
Three - When we moved in, there were lingering smell issues. Four - Broken window theory - when
smoking is allowed, it leads to smoking things stronger than tobacco. (Again, the kids have no
choice)
3/17/2015 7:02 AM
We live in an area where we have windows open at least 75% of the year. However, if someone was
smoking outside of my complex or even on the road, I would be very affected by this smoke, even
though I am inside my apartment.
3/16/2015 11:04 PM
Hello, there are several smokers in our complex that violate the rules and smoke near windows of
other complexes. My children and I are regularly exposed to second hand smoke as it easily blows
through the house with the cross-breeze, with a clear strong smell. Our landlords are unwilling to
confront the violators. One excuse is that it's hard to forbid people from smoking in their own unit,
including their outdoor enclosure, but that is directly under other units' windows.
3/16/2015 9:52 PM
I do not like smoking at all; but think people should be able to smoke in units they own. If rented,
[landlord] can make it a no smoking unit.
3/16/2015 9:32 PM
I support smoking restrictions as smoke easily travels between units and it is a very unhealthy for
others.
3/16/2015 9:20 PM
I've never been a smoker, but I don't support Palo Alto dictating so much of people's behavior in their
own home. Apartment and condo complexes should be able to make their own rules on this.
3/16/2015 7:16 PM
I'm on my HOA board. How would such a regulation be enforced? Would we be liable if we did not
monitor/report fellow residents? We really don't want to have to be involved.
3/16/2015 6:54 PM
I have no idea what the smoking restrictions in my building are currently. (I just guessed in my
answer.)
3/16/2015 6:15 PM
Great idea, primarily for safety reasons
3/16/2015 8:53 AM
people should be able to smoke in the[ir] own homes
3/16/2015 5:42 AM
Please restrict cigarette smoking any way you can. Thank you.
3/16/2015 4:06 AM
I personally don't smoke, but I do feel strongly that if a landlord wishes, the landlord should be able
to allow residents to choose to smoke in their units and/or common areas, rather than there being a
blanket ban enforced by the city. Individuals (such as myself) who are bothered by smoke or worried
about health risks could choose to stay in other apartment units where smoking was disallowed. In
particular, I notice a greater acceptance of smoking in other countries outside of the United States,
and it would seem unfortunate and intrusive to disallow people from smoking in the privacy of their
own homes.
3/15/2015 9:32 PM
Neighbors smoke outside the window and it's constantly in my [apartment]. In general I support the
restriction.
3/15/2015 7:38 PM
We live in dwellings that share or leak air because I smell others food cooking. Cigarette smoke is
much more detrimental to my lung issues if it seeps into my apartment.
3/15/2015 5:20 PM
I have a toddler, and I live in an apartment complex with many toddlers. When someone smokes in
common areas, it is hard for families with young children who wish to keep young ones away from
smoke. It is not fair to one and two year olds who have no choice to breath the smoke.
3/15/2015 4:21 PM
We have a one year old and are very concerned with exposure to second hand smoke outside our
apartment complex
3/15/2015 4:16 PM
Some residents in our multi-unit complex smoke on their balcony, while the children are playing on
the few lawn areas right next to the balcony. I'd like to avoid my children having 2nd-hand smoking.
3/15/2015 3:56 PM
Nearly impossible to prevent smoke from seeping through to other units, or from outside.
3/15/2015 3:17 PM
I have had cancer and am concerned that I am being exposed to second hand smoke.
3/15/2015 12:24 PM
In the case of condominiums & townhomes which are occupied by the owner, this is an inappropriate
- actually outrageous abuse of authority over the rights of property owners to do what they want in
their own homes. You're actually going to tell me what I can & cannot do in my own home? Oh I've
heard the "greater good" argument against all smoking, but I think in the case of condominiums &
townhomes it's really about being free from oppression and free from abuse by authorities when you
are in your own home. It looks to me like nothing more tha[n] an easy way for you all to grab votes in
your next election. You'll be kicking the proverbial dog when he's down. I'm ashamed that something
like this could be happening in my town. At the very least, you should "grandfather in" people who
own their own homes and are breaking no laws. If you go through with this, I believe it will diminish
property values because it will be perfectly obvious to anyone that you will next ban smoking in
every home, not just multi-family. You are so full of yourselves! Sorry...
3/15/2015 12:17 PM
I have a neighbor who has moved to a bench in the next building (which is a commercial building -
735 Cowper) because he couldn't smoke in our building. Unfortunately it is right next door and so the
smoke still comes into our bedroom but he is "off the property." Is he in violation if the 25 foot rule
since he is within 10 feet of that property? What can I do the make sure the owners of that business
take action?
3/15/2015 8:26 AM
Only restrict in shared-use areas (pools, walkways, etc) not inside dwellings.
3/14/2015 10:24 PM
You may be interested in speaking to me in that I have extensive experience with this issue. During
1979-1982 I was legislative assistant to State Sen. Alan Sieroty (D-West L.A.) who was very
instrumental in getting the statewide law banning smoking in public places passed. During 1982-83 I
served as lobbyist for Californians for Non-Smokers' Rights.
3/14/2015 7:39 PM
Smoke has such a way of penetrating carpets, drapes and walls
3/14/2015 6:22 PM
[Frequently] there are people smoking marijuana & sometimes crack. the neighbors complained
about all the marijuana smoke wafting over and about all the teenagers hanging around waiting for
the drug dealer. Parents & Grandparents would not let their kids play in the kiddie yard because of
the drug use. Yes, the police were called. As long as they all have a marijuana card it is okay. I am
sure this is what they are told by the City Mgr and certain politicians. Like that deal no smoking
cigarettes in the parks. the idea is to keep more normal [people] out of the parks to allow drug
[dealing] which bring in lots of money from the State and Federal Govt because it causes lots of
crime, destroys lots of families. The stated reason to ban smoking in multi-unit buildings is
discriminatory and the stated reasons do not wash for banning it in this area. but there are some on
City Council who certainly don't mind discriminating against one segment of the population for no
good reason!
3/14/2015 5:51 PM
Smoking indoors is harmful to everyone exposed to it.
3/14/2015 4:52 PM
Definitely no smoking outside within 100 feet of any unit. Inside smoking must be done with windows
closed; okay to exhaust the smoke with a fan up out the roof.
3/14/2015 4:20 PM
This will be an emotive issue for many and it's brave that this is being proposed; especially around
an individual's home. However it's necessary and I support the initiative.
3/14/2015 4:08 PM
Many smokers in my Oak Creek Apts. do not wish to smoke inside. Hence they smoke on the
balconies and terraces causing that smoke to be "inhaled" into other apartments via the heating / AC
and windows. It is awful! So we get their smoke inside our units.
3/14/2015 2:32 PM
This questionnaire is very poorly worded and the answers would lack statistical significance. Certain
of the questions should best be answered with checkboxes. Others are not clear on whether they
are asking whether we are currently bothered by smoke, or whether we would be if smoke were
present.
3/14/2015 12:50 PM
I believe Palo Alto should be a Non-smoking city
3/14/2015 12:34 PM
Second hand smoking is not to tolerate.
3/14/2015 12:17 PM
I think this is the best idea ever. I don't have issue with it now, but I've had issues in the past in other
places that I've lived. Smoking kills, and so does 2nd hand smoking. It just shouldn't be allowed
anywhere that it can get into anyone else's person space.
3/14/2015 10:55 AM
While I am not an habitual smoker, I do (on very rare occasion) enjoy a cigar or pipe tobacco. I
understand the desire to regulate this filthy habit, but the proposed ordinance is an infringement on
people's individual rights. The basis of "second-hand smoke" is [shaky] at best, and certainly not
enough to stand up to free rights of the people in this Country. While I would never file suit against
the City if this ordinance were enacted, I am certain that someone will ... and they will have very
solid footing for their case.
3/14/2015 10:00 AM
I'm sick of the cigarette butts that litter the property.
3/14/2015 9:36 AM
I am support of restricting smoking in multi-unit dwellings.
3/14/2015 8:49 AM
Concern for safety when smokers would break the ban and therefore increase danger such as
potential for fire
3/14/2015 8:29 AM
Recently, our apartment building and the apartment building next door became non smoking. I don't
think there are smokers in our building, but there are occasionally visiting smokers walking around
the property, in spite of the manager firmly prohibiting any smoking anywhere by anyone on the
property. I do like the smoking ban as assurance that I will neve[r] have to tolerate sharing walls with
a smoker. But, there has been an unintended consequence. The building next door has several
tenants who smoke. Since they can no longer smoke in their apartments, they smoke on the
sidewalk in front of both of our buildings. Some walk back and forth along the border between their
property and ours. I have talked to their manager about this, to very little avail. My unit is bordered
by their property and the sidewalk. So, the smoke from people smoking on the sidewalk in front of
our building (and the best tree for smoking in the shade on the street is directly in front of my unit)
comes into my unit. It is bad enough that last summer I could not open my windows without the
place reeking of smoke. I had to shell out for [a] room air conditioner and the bills to run it. Thus,
policies meant to decrease smoke exposure, in my case, have increased it. Before, most of these
people would have been smoking inside their own units in the building next door and not getting their
smoke in my home! I would love to see non smoking ordinances expanded to not only prohibit
smoking in multi unit housing and on the grounds of multi unit housing, but to prohibit it within 25 feet
of any multi unit structure, even if that includes the sidewalk and street.
3/14/2015 12:11 AM
Currently, none of my neighbors smoke. However, I am concerned that in the future, smoke from
adjoining units might exacerbate respiratory conditions. Further, infants and small children are
particularly susceptible to the ill effects of cigarette and cigar smoke.
3/13/2015 8:06 PM
Instead of wasting our money on smoking survey, I would do the survey why 99% of landlords does
not allow cats to live in apartments. This should be the priority, and not smoking.
3/13/2015 7:46 PM
Living in a building where outdoor smoking is banned on building property, I can say that being
forced to smoke inside the apartment, where it is allowed, to be much more of a health hazard than
simply allowing people to smoke outside in the first place.
3/13/2015 6:56 PM
Smoking on porches outside rises to apartments above It should be banned on porches as well as
inside apartments
3/13/2015 6:24 PM
The smoke bothers me that comes from the ARCO next to our building, so this ban would not
change the smoke coming into my apartment.
3/13/2015 3:44 PM
As a parent with elementary age children, I am deeply concerned about the amount of second hand
smoke (and cigarette trash) we are exposed to at our building. The stairwells, elevators and parking
garage are smoke traps that my children have to pass through daily to get to and from our home.
3/13/2015 2:59 PM
it's horrible especially when people, to keep away from rain or elements, smoke in enclosed outdoor
areas where the smoke lingers - please pleas[e] please pass and ENFORCE an ordinance - horrible
for my health, as well as my children's & pet's
3/13/2015 2:12 PM
i definitely think that smoking should be restricted. It is a health hazard.
3/13/2015 1:45 PM
I'm very much in support of restricting smoking in multi-family buildings. It may save lives, and it
would certainly improve lives of children and people with asthma and allergies.
3/13/2015 1:37 PM
At Loma Verde Village we have 39 units but no smoking restrictions. Smokers come outside their
unit to smoke in the common areas and leave cigaret[te] and cigar butts.
3/13/2015 12:13 PM
Often people smoke on the sidewalk outside our building and the smoke rises up and surrounds me
and my pregnant wife :(
3/13/2015 11:25 AM
I don't smoke but I don't support this. I think it is a punitive burden on people who live in multi-unit
dwellings.
3/13/2015 10:57 AM
I would not support smoking restrictions inside anybody's home, whether it is a house or an
apartment.
3/13/2015 9:27 AM
Limiting smoking to outside areas only is not an ideal solution. Smoke gets carried inside by people
smoking right outside the door. It makes entry and exit a dangerous place for me and my children,
when we have to hold our breaths and run past the smokers. Designated smoking areas outside
away from entrances and exits is more respectful to other residents.
3/13/2015 8:53 AM
No - I strongly support it. Our neighbor upstairs smokes pot and tobacco both on his patio and in his
apartment. We often have to close the windows because the smell is so strong. As someone who
has never smoked, I do not want to be exposed to his secondhand smoke, which is a known cancer
risk. We also live in a complex with a large number of small children and I strongly believe they
should not be exposed to this disgusting habit.
3/13/2015 8:30 AM
I think people should be able to smoke in and outside of their home (on their property / balcony)
3/13/2015 8:24 AM
I had a neighbor in the apartment next to ours who were heavy smokers and I got the second hand
smoke into our apartment; also it was heavy in the foyer area next to our apartment. I am allergic to
smoke and it cause really both allergic problems and unpleasant smell. I complained several times
to the apartment management but they said that because of the city ordinance they cannot ask the
tenants not to smoke. This continued for 1.5 yrs ....
3/13/2015 8:12 AM
Thank you for considering this policy change--it is VERY MUCH needed. I am an assistant professor
at Stanford, and live at Stanford west apartments. I find it absolutely ludicrous and disgusting that
smoke from adjacent units is entering my home. This housing complex is full of children, and in 2015
there is just no place for second hand smoke in multi-unit housing. Again, THANK YOU for adopting
these changes!!
3/13/2015 7:30 AM
I do not support any citywide ban on smoking for multi-family buildings. It should be the choice and
policy of each individual building owner.
3/12/2015 11:53 PM
Please prohibit smoking in common parking areas! Our bedrooms overlook the parking lot and when
residents smoke there, it wafts up into our windows. We cannot leave windows closed at all times,
and by the time we smell smoke, it's too late. Very distressing especially to have our infant and
preschooler exposed to second hand smoke in our own home. Thank you!
3/12/2015 11:43 PM
Smoking is nasty and unhealthy not only for smokers, but also for those around them. Too many
smokers are inconsiderate, and most are litterbugs. In and around multi-family buildings, smoking is
a nuisance and a fire hazard.
3/12/2015 11:31 PM
Please actually enforce these bans if they go into place! I lobbied my landlord to get a ban on our
complex and it went into place last year. My upstairs neighbors smoking was irritating my allergies
and the ash that was always on my balcony was gross.
3/12/2015 11:23 PM
The owner banned smoking last year after discovering that smoke-laden air from one apartment
would flow through the bathroom vents to other apartments.
3/12/2015 11:22 PM
Please ban smoking in all common areas. We have small children that get exposed to second hand
smoke from our neighbors, and it is horrible.
3/12/2015 10:50 PM
I am not a smoker, and hate smoking. However, I am not in favor of banning smoking in peoples
apartments. Let the landlords decide if they will allow smokers in their units. I also think smoking
should be allowed on the balcony of multi-family buildings. I have friends who smoke and allow them
to smoke on my balcony when they visit. I am in favor of not allowing smoking in common indoor
areas, but I have never had a problem in my unit. I think there is no need to add regulations in this
area.
3/12/2015 10:02 PM
Presently, smokers in this complex go outside the common areas to smoke.An ordinance might help
keep it this way in the future.
3/12/2015 9:23 PM
Please pass this ordinance b/c my children and I get sick from the second hand smoke and should
not be subject to it.
3/12/2015 9:15 PM
2nd hand smoking is very bad to other people. It should be restricted in all area.
3/12/2015 8:35 PM
With the length of time tenants stay in rentals here there should NOT be ordinances restricting
smoking in their unit.
3/12/2015 8:15 PM
I have neighbors who smoke and the smoke goes into my apt.
3/12/2015 7:50 PM
The neighbor below our unit is a chain smoker and is home all day. We cannot go outside onto our
deck because of the smoke and in the summer we can't leave our windows open. The smoke carries
through the common areas as well. This ordinance is long overdue!
3/12/2015 7:44 PM
People deserve having smoking places (let them be designated) regardless whether they can afford
single family home or not!
3/12/2015 7:30 PM
Smoking is permitted here outside only in a tenant's private patio or on their deck, and has not
presented any issues. No smoking is allowed inside any unit. Guest have gatherings here and there.
Sometimes a few guests do smoke a cigarette or two out on their patio/decks. Not allowing this
option would potentially have tenants move. Our tenant retention rate is around 7-10 years, at a
minimum. Smoking is not allowed in any common areas, nor around the pool, again only in their
private patios (yards) or decks.
3/12/2015 6:10 PM
Yes, it's very troubling that smoking is currently allowed in our building as we have young children
who are exposed to the smoke. People commonly smoke on their balconies which comes in through
our open windows, and there is also some shared internal ventilation in the building which brings in
smoke.
3/12/2015 5:42 PM
The opposed ban obviously overlooks the increasing widespread use of marijuana that, for example,
my husband and I reported multiple times to our landlord but went unheard because of "fear of
discrimination" towards smokers. Marijuana smell and fumes go through shared ventilation systems
in the same way tobacco does. Unfortunately, given the current socio-political climate, not only is
marijuana's use tolerated at recreational level, but also encouraged by an obvious lack/disregard of
regulations, even though marijuana produces second-hand smoke just like tobacco does, and
research is still debating over the safety of marijuana exposure on growing brains such as children's.
As the daughter of smoking parents, and mother of two young children, I consider this gap in the
legislation an example of blatant discrimination towards those who do not want to have [to] breath[e]
in smoke from others, regardless of the substance(s) used to inhale.
3/12/2015 5:28 PM
I think it's a great idea to restrict smoking. We are fortunate that very few people in our complex
smoke. For new renters with health issues such as asthma, it would give peace of mind to know that
the previous tenants didn't smoke in the apartment.
3/12/2015 4:55 PM
Second hand smoke is hazardous and should be banned from multi unit dwellings including condos.
3/12/2015 4:42 PM
It's a health issue. We have owners who choose to smoke outside and we have a place for them.
3/12/2015 4:27 PM
I urge the city to ban smoking in multi-family units, to protect the health and quality of life of
nonsmokers. In my family's case, we are unable to open many windows, because if we do, smoke
pours in from a downstairs unit where the resident smokes. We live in a unit with no air conditioning
and big windows, so the unit gets quite hot. It is a real hardship when we can't open windows, even
though the inside temperature in our apartment is 85, 90, or 95 degrees.
3/12/2015 4:06 PM
People in building next to us smoke and all the smoke comes in our unit, so even tho[ugh] we aren't
smoking we get the second hand smoke which is very nasty.
3/12/2015 3:27 PM
How on Earth can it be enforced. Neighbor against neighbor, how will police determine if someone is
smoking in their own apartment? What about Medical Marijuana, will it be allowed since it's medical?
Lawsuits will happen.
3/12/2015 3:16 PM
I would be highly in favor of a ban on smoking in all multi-family residences, without any "grand-
fathering" clauses.
3/12/2015 2:40 PM
The person on the phone said that there is smoking available in the common areas but has never
witnessed anyone using it.
3/12/2015 2:02 PM
none
3/12/2015 1:56 PM
The person on the phone said that it is a great idea to restrict smoking and the time has come.
3/12/2015 1:55 PM
The person on the phone said that people are smoking on both sides of her for 20 years. She has to
close her windows as a result. She has bronchitis and is in poor health. She thinks that people
should at least smoke inside or stop smoking if requested. She said that people in apartments need
to find places where no one can be hurt by their smoking.
3/12/2015 1:53 PM
The person on the phone said that even though smoking is prohibited, people smoke in the common
areas.
3/12/2015 1:35 PM
The person on the phone said that she lives at Oak Creek Apts.
3/12/2015 1:32 PM
The person on the phone said that there are two heavy smokers who live next to her and it bothers
her a lot. She lives in low-income housing and there is nowhere else for her to go to get away from
the smoke. The person smokes 24 hours a day. She previously had a neighbor who had to move out
because there was smoke everywhere. She is in poor health and is not able to talk and breathe
normally because of the smoke. She also would like to say on behalf of her 5 friends who are 80-90
years old, there is no place for them to breathe anymore away from the smoke. She would like the
City of Palo Alto to send a letter to her apartment building at Palo Alto Gardens on 650 Antonio Road
to tell them to stop allowing smoking.
3/12/2015 1:30 PM
The proposed ban will disproportionately affect working-class people who tend to live in multi-unit
apartments, as opposed to people who can afford houses in the overpriced housing market of Palo
Alto. Furthermore, there is a huge difference between direct inhalation of second-hand smoke and
simply being able to smell smoke from an adjacent unit--while it may be unpleasant, smelling smoke
causes no serious health effects. The proposed ban would encroach upon rights that Americans
should have in the privacy of their own homes, whether those homes are simple apartment units or
individual houses. Finally, a person who thinks that it is ok to litter cigarette butts, rather than place
them in dedicated receptacles, is probably the same person who will leave behind gum wrappers,
beer bottles, and other trash, so the environmental argument for this ban is just as weak as the
health argument--if you want to address littering, then enforce littering laws, not smoking bans.
3/12/2015 1:26 PM
The person on the phone thinks that there should be no restrictive laws on smoking or else he has to
move.
3/12/2015 1:20 PM
The person on the phone said that condos should have their own set of bylaws for smoking to follow.
She thinks that the condos should decide for themselves what kind of smoking restrictions they
should have.
3/12/2015 1:19 PM
Not sure why Palo Alto is spending time on this. Would like to see better traffic enforcement, fix the
roads and enact an office cap, for starters.
3/12/2015 12:00 PM
the smoke easily wafts into the windows and sliding glass doors, making the children and I cough.
3/12/2015 10:42 AM
2nd hand smoke is such a health hazard. It would be great to ban smoking in multi-unit buildings as
it affects everyone in the nearby vicinity of the smoker.
3/12/2015 10:09 AM
Smoking is a serious public health concern. Quality of life at home and one's quiet enjoyment of
property in a multi-family building is significantly negatively impacted where smoking is permitted. A
ban on smoking in multi-family buildings would encourage a healthy lifestyle and community as well
as allow citizens to enjoy their time at home without exposure to offensive and toxic smells.
3/12/2015 10:08 AM
Unfortunately it is impossible to restrict the movement of smoke from one area to another in multi-
unit dwellings--and the tendency of fellow building residents to smoke on their balconies means that
I must close my windows and balcony door to avoid smelling smoke in my own unit
3/12/2015 10:05 AM
Please ban all smoking from all multi-family buildings including those owned and operated by
Stanford University. I live in Stanford West and while many smokers are considerate and take to the
path furthest from buildings to smoke, others smoke in courtyards or inside houses and the smoke
permeates our unit. We're forced to lock down our doors and windows to prevent smoke from
entering our unit which is particularly frustrating during the warm summer months. We have a small
child and are expecting another. The facts are clear on secondhand smoke. Secondhand Smoke
Causes, cardiovascular disease, lung cancer, SIDS and harms children (Source: CDC, available
online: http://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/data_statistics/fact_sheets/secondhand_smoke/health_effects/).
Stanford University has failed to move forward on a smoke-free campus despite colleges across the
US going smoke free and leaving Stanford behind in health promoting policies and endangering its
staff, faculty and families.
3/12/2015 9:50 AM
Please let people smoke cigarettes and e-cigarettes. I do not want to inconvenience my neighbors
who smoke regularly, but I would encourage them to cut down. It is, however, his or her life and his
or her decision. I am a social/occasional smoker and it is an enjoyable part of my life. I like to smoke
at parties and with friends, or out for a walk by myself. I estimate that I smoke less than 15 cigarettes
per year, and I enjoy them. Those who are addicted smokers should be encouraged to cut back and
given support to do so, not banned from smoking entirely. Discussions of prohibition on smoking
tend to categorize people as addicted smokers or non-smokers. The media does not talk about
drinkers as alcoholics or teetotalers and accepts that social drinking exists. It is a myth that people
cannot be social smokers. I have been a social smoker for over a decade, as have most of my
friends. Why is the conversation about banning cigarettes entirely, instead of talking about smoking
in moderation? Prohibition of alcohol did not work in the last century. Prohibition of smoking will not
work in this one. Many people find smoking [pleasurable]. Many people find drinking [pleasurable].
We are adults. Cigarettes should be sold in smaller packs to support social smoking - it is irritating to
buy a pack of 20 when I only want 1 or 2, and so I have switched to e-cigarettes. If everyone smoked
in moderation, those who are bothered by second-hand smoke would have much less exposure. I do
not support a ban on smoking in multi-unit housing.
3/12/2015 9:46 AM
Will be difficult to enforce particularly with all the international foreign resident population we have
here at Stanford West
3/12/2015 9:34 AM
question 7 doesn't ask if we don't want any restriction as a choice. i do not want the government to
restrict my freedoms.
3/12/2015 9:20 AM
Banning smoking in multi-unit housing moves the smoking out to the street - which worsens the
problem of cigarette butt litter. An effective policy should address this issue.
3/12/2015 9:19 AM
none
3/12/2015 9:08 AM
As a property owner of a condominium unit, it should be my decision whether to smoke or not smoke
inside my home. Let me emphasize the word "home". Owner-occupied homes, including
condominiums, deserve the right to make that decision for themselves.
3/12/2015 9:04 AM
I fully support this initiative but question how it would be enforced. Many landlords in Palo Alto do
little to enforce their own regulations, let alone a city initiative like this one.
3/12/2015 9:03 AM
If an owner wishes to restrict smoking inside a unit, that is fine and their prerogative. Do NOT believe
it is the city's role to determine smoking in a residence.
3/12/2015 8:58 AM
Really hope this passes!
3/12/2015 8:54 AM
I shouldn't have be subjected to unhealthy second-hand smoke due to living in an apartment
building.
3/12/2015 8:42 AM
I think it should be restricted. People in my building smoke on their own balcony or outside, and it
blows in through my windows when they're open.
3/12/2015 8:03 AM
second hand smoke has put me into the hospital on more than one occasion.
3/12/2015 7:34 AM
I currently take both QVAR and Albuterol twice a day for breathing problems and would welcome a
smoking ban on the property I live in and surrounding multi-family complexes. Also, please ban
smoking on the sidewalks and roadways because, for some bizarre reason, people smoke right
outside my unit thinking it's OK because they're outside. Please ban tobacco, vaping, and marijana.
My neighbors in an adjacent building smoke pot in their patio about once a week or so, and that's the
worst for those with breathing problems.
3/12/2015 6:22 AM
I haven't been able to open the doors and windows on my deck because the person below me
constantly smokes, The person does not work and is always at home. Neighbors have tried to
explain how their smoking is bothering them but this person indicates the[re] is no law to prevent
them from doing it. PLease pass the ordinance and do not make exceptions to it. Thank you for
listening.
3/12/2015 6:07 AM
I really hope this is a joke. This proposal falls way outside the city's role in protecting it's citizens'
health and well-being. Even if this were enacted, it would be absolutely meaningless because it is
hopelessly unenforceable and will never deter a regular smoker in the slightest. This is by far the
most absurd thing I have ever heard the city propose.
3/12/2015 2:59 AM
Smoke from neighboring apartment units permeates into adjacent units, even when the windows are
closed. It is a respiratory irritant.
3/12/2015 12:53 AM
Please do this!
3/11/2015 11:55 PM
What about pot-smoking and vaporizers? I think these should be addressed also.
3/11/2015 11:17 PM
Smoke from smoking on unit balconies and courtyards blows into open windows, which is bad for my
health (and our neighbors' asthmatic kids), and there's currently nothing we can do about it but close
our windows and use air conditioning or fans
3/11/2015 10:57 PM
I believe that, when care is taken to ensure others are not disturbed, outdoor smoking does not
constitute such a significant nuisance that it should be banned.
3/11/2015 10:52 PM
questions #3 and #6 I did NOT know the answer to but i was forced to answer so i made up an
answer. You did not provide a DO NOT KNOW choice. I do not know what the rules of my complex
are as it never pertained to me.
3/11/2015 10:48 PM
Let's do it. I am really bothered by the 2nd hand smoke from units and common areas. I often see
the unsightly cigarette butts littering the grounds here at Palo Alto Greenhouse.
3/11/2015 10:17 PM
The multi-unit housing I live in says they do not allow smoking, but it isn't enforced. Neighbors of
mine smoke on their balconies and make it very uncomfortable for me to be on my own balcony, as
the smell of smoke really bothers me. A city-wide ban on smoking may help my landlord enforce
these rules more effectively.
3/11/2015 9:55 PM
I would hate to see the cigarettes end up in the streets/gutters because people have to go out to
public areas to smoke, but even a hint of cigarette smoke nearby/wafting into my windows makes
me incredibly sick - so I would welcome getting rid of it altogether if that was possible...
3/11/2015 9:30 PM
While I'm not a smoker nor is anyone in my unit, I think that it's within one's right to smoke within
their private domicile. The suggested smoking ban is quite different from smoking bans in a public
areas, where there is free circulation of smoke-laden air between the smoker and other members of
the public. This free circulation of air does not exist in a multi-unit building, provided the door of the
smoker's unit is not propped open for extended periods of time while smoking.
3/11/2015 9:12 PM
The proposal is an outrageous violation of property rights.
3/11/2015 9:04 PM
Smoking has a very definitive and severe impact on my quality of life. During warm weather we've
had several days where we can't even open our windows because of smoking outside the unit. In
addition, we have an 18 month old and I find it absolutely disgusting that she needs to be exposed to
smoke when playing outside. In addition, the butts left on the ground are unsightly and I shouldn't
need to see these in the vicinity of where I live.
3/11/2015 9:00 PM
I smoke on my balcony. I had to get an approval to smoke on my balcony from my neighbors and
apartment manager. I think that the choice to allow smoking should remain on the apartment
management and not the city.
3/11/2015 8:42 PM
Cigarette smoke from other units, even when others smoke outside on their decks, wafts into our
unit.
3/11/2015 8:41 PM
I don't want to get second hand smoke, but my biggest concern is that some people walk while
smoking, and it's very dangerous not only for other people but also for children because their
cigarette is at the height of the childrens' faces.
3/11/2015 8:15 PM
Tobacco smoke has never been a problem where I live. Other smoke on the other hand...
3/11/2015 8:12 PM
Include all forms of smoking - not just tobacco - as marijuana legalization appears to be a matter of
time (e.g. many DA's don't enforce portions of statutes now)
3/11/2015 8:11 PM
Even though I rent, I do not support a smoking ban on owner-occupied condo units, especially
allowing grandfathering in. I think that smacks of elitism, excessive personal restriction on those not
wealthy enough to purchase a single-family dwelling here, *and* it will reduce marketability.
3/11/2015 7:48 PM
As long as it does not bother other neighbors, smoking should NOT be banned in multi-family
buildings, apartments, etc.
3/11/2015 7:42 PM
My five-year-old is exposed to second-hand smoke from the downstairs neighbors. When
considering homeowners' rights, don't forget about my right to be smoke-free.
3/11/2015 7:18 PM
It needs to be banned in all residential areas and in parks that are right across the street. The litter is
awful and the noxious fumes are intolerable
3/11/2015 7:13 PM
I am an owner and the Board president in a small, one story condominium in Palo Alto. I live in my
unit. There has never been any concern expressed whatsoever in our association during my roughly
10 years on the board about smoking inside the units. This kind of regulation seems vastly
overreaching to me.
3/11/2015 7:12 PM
I believe that people should have rights to smoke or not smoke in their property. You are going to
legalize a marijuana, and at the same time trying to expand the city's Smoking ban. Please let
people to decide to smoke or not to smoke in their properties.
3/11/2015 7:11 PM
It is unreasonable to create a situation where smokers would not be able to smoke in their own
home. Please not pass this ordinance!
3/11/2015 6:55 PM
Vendors including construction, gardeners, and other service people smoke but are not banned -
should be.
3/11/2015 6:53 PM
We lived for 4 years above an elderly woman who smoked we had a newborn and she would smoke
with window open we worried she would fall asleep with cigarettes lit there was nothing we could do
about her smoking
3/11/2015 6:39 PM
Second-hand smoke is a carcinogen that caused my brother's lung cancer. Non-smokers shouldn't
have to pay the consequences for smokers' poor choices.
3/11/2015 6:35 PM
At Oak Creek, smokers can leave their apt. doors open to air out their smoke into our common
hallways. yuck.
3/11/2015 6:04 PM
No. If people want to smoke it's their right and whether its allowed in the unit itself should be worked
out with the owner of the unit.
3/11/2015 5:59 PM
Please ban smoking inside multi-family buildings and outside of them to a distance of 25 ft. or more.
Although our landlord forbids smoking within our building, tenants who smoke simply go just outside
the building to smoke. The smoke still comes through our open windows and bothers us, but right
now we can't do anything about it because the smokers are technically not within the building or its
grounds when they smoke. It would help if Palo Alto would ban smoking both within multi-family
buildings and also within a large radius around them. It would also help if Palo Alto would enforce
the ban on smoking within 25 ft. of a restaurant - we've had meals ruined by people smoking less
than 25 ft. from restaurant doors and/or patios.
3/11/2015 5:53 PM
I generally support smoking bans in all public places, including apartment buildings.
3/11/2015 5:52 PM
The residents of a multiunit housing have a right to decide their own policy. The City should not
impose rule restricting residents rights in their own homes.
3/11/2015 5:30 PM
I am worried about our health and the health of little ones.
3/11/2015 5:16 PM
i live in a mixed age property that is old, run-down, and has bad ventilation, plumbing, and yet they
allow smoking. They even took away all our rights as Palo Alto residents and aggregated all utility
bills; charging a $3 admin fee to administrate based on a RUBS system because this old property
and profit seeking management (not Gerson Bakar but his managers) can pass costs onto residents.
RUBS of course is based on sq ft allocation irrespective of # of persons (1, 2, 3) in a unit or age of
residents (e.g.: young families with young children & babies). This property on Sand Hill should be
REQUIRED to upgrade their system to a unit by unit actual meter allocation. People dare not
complain - they are shut down. No one listens.
3/11/2015 5:10 PM
My concern is that restricting smoking would not be enforced.
3/11/2015 5:09 PM
I have two small children and hate when people smoke outside our windows because their smoke
comes into our apartment and infringes upon our family's right to breathe clean air.
3/11/2015 4:51 PM
Smoking travels through atriums/lightwells in our condo and forces me, as a nonsmoker, to keep our
windows shut so my daughter doesn't breathe the second hand smoke. So YES, I think it should be
banned.
3/11/2015 4:48 PM
Please do it.
3/11/2015 4:20 PM
We are a condo property. All of our units are individually owned but there is an Association board
that can make rules
3/11/2015 4:12 PM
My low-income privately owned apartment complex allows smoking in units and on patios and
balconies. Neighbors nextdoor and below me smoke at all hours of the day and night, making it
impossible for me to open my windows. Even with my windows closed, some people smoke leaving
their doors open and smoke fills the hallways. Even with all of the windows closed it also spreads
throughout the building through the ventilation system. I have spoken with my neighbors and the
apartment manager. I would suggest that they create a designated smoking area in the parking lot a
fair distance from any doors or windows, or at the very least limit smoking on balconies and patios
that are adjacent to other units. Most of the residents in my building are low income senior citizens,
many with health issues like myself.
3/11/2015 3:52 PM
The person on the phone said that "in bars, schools, etc you cannot smoke, but the one place where
you can't stay away from which is your home you cannot get away from the smoke". As he's gotten
older, smoke really bothers him and it is very bad for his health.
3/11/2015 3:37 PM
I have lived in a unit where my downstairs neighbor smoked and the smoke was perceptible in our
unit as well, and unpleasant.
3/11/2015 3:24 PM
Currently smoking is restricted on the property but some tenants do not respect. I had to leave one
night to get away from smoke. Also smokers from adjacent properties are smoking on sidewalks
adjacent to building, can't walk down the street without getting triggered and needing to use rescue
inhaler.
3/11/2015 3:21 PM
Unfortunately smoke travels and invades even at distances. There's no sure protection from it except
to forbid it.
3/11/2015 3:01 PM
Like the plastic bag ban, this is a welcome ordinance - make good choices for our future!
3/11/2015 2:09 PM
People in adjacent condos throw their butts over the fence into our garden, and their smoke wafts
into ours - disgusting!! We feel invaded.
3/11/2015 12:56 PM
At our condo we allow smoking within units but not in any common area. As a Board Member, I fail
to see how we can enforce a smoking ban inside units. What support would there be from the City?
Already, there are a few smokers you congregate on the public sidewalk in front of our unit and the
City has been unwilling to enforce it's smoking ban there.
3/11/2015 12:19 PM
I'm actually preparing to move out of Palo Alto because the smoking in my complex is so bad.
Unfortunately, my apartment's management has been less than sympathetic to my complaints, and I
doubt this ordinance will be passed in a manner to help me, but it will help whoever moves in after
me. The people who smoke live below me, and so all of the smoke is in the walls and floors of the
apartment and I hate it. I'm considering moving to Mountain View, because they just implemented a
smoking ban similar to this proposed one.
3/11/2015 11:05 AM
Restricting smoking in multi-family buildings is a good next step for Palo Alto
3/9/2015 12:36 PM
County of Santa Clara
Public Health Department
Public Health Administration 976 Lenzen Avenue, 2nd Floor San José, CA 95126 408.792.5040
April 15, 2014
Dear Mayor and City Manager,
The Santa Clara County Public Health Department is committed to creating a healthier community for all residents where they live, work, learn, and play. Santa Clara County has been a leader in protecting
the health of its residents – children and youth in particular – from the devastating consequences
caused by tobacco use. We recognize that Santa Clara County cities are essential and committed
partners in achieving this shared mission and goal for all of our county residents and workforce.
Unfortunately, the rapidly increasing use of electronic smoking devices (commonly referred to as
electronic cigarettes, electronic cigars, electronic cigarillos, electronic pipes, electronic hookahs,
electronic vapes, or vaporizers), threatens to undo much of the social norm change around tobacco use
which has largely resulted from health and tobacco prevention policies like the ones implemented by the County and cities throughout Santa Clara County. Public health advancements could be undermined by the unrestricted use of e-cigarettes, which produce a smoke-like aerosol in public, and
widespread, unrestricted advertising of such products in ways that have been restricted for cigarettes
and other tobacco products for decades. The use of these products presents health hazards to the users
and potentially to bystanders as well. These products are being sold and used in this County but are currently unregulated by the federal government.
Despite the lack of regulation at the federal level, many communities across the United States and
California, including most recently the County of Santa Clara, Morgan Hill, Sunnyvale, and Milpitas,
have moved forward with regulating the use and sale of e-cigarettes in their jurisdictions. On March 25, 2014 the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors amended the County’s No Smoking Policy, prohibiting the use of electronic smoking devices within any enclosed structure owned or leased by the
County, with plans to discuss expanded regulation on the use and sale of e-cigarettes for the
unincorporated areas in May.
In the absence of regulation by the Food and Drug Administration, these products are widely available for purchase in this County. Children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable to the
renormalization of smoking through the use of e-cigarettes. Youth are now witnessing smoking
behaviors in public spaces that have been smoke-free for most, if not all, of their lives. Youth are also
being exposed to e-cigarette advertising on television, something that has been prohibited for decades for traditional tobacco products. The result of all this is that youth are rapidly taking up e-cigarettes. A CDC study showed that in 2011, 4.7% of all high school students had tried e-cigarettes and that in
2012, that number increased to 10.0% of all high school students.
Board of Supervisors: Mike Wasserman, Cindy Chavez, Dave Cortese, Ken Yeager, S. Joseph Simitian County Executive: Jeffrey V. Smith
Attachment B
Given the current lack of regulation and preliminary data demonstrating potential health hazards, the
Public Health Department recommends a precautionary approach in regulating the use of e-cigarettes,
until their safety is conclusively established. The Public Health Department is here to assist cities in
this effort to better understand the issue of electronic cigarettes and to provide data and evidence regarding the rationale for regulation of these products in your community. Additionally, our County
Counsel’s office is available to speak directly with counsel for cities that have any questions or
concerns regarding the legal authority for regulation.
We encourage you to take action on this important public health issue, and reach out to our staff who are available to assist you in your efforts.
If you would like further information or assistance related to the regulation of electronic smoking
devices, please contact Nicole Coxe at the Public Health Department at (408) 793-2745 or
nicole.coxe@phd.sccgov.org.
Sincerely,
Daniel Peddycord, RN, MPA/HA Sara H. Cody, MD
Public Health Director Health Officer
CC: City Council
County of Santa Clara
Public Health Department
Administration
976 Lenzen Avenue, 2nd Floor
San José, CA 95126
408.792.5040
Board of Supervisors: Mike Wasserman, Cindy Chavez, Dave Cortese, Ken Yeager, S. Joseph Simitian
County Executive: Jeffrey V. Smith
The Public Health Department submits the following findings of fact for the Board’s consideration and
adoption in support of regulation of the use and sale of electronic smoking devices.
Ordinance No. NS-625.7 (General Restrictions on the Use of Tobacco Products and Electronic
Smoking Devices) and Ordinance No. NS-625.8 (Restrictions on the Use of Tobacco Products and
Electronic Smoking Devices in Multi-Unit Residences)
1. Electronic smoking devices—commonly known as “electronic cigarettes,” “e-cigarettes,” “e-cigars,” “e-cigarillos,” “e-pipes,” “e-hookahs,” or “electronic nicotine delivery systems”—are
electronic and/or battery-operated devices designed to deliver nicotine, flavor, and/or other
substances in an aerosol or vapor form inhaled by the user.i
2. Electronic smoking devices are often designed to look like and be used in the same manner as conventional cigarettes.ii 3. Electronic smoking devices often mimic conventional tobacco products in shape, size, and
color, with the user exhaling a smoke-like vapor similar in appearance to the exhaled smoke
from cigarettes and other conventional tobacco products.iii
4. Between 2010 and 2011, adult awareness of electronic smoking devices increased significantly, and the percentage of adults in the United States who had ever used an electronic cigarette approximately doubled.iv
5. Use of electronic smoking devices by youth has increased significantly in recent years, as
evidenced by findings from the 2011 and 2012 National Youth Tobacco Surveyv:
Between 2011 and 2012, the percentage of all students in grades 6 to 12 who had ever tried an electronic smoking device doubled from 3.3% to 6.8%. 9.3 percent of these
students reported in 2012 that they had never smoked conventional cigarettes.
Between 2011 and 2012, the percentage of all high school students who had ever tried
an electronic smoking device more than doubled from 4.7% to 10.0%.
7.2 percent of these students reported in 2012 that they had never smoked conventional
cigarettes.
6. The Surgeon General has found that the chemical nicotine is a powerful pharmacologic agent
that acts in the brain and throughout the body, is highly addictive, and can cause acute toxicity. Nicotine adversely affects both maternal and fetal health during pregnancy and contributes to
adverse outcomes such as preterm delivery and stillbirth; exposure in during fetal development
has lasting adverse consequences for brain development. In addition, “the evidence is
suggestive that nicotine exposure during adolescence, a critical window for brain development,
may have lasting adverse consequences for brain development.”vi 7. The immediate adverse physiologic effects from short-term use of electronic cigarettes are
similar to some of the effects seen with tobacco smoke.vii
8. Nicotine is particularly hazardous to children, young people, pregnant women, nursing
mothers, people with heart conditions and the elderly.viii
9. Use of electronic smoking devices, including the refillable nicotine cartridges, can pose a risk
for nicotine poisoning (e.g., if a child of 30 kilograms of weight swallows the contents of a nicotine cartridge of 24 milligrams, this could cause acute nicotine poisoning that most likely would result in death).ix
10. A CDC study found the number of calls to poison centers involving e-cigarettes or the nicotine
liquids used in e-cigarettes rose from one per month in September 2010 to 215 per month in
February 2014.x The study also found:
More than half (51.1 percent) of the calls to poison centers due to electronic smoking
devices involved young children 5 years and under, and about 42 percent of the calls
involved people age 20 and older.
The number of calls per month involving conventional cigarettes did not show a similar increase during the same time period.
11. Poisoning from conventional cigarettes is generally due to young children eating them.
Poisoning related to electronic smoking devices involves the liquid containing nicotine used in
the devices and can occur in three ways: by ingestion, inhalation or absorption through the skin
or eyes.xi 12. Because there is little control or regulation of electronic smoking devices products, the amount
of nicotine inhaled with each “puff” may vary substantially, and testing of sample cartridges
found that some labeled as nicotine-free in fact had low levels of nicotine.xii
13. A study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that electronic smoking device
users get as much nicotine from electronic smoking devices as smokers usually get from tobacco cigarettes.xiii
14. Electronic smoking devices have been marketed as smoking cessation devices and as safer
alternatives to traditional tobacco productsxiv, but studies on electronic smoking devices’
emissions and cartridge contents have found a number of dangerous substances including:
Chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, lead, nickel, and chromium;xv,xvi,xvii
Fine particulate matter (PM2.5), acrolein, tin, toluene, and aluminumxviii, xix,xx—which are
associated with a range of negative health effects such as skin, eye, and respiratory irritationxxi; neurological effects, developmental and reproductive effectsxxii; and even premature death from heart attacks and stroke.xxiii
15. Studies have shown that there are high levels of dual use among users of electronic smoking
devices and conventional cigarettes.xxiv,xxv,xxvi, xxvii
16. Neither federal nor state law requires that electronic smoking devices carry health warnings comparable to conventional cigarettes nor FDA-approved nicotine replacement products.xxviii 17. Studies on electronic smoking devices have also found inconsistent labeling of nicotine levels
in electronic smoking device products.xxix,xxx
18. Over 400 brands of electronic smoking devices exist on the marketxxxi, but clinical studies
about the safety and efficacy of these products have not been submitted to the FDA. For this reason, consumers currently have no way of knowingxxxii:
Whether electronic smoking devices are safe for their intended use;
What types or concentrations of potentially harmful chemicals the products contain;
and
What dose of nicotine the products deliver.
19. The World Health Organization has strongly advised consumers against the use of electronic
smoking devices until they are “deemed safe and effective and of acceptable quality by a
competent national regulatory body.”xxxiii
20. The World Medical Association has determined that electronic smoking devices “are not comparable to scientifically-proven methods of smoking cessation” and that “neither their value as therapeutic aids for smoking cessation nor their safety as cigarette replacements is
established.”xxxiv
21. Exposure to fine and ultrafine particles may exacerbate respiratory ailments like asthma, and
constrict arteries which could trigger a heart attack.xxxv 22. Chemicals identified in electronic smoking device aerosol also appear on California’s Proposition 65 list of carcinogens and reproductive toxins, also known as the Safe Drinking
Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986. The compounds that have already been identified
in electronic smoking device aerosol include: Acetaldehyde, Cadmium, Formaldehyde, Lead,
Nickel, Nicotine, N-Nitrosonornicotine, and Toluene.xxxvi 23. Electronic smoking devices contain and emit propylene glycol, a chemical that is used as a base in electronic smoking device solution and is one of the primary components in the aerosol
emitted by electronic smoking devices.xxxvii
24. Even though propylene glycol is FDA approved for use in some products, the inhalation of
vaporized nicotine in propylene glycol is not. Some studies show that heating propylene glycol changes its chemical composition, producing small amounts of propylene oxide, a known carcinogen.xxxviii
25. One study found metals in electronic smoking device aerosol, including chromium, nickel, and
tin nanoparticles.xxxix
26. FDA scientists found detectable levels of carcinogenic tobacco-specific nitrosamines in electronic smoking device aerosol.xl 27. People exposed to electronic smoking device aerosol absorb nicotine (measured as cotinine),
with one study showing levels comparable to passive smokers.xli
28. In the case of e-cigarettes, the solvent of the liquids may remain on available surfaces and be a
source for contamination for non-users of e-cigarettes. The accidental spilling of e-cigarette liquids can also lead to unintended uptake of nicotine by skin permeation – an effect that is intentionally used for nicotine patches.xlii
29. More than one study has concluded that use of electronic smoking devices may result in
secondhand exposure to emissions.xliii,xliv,xlv Therefore, the adverse health effects of
secondhand exposure to aerosol from electronic smoking devices cannot be excluded as a possibility. 30. The State of California’s Tobacco Education and Research Oversight Committee (TEROC)
“opposes the use of electronic smoking devices in all areas where other tobacco products are
banned.”xlvi
31. An April 2014 Congressional Report investigating the marketing practices of nine of the
largest electronic cigarette manufacturers, found the followingxlvii:
All nine of the companies used various marketing practices to appeal to youth;
Six electronic smoking device companies market electronic smoking devices in flavors
that could appeal to children and teens, with flavors like Cherry Crush, Chocolate Treat, Peachy Keen, and Grape Mint;
These practices, many of which were self-reported by the companies, include
sponsoring youth-oriented events such as music festivals, and handing out free product
samples at as many as 348 events between 2012-2013. 32. One study examining the marketing claims featured on 59 single brand electronic smoking device retail websites that were online in 2012 found the followingxlviii:
95% of websites made health benefit claims such as statements about the absence of
“tar” or “carcinogens” in the products;
22% of websites featured pictorial and video representations of doctors;
88% of websites made statements that electronic smoking devices can be smoked
anywhere; and
71% of websites made statements that they can be used to circumvent smoke-free laws. 33. A study published in the Journal of Environmental and Public Health suggests that electronic
smoking devices and other emerging tobacco products “may have the capacity to ‘re-
normalize’ tobacco use in a demographic that has had significant denormalization of tobacco
use previously.”xlix
34. The use of electronic smoking devices in smokefree locations threatens to undermine compliance with smoking regulations and reverse the progress that has been made in
establishing a social norm that smoking is not permitted in public places and places of
employment.l
35. Dozens of local jurisdictions within California regulate the use of electronic smoking devices
in specific locations.li 36. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has proposed regulations on electronic cigarettes
based on an extensive set of findings, hereby incorporated by reference, including but not
limited to findings about the addictive nature of nicotine, the impact of nicotine on youth and
young adults, the potential health risks of e-cigarettes, and consumer confusion and
misinformation about e-cigarettes.lii
Ordinance No. NS-300.874 (Permits for Retailers of Tobacco Products and/or Electronic Smoking
Devices)
1. The failure of retailers to comply with laws concerning tobacco products and electronic
smoking devices, particularly the sale of such products to minors, threatens the health, safety
and welfare of the residents of the County. 2. A local permitting system for retailers of tobacco products and/or electronic smoking devices
is appropriate to ensure that retailers comply with all applicable laws and business standards of
the County and to protect the health, safety and welfare of the residents of the County.
3. The California Legislature has recognized the danger of electronic smoking devices by
prohibiting the sale or furnishing of electronic cigarettes to minors (Health and Safety Code Section 119405). However, this law does not prohibit self-service displays of electronic
smoking devices in stores, which is the law for traditional tobacco products.
4. A requirement for face-to-face transactions (i.e., no vending machines sales or self-service
displays) are a proven strategy for reducing minors’ access to tobacco products, as they require
assistance from the store merchant, and prevent shoplifting of tobacco products.liii,liv
5. The California Tobacco Control Program’s “Healthy Stores for a Healthy Community”
tobacco retailer observation survey, conducted in 2013 throughout California, including Santa
Clara County, found the following:
The number of tobacco retailers selling electronic smoking devices in California has quadrupled in just two years (11% in 2011 to more than 45% in 2013, which is almost
16,500 stores);lv
As of July 2013, 47% of tobacco retailers in the County are also selling electronic
smoking devices (approximately 677 stores across the county), and that number is predicted to be even higher now given the growing market for these products; lvi and
Nearly 20% of tobacco retailers selling electronic smoking devices in the County had
electronic smoking devices on display in locations where youth are likely to be exposed
to the products, such as near candy, ice cream, and slushie machines.lvii 6. Use of electronic smoking devices by minors has increased significantly in recent years, as
evidenced by findings from the 2011 and 2012 National Youth Tobacco Surveylviii:
Between 2011 and 2012, the percentage of all students in grades 6 to 12 who had ever
tried an electronic smoking device doubled from 3.3% to 6.8%. 9.3 percent of these
students reported in 2012 that they had never smoked conventional cigarettes.
Between 2011 and 2012, the percentage of all high school students who had ever tried
an electronic smoking device more than doubled from 4.7% to 10.0%.
7.2 percent of these students reported in 2012 that they had never smoked conventional cigarettes. 7. Both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the World Medical Association have
expressed concern that electronic cigarettes can increase nicotine addiction among young
people and lead young people to try other tobacco products, including conventional
cigarettes.lix,lx 8. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has proposed regulations on electronic cigarettes based on an extensive set of findings, hereby incorporated by reference, including but not
limited to findings about the addictive nature of nicotine; the impact of nicotine on youth and
young adults; the potential health risks of e-cigarettes; consumer confusion and misinformation
about e-cigarettes; and the need for vending machine restrictions, health warnings and other regulations.lxi 9. The Surgeon General has found that the chemical nicotine is a powerful pharmacologic agent
that acts in the brain and throughout the body, is highly addictive, and can cause acute toxicity.
Nicotine adversely affects both maternal and fetal health during pregnancy and contributes to
adverse outcomes such as preterm delivery and stillbirth; exposure in during fetal development has lasting adverse consequences for brain development. In addition, “the evidence is suggestive that nicotine exposure during adolescence, a critical window for brain development,
may have lasting adverse consequences for brain development.”lxii
10. The immediate adverse physiologic effects from short-term use of electronic cigarettes are
similar to some of the effects seen with tobacco smoke.lxiii 11. Nicotine is particularly hazardous to children, young people, pregnant women, nursing mothers, people with heart conditions and the elderly.lxiv
12. Use of electronic smoking devices, including the refillable nicotine cartridges, can pose a risk
for nicotine poisoning (i.e. if a child of 30 Kilos of weight swallows the contents of a nicotine
cartridge of 24 mg this could cause acute nicotine poisoning that most likely would cause death).lxv
13. A CDC study found the number of calls to poison centers involving e-cigarettes or the nicotine
liquids used in e-cigarettes rose from one per month in September 2010 to 215 per month in
February 2014.lxvi The study also found:
More than half (51.1 percent) of the calls to poison centers due to electronic smoking devices involved young children 5 years and under, and about 42 percent of the poison
calls involved people age 20 and older.
The number of calls per month involving conventional cigarettes did not show a similar
increase during the same time period. 14. Poisoning from conventional cigarettes is generally due to young children eating them.
Poisoning related to electronic smoking devices involves the liquid containing nicotine used in
the devices and can occur in three ways: by ingestion, inhalation or absorption through the skin
or eyes.lxvii
15. State law explicitly permits cities and counties to enact local ordinances regulating the distribution of electronic cigarettes in a manner that is more restrictive than state law, to the
extent not otherwise prohibited by federal law. (Health and Saf. Code, § 119405, subd. (d).)
16. An April 2014 Congressional Report investigating the marketing practices of nine of the
largest electronic cigarette manufacturers, found the followinglxviii:
a. All nine of the companies were using various marketing practices to appeal to youth; b. Six electronic smoking device companies market electronic smoking devices in flavors
that could appeal to children and teens, with flavors like Cherry Crush, Chocolate
Treat, Peachy Keen, and Grape Mint;
c. These practices, many of which were self-reported by the companies, include
sponsoring youth-oriented events such as music festivals, and handing out free product samples at as many as 348 events between 2012-2013.
17. Dozens of cities and counties in California have passed retailer licensing ordinances in an
effort to stop minors from accessing tobacco products and electronic smoking devices.lxix
18. A requirement for a retailer permit will not unduly burden legitimate business activities of
retailers who sell or distribute tobacco products or electronic smoking devices to adults but will allow the County to regulate the operation of lawful businesses to discourage violations of
federal, state and local laws related to tobacco products and electronic smoking devices.
19. The County has a substantial interest in promoting compliance with federal, state and local
laws intended to regulate sales and use of tobacco products and electronic smoking devices; in
discouraging the illegal purchase of tobacco products and electronic smoking devices by minors; in promoting compliance with laws prohibiting sales of tobacco products and
electronic smoking devices to minors; and in protecting children from being lured into illegal
activity through the misconduct of adults.
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electronic cigarettes," Tobacco Control, March 6, 2013.
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High School Students - United States, 2011- 2012.” Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR). 62(35):729–730. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6235a6.htm. lix U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2009). FDA and Public Health Experts Warn about Electronic Cigarettes. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/newsevents/newsroom/pressannouncements/ucm173222.htm. lx World Medical Association. (2012). Statement on Electronic Cigarettes and Other Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems. Available at: www.wma.net/en/30publications/10policies/e19/index.html.pdf?print-media-type&footer-
right=[page]/[toPage] lxi U.S. Food and Drug Administration. “FDA proposes to extend its tobacco authority to additional tobacco products,
including e-cigarettes.” April 24, 2014. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm394667.htm lxii The Health Consequences of Smoking: Nicotine Addiction, a report of the Surgeon General (1988), available at http://profiles.nlm.nih.gov/ps/access/NNBBZD.pdf lxiii Vardavas CI, Anagnostopoulos N, Kougias M, Evangelopoulou V, Connolly GN, Behrakis PJK. Short-term Pulmonary Effects of Using an Electronic Cigarette. CHEST. 2012;141(6):1400-1406. lxiv World Health Organization. Statement: Questions and answers on electronic cigarettes or electronic nicotine delivery systems, July 2013. Available at: http://www.who.int/tobacco/communications/statements/eletronic_cigarettes/en/ lxv World Health Organization. Statement: Questions and answers on electronic cigarettes or electronic nicotine delivery systems, July 2013. Available at: http://www.who.int/tobacco/communications/statements/eletronic_cigarettes/en/ lxvi Chatham-Stephens, K, Law, R, Taylor, E, et al. (April 2014). “Notes from the Field: Calls to Poison Centers for Exposures to Electronic Cigarettes — United States, September 2010–February 2014” Morbidity and Mortality Weekly
Report lxvii CDC, April 3, 2014 Press Release: “New CDC study finds increase in e-cigarette-related calls to poison centers”.
Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2014/p0403-e-cigarette-poison.html lxviii U.S. Congress, Senate and House of Representatives Report. “Gateway to Addictions?: A survey of popular electronic
cigarette manufacturers and targeted marketing to youth. April 2014. Available at: http://democrats.energycommerce.house.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Report-E-Cigarettes-Youth-Marketing-
Gateway-To-Addiction-2014-4-14.pdf
lxix American Lung Association in California, the Center for Tobacco Policy and Organizing. (2013). Tobacco Retailer
Licensing and Electronic Cigarettes. Available at: http://center4tobaccopolicy.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/E-cigarettes-in-TRL-8.9.13.pdf
County of Santa Clara
Public Health Department
Administration
976 Lenzen Avenue, 2nd Floor
San José, CA 95126
408.792.5040
Board of Supervisors: Mike Wasserman, Cindy Chavez, Dave Cortese, Ken Yeager, S. Joseph Simitian
County Executive: Jeffrey V. Smith
August 21, 2015
Dear Mayor and City Manager,
Re: Support for Increasing the Minimum Age for Purchase of Tobacco to 21
In June 2015, the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors took action to reduce tobacco use among
youth and young adults by increasing the minimum age for the purchase of tobacco from 18 to 21
years in the unincorporated areas of the County. Our ordinance included electronic cigarettes in our
definition of tobacco product. Santa Clara County has been a leader in protecting the health of its residents – children and youth in particular – from the devastating consequences of tobacco use. We
recognize that all of the cities within Santa Clara County are essential partners in reducing tobacco use
among youth and young adults and we know that you share our goal of improving health for everyone
who lives or works in our county. I am writing to strongly encourage you to consider implementing
similar measures within your city to maximize the public health impact for all of our county residents, and to offer our help in doing so.
Despite the tremendous progress that has been made in reducing premature death and disease from
tobacco use, the decline in youth smoking has slowed over the last decade. Youth smoking rates in
Santa Clara County remain at 8%, the same as in 2001, and similar to the national trend for youth. Additionally, the rapid uptake of electronic cigarette use by youth is of great public health concern.
We know that the younger a person is when they first try tobacco, the more likely they will be to get
hooked and the more difficult it will be for them to ever quit smoking. It is estimated that 90% of
tobacco users start before the age of 21; roughly 80% first try tobacco before age 18; and 75 percent of teen smokers continue into their adult years. A recent report by the Institute of Medicine predicts that
raising the minimum age for the sale of tobacco products to 21 will, over time, reduce the smoking
rate by about 12% and smoking-related deaths by 10%. By making it harder for teens and young adults
ages 18 – 21 to get access to tobacco, we are preventing more lifetime smokers, thereby reducing
future health care costs and the leading preventable cause of death.
The Public Health Department is able to assist cities to better understand this issue and to provide data,
model policy language, and evidence regarding the rationale for increasing the minimum of age for
purchase of tobacco and electronic cigarettes to 21. Additionally, our County Counsel’s office is
available to speak directly with counsel for cities that have any questions or concerns regarding the legal authority for regulation.
We encourage you to take action on this important public health issue, and reach out to our staff who
are available to assist you in your efforts.
Attachment C
Support for Increasing the Minimum Age for Purchase of Tobacco to 21
Page Two
August 20, 2015
If you would like further information or assistance related to this issue, please contact Nicole Coxe at
the Public Health Department at (408) 793-2745 or nicole.coxe@phd.sccgov.org.
Sincerely,
Sara H. Cody, MD Health Officer and Public Health Director
cc: City Council
City of Palo Alto | City Clerk's Office | 10/28/2015 12:15 PM
Carnahan, David
From:Marissa Fegan <marissafegan@gmail.com>
Sent:Monday, October 26, 2015 5:25 PM
To:Council, City
Subject:Smoking Regulations
Categories:Red Category
To Palo Alto City Council members and all whom it may concern:
My husband and I have recently moved to Palo Alto, and we love it here. It is a great area, with a positive atmosphere.
We currently live in a multi-family apartment complex, and our new neighbors have started smoking in their apartment
and on their balcony which is located right outside of our bedroom window. We are health-conscious individuals, and
thus aware of the terrible effects of second hand smoke. Since the smoking began, I have been experiencing allergy-like
symptoms in the evening and morning hours that I am home and thus susceptible to the smoke. I am currently pregnant, increasing our concern about this second hand smoke coming into our apartment. In a few months our newborn baby
will be living in our bedroom, and thus we are again increasingly anxious and dismayed about the smoking habits of
our neighbors. We have researched the current rules about smoking in Palo Alto, and were pleased to find that potential
rules about smoking in multi-family apartment complexes seem to have been discussed by the Palo Alto City Council.
We would like to add our voices to encourage the committee to pass regulations on the smoking of individuals in and around apartment complexes due to the effects of second-hand smoke on other residents. Please let us know if there is
anything at all that we can do to encourage this regulation being passed promptly, and any rights that we have to protect
our family.
Thank you, Marissa Fegan